Meet the people behind project elikya
Grace Djemba
Finance & Outreach Coordinator
Hi. I’m Grace. I hold a Master’s in Accounting, two (2) Bachelor’s Degrees in Business Administration and Accounting. I am a CERT (Community Emergency Response Team Member) in Maryland and Washington, DC and also have volunteered with The American Red Cross.
I’m a passionate community advocate, a wellness organizer, and an aspiring non profit leader dedicated to empowering and up lifting individuals and families through education, wellness, cultural connection and community support. It takes a whole village to raise one person and that is what life is about.
My vision focuses on promoting hope, unity, empowerment and practical support for those navigating everyday life challenges
“I am becoming the woman I have always wanted to be”
Sylvie Osias
Planning & Research
Hi. I am Sylvie, and my passion for chemistry has always been at the center of my journey. After coming to the United States, I pursued the opportunity to study what I love and earned a degree in Chemical Engineering. For the past decade, I have worked in the environmental field as a compliance engineer.
As a parent of first-generation immigrant children, I have come to realize that the challenges are not only the ones our children face, but also the ones we, as parents, must navigate ourselves. This experience has deepened my understanding of identity, adaptation, communication, and the importance of community support.
I believe our communities are not lacking role models because there are not enough capable people, but because there is not enough involvement and engagement. That belief is what inspires me to step forward, contribute, and be part of the change I hope to see.
Charlene Lipomo
Administrative & Operational Assistant
Hi, I’m Charlene Lipomo. I hold a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from Towson University and am deeply passionate about advancing public health through disease prevention, community wellness, and health education. My work is driven by a commitment to improving the well-being of individuals and communities while advocating for equitable access to health resources and opportunities.
I believe that healthy communities are built through education, prevention, and collaboration, and I am dedicated to promoting initiatives that empower people to lead healthier lives
Outside of my professional interests, I enjoy traveling, exploring new cultures, and spending quality time with family and friends. These experiences enrich my perspective and reinforce my commitment to building stronger, more connected communities.
Alima Malungila
Event Coordinator
Hi. I’m Alima Amuri Malungila. I’m an inspiring and devoted wife and mother to three wonderful daughters, whose passion for service goes far beyond my family commitments., with over ten years of experience in case management, healthcare coordination, community outreach, and advocacy.
I work tirelessly to support immigrants, refugees, asylees, and underserved populations across the vibrant DMV region. As a member of the Community Advisory Board members for the mayor’s Office of immigrant affairs, I promote culturally responsive policies that reflect the needs of immigrant communities. I hold a Bachelors’ degree and am currently pursuing graduate studies in Public Health and Health Information Management. I am fluent in more than five languages.
Mikal Teklehaimanot
Administrative & Operational Assistant
Hi, I’m Mikal. I am a former teacher, a devoted wife, and a proud mother of four beautiful children. My life is deeply rooted in faith, family, and service to others.
Beyond serving the Lord, my greatest joy and accomplishment is my family. As a loving wife and mother, I cherish the opportunity to nurture, guide, and support my children, who remain at the center of my world.
I have a strong passion for serving others and making a positive impact within my community. Whether through encouragement, compassion, or simply being present for those in need, I believe in the power of connection and service.
In my personal time, I enjoy reading and spending time with dogs, which bring me both comfort and happiness
Rachel Osias
Event Planner
Hello, I am Rachel. I hold a degree in Business Administration and have over 10 years of experience in case management, community outreach, and human services. Throughout my career, I have worked closely with diverse individuals and families, helping them navigate challenges, access resources, and achieve greater stability and well-being.
As a Community Health Worker and community advocate, I am passionate about empowering individuals through education, support, and meaningful connections. My work has focused on bridging gaps in services, promoting health and wellness, and fostering stronger, more resilient communities.
I also have a deep passion for event coordination and community engagement. I believe that well-planned events have the power to bring people together, inspire meaningful conversations, celebrate culture, and strengthen relationships. From community workshops and outreach programs to cultural celebrations and special events, I enjoy creating experiences that leave a lasting impact and foster a sense of belonging.
Meet our board members & community elders
Naide Obiang
Board member
Naïde Obiang, often called “Nana OB” is a multilingual communication professional with a Master’s degree in Peace & Conflict Studies, a Bachelor’s in Communication, and extensive experience bridging immigrant communities with institutions in the United States.
For decades, she has served as a communication professional, interpreter, translator, cultural mediator, and community organizer; facilitating access to services, promoting cross-cultural understanding, and supporting the integration of newly arrived immigrants.
She is actively engaged in global policy spaces, including IMF, World Bank, or Center of Global Development-demonstrating her commitment to international dialogue, development, and diaspora participation.
Betty K Osias
Board member
Communication
Hi. I’m Betty. I like to think of myself as someone who builds bridges and connects ideas. For the past 16 years, I have worked in higher education, teaching Economics to students from diverse cultural, socioeconomic, and academic backgrounds. I also support MBA professors in delivering high-quality instruction and enriching the learning experience for graduate students.
As an educator, I believe learning is a two-way process. Each semester, my students teach me as much as I teach them. My work as an Academic Coach has deepened my appreciation for the remarkable power of the human brain and the many ways it shapes how we think, learn, and make decisions.
Outside of work, I enjoy staying active through pickleball and Zumba. I also love baking, especially my all-time favorite treat: vanilla pound cake, which never fails to bring family and friends together.
Mado M Ngoya
Board Member
Mado Ngoya is a devoted mother and proud grandmother, she is passionate about creating opportunities for others to thrive. As an entrepreneur and owner of a Residential Assisted Living home, she has dedicated her career to providing compassionate, high-quality care that preserves the dignity, comfort, and independence of those she serves.
Her commitment extends far beyond her business. Deeply rooted in community service, she believes in using her experience, leadership, and compassion to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families. Whether supporting seniors, mentoring others, or contributing to community initiatives, she is driven by a genuine desire to serve with integrity, kindness, and purpose.
Maman Therese Tshibuabua
Community Elder
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Papa Miatudila
Community Elder
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Pasteur Walter
Community Elder
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