On August 1st, 2025, the Ntha Foundation will proudly host its official U.S. launch gala in Redmond, Washington — marking a bold new chapter in our global journey to democratize creativity and innovation for development.
Founded in 2018 by Nthanda Manduwi, the Ntha Foundation is an education trust committed to empowering African youth through creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship. After seven impactful years working with international partners like the World Bank, European Union, and GIZ — supporting over 10,000 youth directly and over 500,000 through our digital learning platform — we are now expanding our mission globally through our U.S. 501(c)(3) incorporation.
A Strategic Shift: Launching in Redmond
Originally planned for New York City during the United Nations High-Level Political Forum in partnership with the Malawi and EU Missions to the UN, the launch has now found its first home in Redmond — the heart of innovation, and home to Microsoft, where our Founder is currently completing her MBA internship. The Archer Hotel Redmond, our gracious venue sponsor, will host the evening under the theme “From Malawi to Redmond.”
Why This Gala?
The gala is not just a celebration — it is a fundraiser for the construction of the Kwathu Innovation & Creative Centre in Malawi: an AI-native, solar-powered community hub focused on digital skills development, entrepreneurship, and smart agriculture. This hub will be the flagship home of the Ntha Foundation’s expanding continental work across Africa in building future-ready, innovation-driven societies.
Through this launch, we aim to raise $250,000 to break ground on the center and deepen our partnerships with international development agencies, tech leaders, philanthropists, and the African diaspora.
What to Expect
Guests will enjoy a vibrant evening of curated conversations, live performances, and a dinner inspired by the flavors of Malawi — all while exploring how creativity and innovation can bridge continents and uplift entire communities.
We invite individuals, institutions, and partners who believe in the power of youth, innovation, and Africa’s future to join us for this historic occasion.
| TIME | SEGMENT | DETAILS |
| 18:30 – 19:00 | Cocktail Reception | Arrival and networking over drinks, light music, and storytelling displays |
| 19:00 – 19:45 | Dinner: A Taste of Malawi | Seated dinner with Malawian-inspired cuisine and instrumental music |
| 19:45 – 20:00 | Welcome & Partner Remarks | Opening words by Emcee and brief remarks from strategic partners |
| 20:00 – 20:06 | Keynote by Nthanda Manduwi | “From Mangochi to Microsoft: Random Journeys, Relatable Journeys” |
| 20:06 – 20:09 | Introductory Video | A short visual story capturing the Ntha Foundation’s journey |
| 20:09 – 20:29 | Live Reading: Lessons from the Journey | Reflections from Nthanda’s upcoming book Lessons |
| 20:29 – 20:45 | Fireside Panel: Democratising Creativity and Innovation | Lessons Conversation with global leaders in tech, policy, and creativity |
| 20:45 – 21:00 | Fundraising Call-to-Action | Join our mission — contributions, partnerships, and pledges |
| 21:00 – 21:30 | Closing Cultural Performance | Music and dance performance celebrating Malawian heritage |
Want to support our mission? Donations are tax-deductible, and eligible for employer matching through the Microsoft Giving Program.
Work With Us
Want to partner on or fund one of our programs / initiatives? We are always open to collaborations and partnerships. Contact our Founder; Ms. Nthanda Manduwi via contact@nthafoundation.org, or give us a call(direct or WhatsApp) on +265991850730.
To keep up with the work of the Ntha Foundation, our hubs under the Kwathu Kollective, our initiatives, and our projects, follow us on social media:
NTHA FOUNDATION SOCIAL MEDIA
KWATHU KOLLECTIVE SOCIAL MEDIA
