VIRGINIA SAOKE

Virginia is the founding Chair of the Board of Trustees of WENDO. Born and raised in Kenya before moving to the UK, Virginia has a lifelong passion for supporting disadvantaged women and girls, particularly in rural communities. 

She holds a degree in Theology from the University of Roehampton and is an ordained church minister with extensive experience in pastoral care and counselling. Virginia has over 15 years’ experience working with adults with learning disabilities. 

In addition to her role at WENDO, Virginia is the founder and Chairperson of a UK-wide welfare society that supports women through illness and bereavement, boasting over 200 members. 

For many years, she has personally funded initiatives empowering vulnerable and economically disadvantaged women and girls in Kenya.

LAVENDER MWAMBA

Lavender is a proud qualified nurse working in a hospital within the NHS. She has dedicated her professional life to the care and wellbeing of others, including many years of past distinguished service in a hospice environment, where she supported patients and families through some of life’s most complex and emotional experiences with compassion and integrity. 

She demonstrates a steadfast commitment to community health and development, with a particular focus on empowering women and girls through improved access to education, healthcare and equal opportunities.

Lavender contributes to WENDO a wealth of professional expertise, empathy and leadership in safeguarding and supporting vulnerable individuals across society.

LILIAN OCHIENG

Lilian is a dedicated advocate for the disadvantaged, particularly women and girls, a cause she has championed throughout her life. 

She has cultivated strong relationships with community leaders in rural areas of her native Kenya, enabling effective assessment of local needs and priorities. 

For many years, Lilian has served as treasurer of a UK women’s welfare organisation, where she oversees financial management and strategic planning. She is also an accomplished event organiser and works professionally as a train station supervisor. 

Lilian brings to WENDO a wealth of experience in community engagement, financial stewardship and women’s empowerment, contributing significantly to the organisation’s governance and mission delivery.

DANIELA DE ROSA

Daniela de Rosa is a trustee who brings a strong background in communication leadership from his 30-year career in the media world. 

Currently a freelance journalist, Daniela offers valuable expertise in communications and social media management. 

Although new to the charity sector, she is passionate about using her professional skills to support causes that make a difference in people’s lives. 

Her perspective and commitment make her a valuable addition to the board. Daniela joined the board in 2025 and is particularly interested in helping the organisation grow its impact through clear planning and accountability.

BEVERLEY WHITE

Beverley White is the Chief Executive Officer of P45 Consultancy, a marketing and business consultancy specialising in strategy, partnerships, sponsorship and organisational development. With over 20 years of experience across the corporate, charity, and creative sectors, Beverley has supported organisations to strengthen governance, build strategic partnerships and achieve sustainable growth. She has led a wide range of projects focused on business development, stakeholder engagement, fundraising and capacity building.

Beverley holds an MBA in Business and is recognised for her strategic insight, collaborative leadership style and commitment to helping organisations maximise their impact. Through her work at P45 Consultancy, she advises charities, social enterprises and purpose-driven organisations on aligning their mission with practical opportunities for growth and long-term success.

Passionate about social impact, diversity, and community development, Beverley brings both commercial expertise and a strong commitment to creating positive change.

Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, spending time outdoors and building meaningful connections through networking, interests that reflect her passion for wellbeing, lifelong learning and discovering new opportunities.