Our Volunteers:
Kinshasa:
In Congo:
Georgette Nyembo Faila (MA Food Science)
Founding Director, FIDES Home for Children and Le Chevronné School
Georgette Nyembo Faila has turned a childhood dream into a transformative reality. From a young age, she envisioned herself caring for and educating orphaned children—a vision that would shape her life’s work. In 2002, Georgette began teaching street children, and since then, she has founded and led the FIDES Home for Children and the Le Chevronné primary and secondary school.
Under her leadership, FIDES has become a haven for 54 children, providing them with a loving home and the opportunity to pursue their education. The school she established serves not only the children in her care but the surrounding community as well, empowering the next generation to dream bigger and reach further.
Georgette’s vision is one of continuity and legacy. She aspires to pass on the responsibility of this mission to her “children” as they mature, allowing them to carry the work forward and ensure that the cycle of hope, opportunity, and community endures for generations to come.
In Canada:
Tim Cruickshank (MA)
Chairperson
Tim Cruickshank brings a strong background in international collaboration and leadership to his role as Chairperson of Congo’s Children. With eight years of experience in directing study abroad programming and current training in spiritual care, Tim is dedicated to fostering teamwork and amplifying the impact of Congo’s Children’s mission. His focus is on strengthening communication and partnerships to support FIDES Home for Children and Le Chevronné School.
JohnDavid Pankratz (MBA)
Vice Chair,
JD brings extensive experience in accounting and program management to his role, having worked with both local and international not-for-profit organizations, including a three-year stint in Zambia. A passionate advocate for children’s education, JD has visited FIDES more than a dozen times, often staying overnight to gain a deeper understanding of the children’s daily routines and the scope of Georgette’s influence on their lives. He enjoys collaborating with Georgette in providing an ever-better foundation for the children’s growth and maturity.
Kim Fast
Bookkeeper and Event Planner
Kim Fast brings strong administrative and event planning skills to her role. With a hands-on approach and natural leadership, she takes initiative and gets things done. After spending two formative years in Africa, Kim developed a deep interest in the continent, which she shares with her husband, Zakk, who has spent time at Georgette’s Home. Kim is passionate about Georgette and her work, wanting to ensure she feels supported by the committee. Kim’s goal is that the students at FIDES earn professional certifications that will empower them to support their families and contribute to their communities.
Rachel Bergman (RN).
Secretary and event planner
Rachel joined the Congo’s Children board alongside her friend Kim and was quickly drawn to Georgette’s deep commitment to helping her children succeed beyond high school. She values the organization’s focused mission of supporting post-secondary education and believes strongly in the long-term vision that underlies all of Georgette’s work. Based in Winnipeg, Rachel works as a nurse practitioner.
In 2025, Congo’s Children—a volunteer-led organization—will, with deep appreciation, surpass $1,000,000 in total fundraising! This incredible milestone reflects the generosity and trust of our donors, who have empowered us, alongside Georgette, to invest in the well-being of the children at FIDES and the bright futures of their families.
Our 2% overhead pays for audits, insurance, website hosting, and bank fees.
Other ways you can partner with us:
- Ask to be on our (occasional) email list – we’ll send you a twice a year newsletter and invite you to events three to four times a year;
- Donate monthly
- Donate a one-time or occasional gift;
- Contribute your skills in social media, writing, networking, or other skills;
- Invite one of us to speak to your group about Georgette’s Home