MESA is founder-led and volunteer-powered — built by people who chose to stay and build rather than walk away.
Michelle holds a degree in International Relations from Krakow University, Poland, and brings both academic training and lived experience — including founding roots in micro-farming in Rusape — to MESA's work in Mazowe. She uses that training directly to lead MESA's Tax Justice & CSR Dialogues, matching mineral revenue data against local service delivery.
She leads MESA's strategy, external representation, writing and public voice, and personally coordinates the alliance's partnerships with donors, local authorities and volunteers.
Every ward MESA enters is run day-to-day by local volunteers and ward coordinators — the people who live there, and who stay long after any single project ends.
Michelle Kudzai Mawushe — strategy, external representation, writing, public voice, partnership development.
UK-based family advisor — research support, donor introductions, review of materials, light-touch governance advice.
Recruited locally in each active ward — first point of contact for volunteers and the community.
Church groups, alumni networks, community radio and social pages that amplify verified impact stories.
MESA is governed by a Board of Trustees (3–7 members) that sets policy, approves budgets and reports, and appoints the Executive Director. See our Impact & Reports page for governance documents.
MESA is always looking for ward coordinators, distribution partners and skilled volunteers.
See Volunteer Roles