Our Team

Wilfred Gichina is the Founding Global Lead and Chairperson of The Gichina Trust, one of Africa’s most forward-looking philanthropic initiatives. As the visionary behind its mission, he is committed to building institutions that unlock human potential, uplift communities, and shape generational futures.

A strategist and convener, Wilfred brings together people, purpose, and resources with a leadership style rooted in international relations, diplomacy, and peacebuilding. He bridges grassroots realities with global thinking, guided by the belief that Africa’s transformation must be led by African visionaries equipped with global tools and timeless values.

From shaping capital projects to forging global partnerships, Wilfred provides strategic oversight across the Trust’s programs. He leads with purpose and conviction, ensuring every initiative reflects the Trust’s enduring commitment to impact, integrity, and legacy.

Richard Arden, OBE, brings decades of global leadership in humanitarian, development, and education sectors to his role as Vice Chairperson of The Gichina Trust. Honoured with the Order of the British Empire for his contributions to social impact, Richard is a seasoned strategist known for influencing policy, forging high-level partnerships, and building resilient communities across Africa and beyond.

At The Gichina Trust, Richard provides strategic oversight and governance leadership, helping steer flagship initiatives such as the STEM Advancement Program (SAP). His global experience working with governments, multilateral agencies, and NGOs ensures that the Trust operates with both community sensitivity and international best practices.

A champion of ethical leadership, Richard reinforces systems of clarity, accountability, and foresight within the Trust. His commitment to mentorship and institutional excellence strengthens the Trust’s long-term vision, supporting a new generation of changemakers and shaping a more inclusive, innovative Africa.

Isabella Mwagodi-Kituri brings over 20 years of experience in media, communications, and governance to her role as Secretary of The Gichina Trust. A respected Swahili editor, translator, and communications strategist, she is known for her ability to turn complex ideas into clear, accessible messages that inspire and mobilise. Her work strengthens the Trust’s voice, systems, and connection to diverse audiences.

With a professional background spanning major institutions such as KTN, K24 TV, and BBC News, Isabella has led high-impact editorial teams and managed public-facing communication across languages and platforms. Her expertise in translating policy and governance content into actionable insights aligns with the Trust’s commitment to inclusion and grassroots empowerment.

As Secretary, Isabella ensures strong governance, meticulous documentation, and effective coordination within the Board. Her precision, institutional memory, and diplomatic communication make her a central pillar in the Trust’s operations, bringing order, clarity, and credibility to everything she touches.

Seraphia Kitema is an accomplished finance and operations executive with nearly 15 years of experience in financial management, compliance, procurement, and consortia governance across Africa and beyond. She brings precision, systems thinking, and proven leadership to her role as Treasurer of The Gichina Trust, drawing from her work in some of the region’s most complex humanitarian and development settings.

With deep expertise in donor relations, contract structuring, and multi-stakeholder partnerships, Seraphia ensures the trust aligns with global compliance standards while pursuing operational excellence. Her understanding of funding ecosystems, including USAID, FCDO, UN agencies, and development banks, positions the Trust to mobilize and manage resources effectively and responsibly.

A champion of institutional integrity, Seraphia is known for strengthening internal controls, streamlining systems, and guiding sustainable growth. Her leadership reinforces the Trust’s values of stewardship, transparency, and equity, making her a vital force in advancing its mission and long-term impact.

Rev. Dr. Simon Mwangi is a respected spiritual leader and long-serving associate pastor at Parklands Baptist Church, with over 30 years of ministry rooted in humility, wisdom, and integrity. From his early days as a high school teacher to becoming a national voice in discipleship and mission work, his life reflects a deep commitment to service and transformation.

A trusted mentor and community mobilizer, Dr. Mwangi has guided individuals and institutions through pivotal moments of growth and purpose. His calm, discerning leadership has shaped youth ministries, church plants, governance, and humanitarian efforts across Kenya and beyond.

At The Gichina Trust, he serves as a spiritual and moral anchor, offering prayerful insight, ethical clarity, and intergenerational perspective. More than a board member, he is a confidant to the founder and a steady voice safeguarding the soul of the Trust’s mission as it grows in reach and impact.

Karimi Kinoti is a seasoned international development leader with over 25 years of experience in climate justice, environmental restoration, peacebuilding, and community resilience across Africa and beyond. A strong advocate for African-led solutions, she is known for championing justice-driven, people-centered approaches to some of the continent’s most pressing challenges.

Karimi’s leadership blends bold vision with grounded action. She has worked across grassroots movements, faith networks, and global platforms like COP, translating local realities into policy narratives that shape systems and institutions. Her ability to bridge strategy, advocacy, and community engagement brings depth and credibility to the Trust’s mission.

As a trustee, Karimi brings values-based leadership, strategic clarity, and global perspective to The Gichina Trust. Her presence reinforces the Trust’s identity as a pan-African institution with both moral grounding and transformative ambition, helping guide its growth with integrity, insight, and unwavering commitment to long-term impact.

Fred Ondieki Mogotu is a seasoned legal professional with over 16 years of experience in real estate, banking and finance, and aviation law. As Managing Partner at a prominent law firm, he is widely respected for his expertise in land transactions, regulatory compliance, and complex, high-value legal structuring. His ability to navigate legal intricacies makes him a valuable asset to mission-driven institutions.

At The Gichina Trust, Fred offers critical legal oversight, ensuring that the trust’s operations and partnerships are grounded in due diligence, legal soundness, and responsible governance. His counsel supports the Trust’s growth while safeguarding its integrity and the confidence of its stakeholders.

With a strong foundation in commercial and financial law, Fred advises on risk mitigation, strategic partnerships, and financial structuring. His values of integrity, excellence, and foresight mirror the Trust’s commitment to accountability and generational impact.