Governance

At Lerato Foundation, governance is founded on the belief that leadership is a responsibility entrusted by God to serve others with humility, integrity, and excellence. As a Christian-led organisation, our governance approach is shaped by biblical principles of servant leadership, compassion, stewardship, justice, accountability, and love for others.

We believe that effective governance is not only about policies, structures, and oversight; it is about ensuring that every decision, programme, and partnership reflects our commitment to serving people and creating lasting transformation.

Our governance framework provides a strong foundation for responsible leadership, ethical decision-making, transparency, and sustainable impact. Through the guidance of the Board of Directors and collaboration with the executive leadership team, Lerato Foundation is committed to maintaining the highest standards of accountability while pursuing our mission of empowering young people, strengthening families, and transforming communities.

Our Governance Philosophy

Guided by faith, integrity, and a commitment to serving others.

Servant Leadership

Lerato Foundation embraces the Christian model of servant leadership, where leaders are called to serve with humility, compassion, and commitment.

Serving communities with compassion and respect
Prioritising the wellbeing of every individual
Leading with humility and integrity
Developing the next generation of leaders
Using influence for the greater good

Stewardship & Responsibility

All resources entrusted to Lerato Foundation — finances, partnerships, talents, and opportunities — are managed wisely.

Responsible financial management
Transparency in resource utilisation
Effective planning and reporting
Sustainable programme development
Accountability to partners and communities

Integrity & Ethical Leadership

Our governance is guided by honesty, accountability, and ethical conduct, creating trust through consistent actions.

Transparency in decision-making
Respect for organisational policies
Professional conduct
Accountability for responsibilities
Commitment to Christian values

Board of Directors

Providing Strategic Oversight and Spiritual Guidance

The Board of Directors serves as the highest governance authority of Lerato Foundation. The Board provides strategic oversight, organisational guidance, and accountability to ensure the Foundation remains faithful to its mission, values, and long-term objectives.

The Board brings together Christian leaders and professionals from diverse backgrounds who contribute expertise in leadership, finance, programmes, communication, and organisational development.

President

Martha Sales

Canada

Martha Sales provides strategic leadership and governance oversight for Lerato Foundation. She guides the board in maintaining accountability, integrity, and effective decision-making while ensuring the foundation remains faithful to its Christ-centered mission.

“Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” — Proverbs 11:14

Vice President

Daniel Li

China

Daniel Li supports global strategy, partnerships, and institutional development. He contributes to strengthening the foundation's international vision and sustainable growth.

“Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” — Proverbs 16:3

Secretary

Sarah Thompson

United Kingdom

Sarah Thompson oversees governance records, board communication, compliance documentation, and administrative systems to promote transparency and order.

“Let all things be done decently and in order.” — 1 Corinthians 14:40

Assistant Secretary

Hannah Wilson

Australia

Hannah Wilson supports board coordination, governance processes, and organizational administration while promoting teamwork and servant leadership.

“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” — Matthew 20:26

Treasurer

James Flint

Florida, USA

James Flint provides financial governance and oversight, ensuring responsible stewardship, accountability, and sustainability of the foundation's resources.

“Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” — 1 Corinthians 4:2

Programmes Coordinator

Ananya Thomas

India

Ananya Thomas provides strategic oversight in program development and implementation, helping ensure Lerato Foundation's initiatives achieve lasting community impact.

“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” — Colossians 3:23

Communications Lead

Mary Elizabeth

United Kingdom

Mary Elizabeth leads communication and partnership engagement, ensuring the foundation's vision, stories, and impact are effectively shared globally.

“Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt.” — Colossians 4:6

Board Member

Joseph Caleb

Canada

Joseph Caleb supports strategic development, governance expansion, and institutional growth while promoting excellence and faithful service.

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9

Governance Responsibilities

The Board's commitment to faithful and accountable leadership.

Strategic Direction

Providing guidance on the Foundation's vision, mission, priorities, and long-term sustainability.

Financial Accountability

Ensuring responsible stewardship of resources through oversight of financial practices, sustainability planning, and accountability systems.

Programme Oversight

Supporting programmes that align with the Foundation's mission and create meaningful impact among young people and communities.

Risk Management & Compliance

Promoting policies and practices that protect the organisation, beneficiaries, partners, and stakeholders.

Leadership Accountability

Ensuring that organisational leadership operates effectively, ethically, and in alignment with the Foundation's values.

Safeguarding & Protection

Prioritising the safety, dignity, and wellbeing of children, young people, and all beneficiaries involved in Lerato Foundation programmes.

Governance Principles

The values that guide our leadership and decision-making.

Faith

Guided by Christian values, we serve with compassion, humility, and purpose.

Integrity

We lead with honesty, transparency, and ethical responsibility.

Accountability

We remain responsible to God, our beneficiaries, partners, supporters, and communities.

Excellence

We pursue high standards in leadership, programmes, and service.

Compassion

We demonstrate care and commitment to improving lives.

Sustainability

We build systems and partnerships that create lasting transformation.