Welcome to Africano Waltham
Africano Waltham is led by a dedicated team of community members, volunteers, and advisors who bring lived experience, cultural understanding, and a shared commitment to empowering families, youth, and seniors. Meet the people working behind the scenes to strengthen our community.
Meet Our Team
Our team is made up of passionate individuals who bring lived experience, cultural understanding, and commitment to everything we do. From leadership to volunteers, each person plays a vital role in shaping programs that support our community with care and respect.
Juliet Najjumba
CEO / Founder
Juliet brings her lived experience as an immigrant mother and community advocate to every part of Africano Waltham’s work. After arriving in the U.S. in 2010, she saw firsthand the challenges African immigrant families faced — navigating school systems, language barriers, and limited access to resources.
With a strong background in community empowerment, Juliet founded Africano Waltham to ensure families would not have to walk that journey alone. She leads with compassion, cultural understanding, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every child and family.
Dorothy Kitakufe Mugabi
Managing Director (Headmistress)
Known affectionately by the children as “Headmistress,” Dorothy brings a powerful combination of advocacy, leadership, and maternal care to Africano Waltham.
With a background in advocacy and deep community engagement, Dorothy is a dedicated mother and mentor who is passionate about helping children thrive. She plays a key role in guiding programs, supporting families, and creating a safe, nurturing environment where young people feel encouraged to learn, express themselves, and grow with confidence.
Dorothy’s steady leadership and heartfelt commitment bring strength, structure, and warmth to the organization every day.
Board Members
Africano Waltham is guided by a Board of Directors who provide oversight, accountability, and strategic support to ensure the organization remains rooted in its mission and community values.
- Maria DiMaggio – Board President
- John Weinstein - Board member
- Allan Mugisa - Treasurer
Volunteers
Our volunteers are the heart of Africano Waltham. Coming from diverse backgrounds, they generously share their time, skills, and care to support programs, events, and families throughout the year.
We are grateful for every volunteer who shows up for our community.
- Mildred Kawere
- Grace Kamara
- Margaret Kigala
- Perry Tibagwa
- Douglas Kirunda
- Bridget Kamanzi
- Ziad Ssenkooto
- Kasimu Jjumba
- Erina Kunoobwa
Advisory Board
The Advisory Board provides guidance, insight, and professional expertise to support Africano Waltham’s growth, programs, and long-term vision. Members serve in an advisory capacity and are not involved in daily operations.
- Doug Waybright
- Walter Leutz
- Lisa Lorgeree
- Betsy Leutz
- Jonathan Goldman
Our Values
& Commitment
At Africano Waltham, leadership and service are guided by shared values of integrity, inclusion, transparency, and care. We are committed to creating safe, welcoming spaces where families feel respected, supported, and heard.
Voices from Our Community
