Despina Namwembe is a social scientist with a Masters in Peace and Conflict Studies. She coordinates the work of over 30 grassroots interfaith organizations doing different social action in the Great Lakes countries of Africa. Despina is a community organizer, and trainer who also mentors many in organizational development. Growing up in a continent that sometimes fuses strong customs with religion to deter full women participation, Despina has passion for addressing issues that support women and girls achieve their full life potential. She is widely traveled something that has helped her conceive many life changing situations outside the box. She is also a contributor to different literature in the areas of interfaith, gender, environment and peace building.