Youth-Led Leadership at the Core

At Indigenous Voices Uganda (IVU), our work is driven by indigenous youth. From the executive team to our volunteers, every member brings passion, knowledge, and lived experience to empower marginalized communities and protect cultural heritage.

Executive Leadership

Co-leading IVU’s youth empowerment initiatives, John oversees the implementation of programs under the REACH framework, ensuring they are impactful and culturally relevant.

Mugenyi Barongo

A lawyer and indigenous youth leader, Geofrey has dedicated his career to advocating for the rights of Uganda’s indigenous communities. He leads IVU’s strategy, partnerships, and overall vision.

Joy sanyu
Geofrey WaakoFounder & Executive Director

Cultural Heritage Officer

Katusabe Mwene

Community Mobilization & Youth Engagement Officer

Women & Girls Empowerment Officer

Co-leading IVU’s youth empowerment initiatives, John oversees the implementation of programs under the REACH framework, ensuring they are impactful and culturally relevant.

Apalot Nakiru

Wembatsya John OkonProgram Manager

Our Team

Our team includes a dynamic group of indigenous youth from Batwa, Benet, and other communities, each contributing skills in:

  • Project coordination and research

  • Community engagement and advocacy

  • Education, health, and environmental programming

  • Communications and fundraising

We pride ourselves on having a youth-driven, culturally grounded team that reflects the communities we serve.


a couple of men sitting next to each other
a couple of men sitting next to each other

Why Our Team Matters

By placing youth at the center of decision-making, we ensure that programs are not only for indigenous youth but by indigenous youth. This approach strengthens leadership, builds resilience, and ensures solutions are relevant, sustainable, and community-led.

Volunteers & Advisors

IVU works with a network of passionate volunteers and mentors who provide guidance, technical expertise, and support to strengthen programs and amplify indigenous voices.