David Suze Manda, co-founder of Connecting CongoDavid Suze Manda

  • Masters degree in International Studies on Peace, Conflict and Development, at the Universitat Jaume I in Castellón, Spain.
  • Currently working on his Ph.D. (defending it this July!)
  • Publishes various commentaries and articles related to DRCongo.
  • Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo; Currently residing in the state of Washington in the United States
  • Lived in: D.R. Congo, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Spain
  • Fluent in 3 languages; well versed in additional 3

David has always had a passion for helping people around the world, and he always knew he would eventually help his homeland. Born and raised in D.R. Congo, David has an incredibly adventurous life. From ministering around the world (see visited countries above) to witnessing his country being torn apart by war, David sought an education that would prepare him to be the kind of leader his hometown needed.

While working on his Ph.D., David and his wife, Mary, have founded an organization to connect the people of D.R. Congo to the world. He understands the value of knowledge, access to information, education, and connection. Unfortunately, not everyone gets the opportunity to travel and receive an education like David. Instead of finding ways to send thousands of people around the world, David has found a way to bring the world to them.

 

Mary Manda, co-founder of Connecting CongoMary Manda

  • Registered Nurse (R.N.)
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Pacific Lutheran University. 
  • Currently working full time as an R.N. in addition to organizing Project Mtandao.
  • Born in Alaska, grew up in Idaho, currently residing in the state of Washington in the United States with her husband, David Suze Manda.
  • Traveled to: Italy, Spain, France, Switzerland, Germany, and England
  • Studying French, Swahili, and Spanish

Mary, much like her husband, has always had a heart for helping. Every day Mary works to make our world a better place, and she's excited to extend her efforts to her husband's homeland. 

While working on her Bachelors degree in nursing, Mary and David had countless conversations and brainstorming sessions on ways they could help D.R. Congo. After much consideration and research, they realized that Project Mtandao would be perfect.

Mary sought a degree in nursing because she always knew she wanted to help people – in some capacity. Being a nurse allows her to connect with people in need every day. Whether it's a simple hello, a smile, or a more complicated medical procedure – Mary has always known how to brighten someone's day. Now she has found a way to share her passion for knowledge, love, and humanity beyond the hospital.