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BUILDING BRIDGES OF HOPE

Leadership is about leading by example and creating a legacy of impact and compassion.

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Founder: Maria Camila Medina

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A SHORT STORY

The Giving Genie was born out of a deep commitment to empowering Mozambique's marginalized communities, with a special focus on women and youth. Guided by our Founder and Chief Technical Adviser, a passionate visionary and social entrepreneur, we are on a mission to create lasting, positive change through innovative programs that uplift individuals and strengthen communities.

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Our Education Program is at the heart of what we do, offering vital tuition assistance that opens doors to vocational education, entrepreneurship, and business skills, especially for women. By equipping them with the knowledge and tools to build sustainable futures, we are helping to break the cycle of poverty.

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In the face of adversity, our Genie Corps Emergency Response Program prepares youth, 70% of whom are women, with life-saving skills in disaster preparedness. We are building safer, more resilient communities by fostering a culture of preparedness.

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Within the Nurturing Futures initiative, The Giving Genie extends its reach to partner schools and orphanages, prioritizing children's safety and resilience. The Giving Genie Magic Quillow project provides vital comfort and protection to vulnerable children displaced by disasters, offering a tangible symbol of care. The Genie Safe Initiative empowers "Jovens Mentores" (JOMENs)—young community leaders—with comprehensive training on disaster preparedness, clean water management, and infrastructure awareness. These JOMENs become crucial advocates and educators, disseminating life-saving knowledge. Recognizing the pivotal role of early childhood education, Genie Read, a crucial component of Nurturing Futures, introduces preschool students to the English language while nurturing foundational literacy skills through engaging, age-appropriate resources. By providing both immediate support and long-term educational empowerment, Nurturing Futures aims to create a secure and thriving environment for children.

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Empower Her is dedicated to nurturing the leadership potential of young women, equipping them to become catalysts for change. Through mentorship, targeted workshops, and access to vital resources, the program empowers them to combat gender-based violence, address mental health challenges, and make meaningful contributions to their communities. Crucially, Empower Her also provides entrepreneurship training, enabling beneficiaries to develop sustainable business plans and secure funding for start-ups, fostering economic independence and long-term community impact.

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At The Giving Genie, we believe that by unlocking the innate potential within individuals and uniting our efforts, we can forge a brighter, more equitable future for all.

OUR CORE VALUES

EMPOWERMENT THROUGH EDUCATION

We believe in the transformative power of education. Our commitment to providing essential educational opportunities, especially for women, drives our efforts to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to build sustainable and successful futures.

RESILIENCE AND PREPAREDNESS

We are dedicated to fostering resilient communities by instilling a culture of preparedness. Through our Genie Corps Emergency Response Program, we empower youth with life-saving skills, ensuring that they are ready to face and overcome challenges.

PROTECTION
AND SAFETY

We prioritize the safety and well-being of children and vulnerable individuals. Our Nurturing Futures initiative and The Giving Genie Magic Quillow project reflect our commitment to creating secure environments where everyone can thrive, even in the face of adversity.

LEADERSHIP
AND ADVOCACY

We are committed to nurturing the leadership potential of young women. Through our Empower Her program, we provide the tools, mentorship, and resources needed to inspire and support the next generation of female leaders, fostering advocacy against gender-based violence and promoting mental health awareness.

