James Gondwe

James Gondwe is a passionate social entrepreneur and development leader committed to transforming education and economic opportunities for young people in Malawi. He is the Founder and Executive Director of Ulalo, a leading nonprofit organization that bridges gaps in education by leveraging technology, innovation, and community-driven solutions.

With over a decade of experience in the development sector, James has played a critical role in implementing large-scale programs that improve foundational learning, equip youth with skills for employment and entrepreneurship, and enhance school nutrition through homegrown meal programs. Ulalo is at the forefront of integrating ICT in education, notably through the BEFIT program, which delivers personalized learning via tablets to thousands of students.

James is a Segal Family Foundation African Visionary Fellow (2022) and recipient of the Trust Changemakers Award (2019). His leadership extends beyond Ulalo, serving as Board Chair for the Early Childhood Development Department of the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian Synod of Livingstonia.

He actively contributes to global dialogues on education and development, engaging in platforms like the Clinton Global Initiative and Kellogg Northwestern Executive Education for Nonprofit Management. His work aligns with localization efforts, ensuring community ownership and sustainability in development initiatives.

James holds expertise in program design, policy advocacy, and strategic partnerships, making him a sought-after thought leader in the education and social impact space. His vision is to create an equitable future where every child, regardless of background, has access to quality education and the skills to thrive in a changing world.