Born to a single parent, Michael observed his mother’s struggle to provide safe shelter and nourishing food for her son. With only a fractured education and limited economic skills, his mother’s task, like many single mothers, was even more difficult. These early childhood experiences instilled in him a value system and a deep passion for making a difference in the lives of single mothers and vulnerable children.
Michael’s formal education included Theology at the Bachelor’s level, Adult Education in Drake University’s Master’s Programme, and Instructional Design/Educational Technology PhD studies at the University of Iowa. His consulting career focused on human performance and organisational effectiveness. This career path led him to work with numerous large and small commercial and non-profit, spanning professional service firms, large manufacturing operations, healthcare, and insurance. His consultative approach enabled him to support organisational leaders through assessment, data analysis, problem-solving, coaching, and leadership development.
Following a visit to children’s homes in South Asia, Michael returned home to establish Mothers’ Global Village (MGV), an operational foundation formed as a US 501(c)(3) organisation dedicated to supporting single mothers and vulnerable children. MGV has sponsored and administered economic development and education projects in Nepal, Guatemala, Mexico, Ecuador, and Uganda.
Taking early retirement from his consulting practice, he travelled the world by backpack, motorcycle, and later in an overland vehicle. He engaged in small humanitarian projects, eventually leading him to Palestinian and Syrian UNHCR refugee camps in Jordan and Lebanon. In these camps, Michael witnessed the painful struggles of families displaced by war and violence.
Upon arriving in Africa, Michael set out to explore and work in Uganda, the East African country hosting the most refugees on the continent. In the Kyangwali refugee settlement, he observed and deeply connected with CIYOTA’s impactful work with refugees. Partnering with CIYOTA, he sponsored small projects supporting single mothers, provided pro bono consulting services, and now serves on the board. Michael has found a new home in Uganda, where he continues to live and serve.