Mary Wanjiku Waithira is a dedicated youth development practitioner with strong expertise in counselling, community development, and diplomatic negotiation. She holds a Certificate in Counselling from the University of Nairobi, a Diploma in Community Development, and additional professional training in Diplomatic Negotiation from the International College of Peace Studies.

Mary has a proven track record in youth mentorship and employability training, gained through her impactful work with ANGAZA AFRICA and YMCA, where she equipped young people with essential job- readiness skills. Her passion for youth empowerment is further demonstrated through her role at Mothers’ Mercy Home Youth Centre (JKR) under Cargo Human Care, where she played a key role in developing and implementing an effective youth exit strategy.

As a Programs Coordinator, Mary has cultivated extensive experience in partner management, donor relations—both local and international—and fundraising. Her work involves designing and executing youth-centered programs, fostering strategic partnerships, and ensuring that young people transition into independent, productive futures.

She is currently CAVU Africa’s partners and fundraising coordinator and in this role, she leads the development and execution of fundraising strategy. Identifying emerging environmental challenges and design innovative community engagement. She oversees partnerships and partner related project planning, budgeting, implementation and monitoring to achieve measurable impact. Facilitates multi-stakeholder collaborations to promote environmental education and green practices. She writes grant proposals, concept notes and partnership pitches to attract funding. Manages donor relations and ensures timely reporting, accountability and impact communication. Driven, compassionate, and results-oriented, Mary is committed to creating opportunities that enable youth to thrive and reach their full potential.