Our Mission
Watoto Poa is a non-profit organization founded by immigrants, for immigrants, with a mission to support and empower 1st and 2nd generation immigrant children and their families in navigating the social and education systems while preserving their culture and values.
We provide families with tools, resources, and activities to promote educational success and social integration, celebrating diversity and creating a safe environment for children to live, learn and thrive.
Our goal is to promote high school completion and graduation rates, post-high school advancement, and positive community engagement for immigrant children. Through our programs, we empower young individuals to succeed academically, build connections, and confidently navigate their new environment while embracing their cultural heritage.
WHO ARE WE
Our Vision
To create a society where immigrant children and their families thrive academically, socially, and emotionally while embracing their cultural heritage.
We envision a future where every immigrant child feels empowered, supported, and celebrated for their unique background and experiences.
Our Core Values
01/
academic excellence
04/
leadership
02/
civic engagement
05/
authenticity
03/
community engagement
06/
creativity
Our Board
A Tapestry of Immigrant Success Stories
At Watoto Poa, we believe in the power of stories. Stories that inspire, stories that empower, and stories that showcase the resilience and triumph of immigrants in their pursuit of a better life. Our board of directors is a reflection of these narratives, a diverse tapestry of individuals who have overcome unique challenges and achieved success in their respective fields.
Comprised of immigrants from different backgrounds, our board members bring a wealth of experiences, perspectives, and expertise to the table. Their collective journeys serve as a testament to the strength and determination that lies within every immigrant.
Clerk
Anjali Nemorin
Anjali Nemorin is a Masters of Public Health student at Harvard T.H Chan School of Public Health. She is passionate about improving the health outcomes of marginalized communities. Through her studies and research, she brings a deep understanding of the social determinants of health and the barriers faced by immigrants in accessing quality healthcare. She is an immigrant with a passion for seeing other immigrant kids succeed.
Treasurer
Wangui N. Rountree
Dr. Wangui N. Rountree is a Clinical Pharmacy Specialist at the U.S Department of Veteran Affairs with a Doctor of Pharmacy from University of Wisconsin -Madison. She is skilled in Public Speaking and Healthcare Management. She has experience navigating the U.S college system after learning the ropes on her own and working her way into Pharmacy School. Her dedication to the healthcare field has not only contributed to the well-being of countless individuals but has also paved the way for others to follow in her footsteps.
Director
Dylan Amaswache
Our youngest Board Member, a Freshman at Babson College class of 2027 studying Entrepreneurship, Venture Capital and Finance. He is one of the original Watoto Poa who joined when he was 6 years old and a big believer in the mission of Watoto Poa. He is an alumnus of A Better Chance of New Canaan, a program that provides opportunities to underrepresented people of color to attend prestigious schools. His experience provided him the opportunity to meet business leaders and engage in internships that helped expand his social awareness and business knowledge. Dylan is passionate about self-improvement and discipline, a great role model for his peers and younger youth.