A Journey of Passion, Purpose, and Commitment

My name is Laura Wijnbelt, and I am honored to serve as the Core President of WIWOCHI—an incredible NGO dedicated to transforming the lives of street children, vulnerable women, and marginalized communities in Tanzania.

Originally from the Netherlands, I live with my partner and three wonderful children. I have always had a deep love for traveling, dancing, and running, and I never shy away from challenges.

Since childhood, I dreamed of making a difference in Africa, imagining myself as a flying doctor, providing aid to children in need. Though life led me on a different path, I became a nurse, dedicating nearly 20 years to healthcare before retraining as a teacher in health care. This career shift eventually brought me to Tanzania, where my dreams found a new path.

From the moment I arrived in Tanzania, I felt at home. It was during a work visit to a hospital in Arusha that I met Cyrila, the Director of WIWOCHI. A deep friendship blossomed, and she introduced me to the culture, traditions, and people of this beautiful country. Together, we climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, an unforgettable experience that strengthened our bond and our shared vision.

As I spent time with the children cared for by WIWOCHI, I was deeply moved by their resilience, love, and dreams. Every child had a story—stories that touched my heart profoundly. I knew then that my purpose was clear: to help provide these children with safety, education, and hope for a better future.

Today, as Core President of WIWOCHI, I am fully committed to helping more children, supporting schools, and creating a safe environment for vulnerable communities. This is not just an organization—it is a movement towards a new beginning, a brighter future, and a world where every child has the opportunity to thrive.

Kwa upendo mwingi (With much love),
Laura Wijnbelt
Core President, WIWOCHI