BOARD OF DIRECTORS

 

Acting Board Chair and Secretary

Crystal Ferguson

We all have the ability to change a life by giving our greatest assets: time and energy. I am passionate about Children of Uganda because we are building up economies, strengthening education, and emphasizing family empowerment to improve the quality of life for women and youth in Uganda. Together, we make a difference in this world and I am a proud member of the COU family.

Board Chair Emeritus

Cheryl Hargrow

Being on Children of Uganda’s Board of Directors has gifted more to me than I could ever give back to the organization. The children, families, staff and administration are all working toward the same goal: to help Uganda and its citizens realize a country where everyone has value – regardless of background or circumstances.

Treasurer

Janet Olajide

Currently, I am the Chief Financial Officer for one of the oldest and pioneering foster-care organizations in Maryland. I also served as the former Board Treasurer for the African Diaspora Medical Project and have worked in many capacities to serve vulnerable populations. I am an accomplished writer, blogger of inspirational messages and have served as editor to several published books. Additionally, I have been blessed to minister in many churches in the U.S. and Nigeria.

Board Member

Anwar Musa

As a child of a missionary, I learned early that to whom much is given much is required. My vision for an empowered and independent Africa aligns with Children of Uganda’s mission, which led me to join the board in May of 2019. I have over 15 years of experience running sales, marketing and revenue-generating activities for some of the world’s most prestigious hotel companies.

Board Member

Audrey Fairbrother

A seasoned marketing professional with over 15 years of experience, Audrey specializing in tech startups and scaleups. Based in Denver, she loves helping innovative companies grow and succeed. Audrey lives with her husband and two children, and in her free time, enjoys hiking and exploring the great outdoors. She is also a member of the Board of Children of Uganda, where she hopes to contribute her expertise to support the organization's mission

Board Member

Krystal Hydes

I’m originally from the Cayman Islands and moved to the United States when I was 15. Some years later, I earned a Master’s Degree in elementary education. After traveling to Uganda for missions in 2016 and 2018, I developed a heart and deep love for the people, particularly the children. Children of Uganda allows me to be God’s hands and feet in the best way I can be, by supporting His children. When you support COU, you truly are supporting God’s work. 

Board Member

Jonathan Wertman

I am struck by the parallels between the problems needing redress abroad in Uganda and those that I see first-hand here in rural Appalachia.  Growing up and still residing in West Virginia, issues of food insecurity, familial instability and our limited educational resources have always been, and continue to be, blocks in the road to prosperity.  Drawing upon more than a decade of experience as a practicing attorney, I hope to now be an effective advocate for the women, children and families of Uganda.