MEET THE TEAM

OUR BOARD MEMBERS

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MARIA C. MEDINA

Founder/Chief Technical Advisor

Maria Camila Medina is a certified nonprofit professional, social entrepreneur, and humanitarian with extensive expertise in disaster management, community development, and women’s empowerment. As the Founder and Chief Technical Advisor of The Giving Genie, Maria Camila is dedicated to driving transformative change across Mozambique and Africa, focusing on women’s empowerment, education, and socio-economic development. Through strategic initiatives like tuition assistance, emergency response training, orphanage support, and women’s empowerment workshops, she has unlocked the potential of individuals and communities facing adversity, creating lasting impact in regions of need. Maria Camila’s career is a testament to resilience, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to global social good. Her journey began as a Peace Corps volunteer in Mozambique, where her passion for community service and humanitarian work was ignited. This experience laid the foundation for her work with The Giving Genie, where she leads impactful projects that promote gender equality and provide opportunities for women and children to thrive. Her expertise extends beyond The Giving Genie, as Maria Camila also serves as the Executive Director of the Guatemalan Tomorrow Fund, where she leads operations supporting Ak’ Tenamit, an organization focused on vocational education, job placement, and sustainable resource management for indigenous youth in Guatemala. In this role, Maria Camila spearheads innovative fundraising strategies, oversees financial operations, and manages the Student Sponsorship program and donor relations. She also advocates for climate change initiatives through her work with the Guatemalan Indigenous Committee on Climate Change, furthering her commitment to sustainable community development. Maria Camila’s career includes a distinguished history of international disaster management and humanitarian response. As the former International Disaster Response Coordinator at Food For The Poor, she orchestrated emergency relief efforts across the United States, Latin America, and the Caribbean, strengthening global resilience and response strategies. In her previous role as Region 8 Recovery Coordinator at the Florida Division of Emergency Management, she enhanced disaster preparedness and recovery efforts across the region, using her technical expertise to foster collaboration among stakeholders. At the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Maria Camila played a key role in the Crisis Counseling Program (CCP), launching initiatives like Conquer COVID-19-LA to support communities during the pandemic. Earlier in her career, she served as a Child Protective Investigator at the Florida Department of Children and Families, where her advanced analytical skills were critical in protecting vulnerable children and supporting families in crisis. In addition to her leadership roles, Maria Camila is a Professor of Crisis and Disaster Management at Everglades University, where she empowers students with the knowledge and skills to navigate crisis response and disaster management. She holds a bachelor's degree in International Relations, two master’s degrees (Nonprofit Administration and Disaster Management), and is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Executive Leadership. She is also certified in FEMA’s Professional Development Series, Human Trafficking Investigations, Mental First Aid, and is a Florida Certified Child Protection Investigator. Currently based in West Palm Beach, Florida, with her husband and three children, Maria Camila continues to lead with a deep commitment to equity, social justice, and the empowerment of individuals and communities worldwide. Through her work at The Giving Genie and her extensive experience in disaster management and community development, Maria Camila remains a driving force in creating sustainable solutions and brighter futures for those in need.

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SEEMA MOZAFFAR

Executive Director

Seema Mozaffar is a results-focused, mission-driven senior executive with a proven track record in driving impactful international development projects. As the Executive Director and Director of International Development Projects at The Giving Genie, Seema brings a wealth of expertise in optimizing processes, leading successful programs, and guiding strategic initiatives that promote global change. With extensive experience across the consumer goods, healthcare, technology, nonprofit, and Fortune 500 sectors, Seema excels in navigating corporate transitions, crises, and complexities to deliver meaningful results. Seema’s background includes leadership roles in a range of high-profile companies. At Aspen Dental Management, she served as Senior Program Manager, where she generated $35 million in incremental revenue through the implementation of a patient financing portal. She also led the migration of a dental practice management system across 1,000+ offices, achieving $1 million in annual cost savings through cloud migration. As IT Director at The Aman Foundation, Seema built a robust technology infrastructure that enabled 24/7 operations, increasing emergency response service availability by 50% and saving $1.2 million annually by implementing Microsoft Dynamics AX. Her consulting work at Wisdom Global accelerated L'Oréal’s E2E subsidiary operations by 3 months and delivered a telehealth solution for Online Care, saving up to $1 million annually for healthcare providers. Seema’s leadership experience also includes her role as Regional IT Director for Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Turkey at Unilever, where she implemented SAP R/3 Financials and established a financial shared service center, achieving $2 million in annual savings through optimized treasury operations. At The Giving Genie, Seema continues to apply her expertise to lead transformative international development projects, improving lives and creating sustainable change in communities across the globe. Known for her determination, decisiveness, and problem-solving mentality, Seema is dedicated to ensuring the success of The Giving Genie’s mission to empower women, advance education, and foster socio-economic development worldwide.

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MARIA P. MEDINA

Treasury

Paula Medina is a distinguished member of our board of directors. With a distinguished background in Nurse Anesthesiology, Maria Paula brings a blend of expertise and compassion to our team. She holds a Master’s degree from the University of Puerto Rico and completed her undergraduate studies at Florida State University, reflecting her dedication to excellence in her field. Beyond her academic and professional achievements, Maria Paula has demonstrated a profound commitment to humanitarian efforts. She has generously volunteered her time and skills on numerous missions, both domestically and internationally, to serve those in need. Maria Paula’s deep-rooted passion for making a positive impact aligns seamlessly with our mission to uplift communities and empower individuals. We are excited to benefit from her exceptional experience and unwavering dedication as she contributes to our organization’s goals.

