ABOUT US
OUR STORY
Seeing a Need and Responding
Ubuntu Wellness is an IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was born from a deep belief in collective healing, the idea that “I am because we are.” In a world where too many communities are left without access to compassionate care, we saw the urgent need for a space that centers wellness through culture, connection, and community strength.
Founded by mental health professionals and community advocates, Ubuntu Wellness grew from lived experience and a shared vision: to restore hope, heal hearts, and empower individuals across generations. We recognize that true well-being is holistic, it includes the mind, body, spirit, and the systems that surround us.
Our work began with one-on-one care and has grown into a global movement rooted in compassion and cultural humility. Whether we're walking beside young people as they discover their purpose, holding space for people in need of restoration, or guiding global volunteers through reciprocal serving and learning, our mission remains the same: To create safe spaces where people feel seen, heard, and whole.
OUR MISSION
Healing Hearts, Empowering Communities
Ubuntu Wellness exists to make healing accessible by offering culturally rooted, compassionate mental health care to underserved communities across Africa, starting in Rwanda.
As a nonprofit rooted in the belief that “I am because we are,” we work to restore hope, heal hearts, and uplift communities through mental wellness programs that honor culture, identity, and lived experience. We serve individuals across generations through youth empowerment workshops, healing circles, school-based initiatives, and one-on-one therapy. We believe wellness is not a privilege, it’s a human right. And we’re here to ensure no one walks their healing journey alone.
OUR VISION
Together We Heal
We envision a world where every person regardless of geography, history, or identity has access to the mental health care they deserve. Ubuntu Wellness dreams of communities that are not only surviving, but flourishing. We imagine a future where trauma is met with support, where grief is honored, and where healing is shared. In this world, care is culturally responsive, locally led, and globally supported.
Through collective action and deep community engagement, we are helping to build systems of care rooted in equity, compassion, and wholeness.
CORE VALUES
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BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Ubuntu Wellness is guided by a passionate and visionary Board of Directors dedicated to advancing holistic health, mental wellness, and community empowerment. Together, they bring diverse expertise, deep commitment, and shared purpose to support Ubuntu’s mission across Africa and beyond.
As a mental health professional, I believe healing should be accessible to all. After witnessing the impact of a lack of mental health availability during a 2024 trip to Rwanda, I was inspired to create Ubuntu Wellness, a nonprofit grounded in the belief that every person holds inherent worth and deserves the care, support, and dignity to heal.
What began as a response to an urgent need has grown into a long-term commitment to mental health equity, both locally and globally. Ubuntu Wellness works across communities to increase access to compassionate care through peer support, clinical services, education, and culturally grounded healing spaces. It is important to remember that individual healing is inseparable from community wholeness.
As President, I have the privilege of guiding our mission, building partnerships, and walking alongside a team of passionate individuals who believe in the transformative power of collective care. My goal is to not only expand access to mental health services, but to shift the way we talk about healing, with more empathy, more inclusivity, and more hope.
Founder, President
Krista McCowen, MA, LLPC
As Vice President of Ubuntu Wellness, I’m honored to support a mission that deeply aligns with my passion for healing, connection, and community well-being. Originally from Rwanda, I bring both a personal and professional commitment to seeing individuals and communities heal, not just physically, but emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.
I’m currently pursuing a master’s degree in the United States to become a licensed clinical mental health professional. This journey equips me with the tools and cross-cultural experience to serve both our U.S. team and Ubuntu’s work on the ground in Rwanda with depth and care.
A core part of my role is helping bridge Ubuntu’s operations between the U.S. and Rwanda. I work to ensure our programs and partnerships reflect the heart of Ubuntu and that our efforts remain culturally rooted, accessible, and driven by community needs.
My greatest desire is to see my fellow Rwandans heal, grow, and thrive in every dimension of life. I believe that when we invest in mental and emotional well-being, we restore dignity, strengthen families, and empower communities for generations to come.
Vice President
Joel Ndatimana, MA Candidate in Clinical Mental Health
As Secretary of Ubuntu Wellness, I bring a background in both adult and children’s mental health, rooted in the belief that everyone deserves to feel whole, mentally, emotionally, and physically. My experience has shown me how vital it is for people to be supported in ways that honor their dignity, stories, and unique journeys.
I’m deeply committed to Ubuntu’s mission and passionate about helping others feel confident, seen, and valued. I believe mental wellness isn’t a luxury and that everyone should have access to the care and community they need to thrive.
In this role, I hope to uplift individuals and help create spaces that feel safe, and empowering. Whether through advocacy, planning, or simply being a compassionate presence, I aim to contribute to a culture where healing is possible, and no one has to walk alone.
Secretary
Katlyn Moonan, MA, LLMSW