Sarah Mbira

Sarah Mbira, born and brought up in Kenya, married with two adult sons. A graduate in B.A sociology from Kenyatta university, higher diploma in Counselling psychology and ongoing Masters in community development. Sarah also has a wealth of experience in child safeguarding and child-right based programming. Sarah is Macheo’s current Operations Director, and from 1st of January 2024 Macheo’s Managing Director.   

“I joined Macheo in October 2022 with the aim of continuing to make a difference in the lives of children, having done that for the last 25 years in different capacities in my previous employment. Although I have joined Macheo only in October 2022, I’m not completely foreign to its work because I’ve had numerous interactions with representatives of Macheo in circles that we shared and also collaborated on a number of issues where our work was complimentary to the other’s efforts.

In fact, I had the privilege of contributing to its establishment when the founders of Macheo came to consult and benchmark at my previous organization. Therefore, my integration into the team has been smooth not only because of the support I have received from my colleagues but also the interactions we’ve had and the good working relationship built in the past. Even with that said, I have to acknowledge the growth in both size and impact that characterizes Macheo today.

I have been amazed by the methodical approach and use of technology and data in shaping and implementing its programs, and I have to admit it is something I am learning to get used to. My role at Macheo is comparatively similar to my previous role. However, I have new goals and objectives in mind that I am set to achieve at Macheo that also align, unsurprisingly, with Macheo’s long-term goals. I intend to share my experience, skills, and knowledge with the team, which will benefit our clients more. I intend to enhance networking and collaboration with other institutions, governmental and non-governmental, to raise impact.

Additionally, I’m looking forward to fostering an environment at Macheo that is innovative, adaptable, and responsive to the complexity and ever-changing needs of our clients and emerging challenges. I am proud to say that I have already accomplished a lot in conjunction with my colleagues in a short amount of time. We have rolled out a new model – Family Needs-Based Model – that guarantees optimal impact to a family in a more holistic way. We laid down work of developing the 2024-2028 Macheo Strategic Plan, and spearheading this initiative, so far, has been a fulfilling experience. We are also in the initial stages of planning for the 2024 financial budgeting, and the work done so far is promising, based on the projections.

It is both my hope and dream that Macheo continues on the path of growth so we can reach more vulnerable people. This dream is tied to our ability to increase our funding base and better our financial health.

It is also important for the future that Macheo’s succession plan is continued so that, at no point there exists a knowledge gap.

Otherwise, I am grateful for the opportunity to work with such a dedicated team of people who are passionate about making a difference. I am confident that we will continue to make great strides in the years to come.”