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DIANA LIBREROS

Board Member, Corporate Relationships

Diana Libreros is a dynamic global leader, mentor, and advocate who brings over two decades of experience in international business, sales, and strategic growth. As an award-winning Sales Director at Linstol, she has led initiatives that drive innovation and expansion across global markets, collaborating with major airlines and partners worldwide. Throughout her career, Diana has been recognized not only for her results-driven approach but also for her ability to connect, communicate, and tell compelling stories that elevate brands across continents. Her global perspective and deep industry expertise position her as a powerful voice in both business and advocacy spaces. Beyond her professional achievements, Diana is deeply committed to making a meaningful impact in the lives of others. She is passionate about mentoring students and young professionals, guiding the next generation with insight, encouragement, and real-world experience. Her dedication to supporting education and expanding opportunities for children reflects her belief that true success is measured by the difference we make in people’s lives. As a Board Member focused on Corporate Relationships at The Giving Genie, Diana plays a key role in building and strengthening partnerships that support the organization’s mission. She brings both strategic vision and heart—helping to connect resources, opportunities, and people to drive meaningful, lasting impact in underserved communities.

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BENGALA NGOBENE

Vice President

Bengala Ngobene serves as Vice President on the board of directors at The Giving Genie, bringing a wealth of expertise in business intelligence, strategy, project management, and brand development. His background in sales operations and e-commerce management, including web design and content strategy, equips him with invaluable skills that greatly benefit the organization. Born in Mozambique and raised in Zimbabwe, Bengala offers a global perspective and a deep-seated commitment to community empowerment. As a business owner and marketing professional, Bengala is driven by an entrepreneurial mindset, consistently seeking innovative ways to enhance productivity and profitability. His strategic insights enable him to lead impactful initiatives, particularly in underserved communities. Through his role at The Giving Genie, Bengala channels his passion for philanthropy to support and uplift his homeland of Mozambique. Outside of his professional life, Bengala enjoys spending quality time with his loved ones, golfing, and exploring culinary pursuits. His multifaceted contributions embody the spirit of generosity and leadership, making a meaningful difference in the lives of others through The Giving Genie.

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CHRISTABEL SHINDE

Secretary

Christabel Shinde, a distinguished board member of The Giving Genie, hails from Zambia and now resides in Naples, Florida. She holds a Master’s degree in Marketing and Advertising from Florida International University, which enhances her expertise in leveraging digital platforms to amplify our mission. With her profound understanding of technology and marketing, Christabel is dedicated to using these tools to drive positive change. Her focus on women's empowerment, education, and socio-economic development aligns perfectly with The Giving Genie’s objectives. Christabel’s innovative strategies and unwavering commitment to creating tangible impact make her an invaluable member of our team.

OUR TEAM

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GLORIA BATUMEYO MOIO

Social Innovation for Women’s Empowerment

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Glória brings with her a wealth of experience, dedication, and passion for driving gender equality, combating gender-based violence (GBV), and empowering women and girls. With a strong background in sexual and reproductive health, community education, and gender advocacy, Glória has played a pivotal role in coordinating transformative projects in Mozambique. Her work has focused on the empowerment of adolescent girls and young women, prevention of GBV, and promoting health rights, including HIV/AIDS education. Throughout her career, Glória has led impactful initiatives as the DREAMS Technical Support Officer at N’weti - Comunicação para Saúde, where she was at the forefront of implementing community-driven programs. She also served as Project Manager at ASSODELI, focusing on child protection, gender, and community development. Glória’s leadership has always been rooted in the creation of strong community networks, policy advocacy, and empowering individuals with the tools they need for sustainable change.

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LORA L. MCKENZIE

Director of Programs and Operations

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Lora Lee McKenzie is a highly skilled professional with a distinguished career spanning 26 years as a microbiologist. Throughout her career, Lora has played a critical role behind the scenes, contributing to life-saving advancements in the field of microbiology. Motivated by a desire to have a more direct impact, she pursued a bachelor’s degree in Crisis and Disaster Management at Everglades University, graduating with a perfect 4.0 GPA and receiving Leadership Distinction. Currently, Lora serves as the Director of Programs and Operations at The Giving Genie, where she oversees The Magic Quillow Project. In this role, she combines her extensive expertise in emergency management with her passion for community service, ensuring the successful implementation of programs that make a tangible difference in the lives of others. In addition to her role at The Giving Genie, Lora is a paid intern in the planning division of The Olson Group, Ltd., where she further applies her skills in a professional setting. She is also working towards her master’s degree in leadership, with an anticipated completion by the end of 2025. Lora Lee McKenzie’s blend of microbiology and crisis management expertise, along with her commitment to service, positions her as a key leader dedicated to fostering positive change and advancing the mission of The Giving Genie.

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MANUELA HUDENBOLL

Local Program Director, The Magic Quillow Project – Mozambique

Manuela Hundeboll is a dedicated social impact leader and program specialist committed to improving the lives of children, adolescents, and families across Mozambique. As the Local Program Director for The Giving Genie’s Magic Quillow Project, she leads the implementation of initiatives designed to bring comfort, security, and care to orphaned children during vulnerable times. In her role, Manuela works closely with local orphanages and serves as a key liaison with ODEI (Organização para o Desenvolvimento e Educação Infantil), ensuring strong partnerships and the effective delivery of the program on the ground. Her leadership is central to advancing the project’s mission and creating meaningful, lasting impact within the communities it serves. A Mozambican national, Manuela currently serves as the Provincial Coordinator in Maputo City and Province for ODEI. She is also an entrepreneur in business management and support, bringing a well-rounded perspective that bridges both social and private sector experience. Her professional background spans over seven years in social services—across education, health, and environmental sectors—and more than thirteen years in the private sector, with expertise in customer service, administration, human resources management, and service delivery. Manuela specializes in developing and implementing programs focused on early childhood development (ECD), as well as initiatives supporting adolescents and youth. She holds a degree in Human Resources Management and is currently completing her Master’s in Public Health. Her commitment to continuous learning is reflected in certifications in Sexual and Reproductive Health Law, Injury and Trauma Care, Emotional Intelligence, and advanced training in Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA). She has also participated in UNICEF-supported programming on Positive Masculinity and Male Engagement through the DPI Network. In addition to her leadership roles, Manuela actively promotes parental education within local communities to support early childhood development and serves as an external consultant with ConsulAng and Coaching Agency (CCA), contributing to public health and administrative programs. She has also facilitated awareness initiatives addressing alcohol and drug abuse prevention among adolescents. Driven by a deep passion for social change, Manuela believes strongly in the power of education as a foundation for sustainable and inclusive development. Her work reflects a commitment to building healthier, more resilient communities and creating brighter futures for the next generation.

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ETNA DA CONCEIÇÃO BIZEQUE

Genie Safe Program Manager & International Advocate Storyteller for Girls’ Education & Leadership – Mozambique

Etna da Conceição Bizeque is a passionate advocate, community leader, and storyteller dedicated to empowering girls and young women through education, leadership, and social impact. As the Genie Safe Program Manager and International Advocate Storyteller for Girls’ Education & Leadership at The Giving Genie, she plays a vital role in both implementing impactful programs and amplifying the voices of individuals and communities across Mozambique. Etna holds a degree in Biology and Laboratory Management and a postgraduate qualification in Soft Skills, and she is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Integrated Management. Her academic and professional development is complemented by extensive training in Human Resources Management, Occupational Health and Safety, Community Development, and Civic Leadership—reflecting her commitment to holistic growth and sustainable impact. With a diverse professional background spanning laboratory work, education, and community engagement, Etna has consistently focused on youth empowerment. She has worked closely with youth associations as a trainer in areas such as environmental management, gender-based violence prevention, and leadership development, equipping young people with the tools to become agents of change in their communities. Etna currently serves as the Provincial Coordinator of Sofala for the African Union Youth Advisory Council (Mozambique Chapter), where she contributes to advancing youth leadership and civic participation at a regional level. Driven by her personal philosophy, “If it’s not to inspire, there’s no reason to live,” Etna brings authenticity, empathy, and purpose to her work. Through both program leadership and storytelling, she ensures that the experiences of girls and women are not only supported on the ground but also seen, heard, and valued globally.

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MUDASIR NAVEED

GCERP and Genie Safe Program Manager

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Mudasir Naveed is our GCERP and Genie Safe Program Manager at The Giving Genie. Mudasir brings a wealth of experience and passion for serving vulnerable communities, holding a Bachelor of Science in Disaster Management from the University of the Punjab, Lahore, and a Diploma of Associate Engineering in Civil Engineering from Pak Polytechnic Institute, PITB Lahore, Pakistan. With diverse experience as an Ambassador for the Pakistan Red Crescent Movement and roles in student welfare organizations, coupled with his professional background in marketing and social media management, Mudasir is well-equipped to lead strategic initiatives aimed at addressing emergency preparedness and recovery for vulnerable families and individuals. His expertise in disaster management, GIS, and community-based disaster risk management, along with a host of relevant certifications, underscores his commitment to excellence.

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The Giving Genie
PO BOX 3506
Tequesta, FL 33469
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Phone: 239-595-1297
info@thegivinggenie.org

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TERMS OF USE |  PRIVACY POLICY | DONOR PRIVACY POLICY

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The Giving Genie is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization.
EIN: 87-4590633

 

All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

A copy of the official registration (CH#81647) and financial information may be obtained from the Division of Consumer Services by calling toll-free 1-800-HELP-FLA (800-435-7352) within the state or visiting FDACS.gov. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the state.

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