Stepping into 2026: Building Bridges to A Better Malawi.

“Meaningful change is never the result of intention alone. It requires consistent effort, strong partnership, and the trust of communities who choose to walk with us’. - James Gondwe

At Ulalo every new year calls for reflection and renewed purpose. As we step into 2026, we are reminded that every programme, activity and any acts of service contribute to building bridges that help children and young people reach their full potential.   

This journey is shaped by communities, staff, volunteers, and partners whose courage and commitment endure even when the road is complex and hope is lost. Ulalo exists because we believe in the ability of young people and their communities to shape the future of Malawi when given the right opportunities trust and support.  

Fanwell Nyirenda our IT Lead geared up and ready to serve!

Ulalo is committed to building bridges to a better Malawi by enabling children and youth to thrive. Our work is grounded in the belief that young people are not merely beneficiaries of development, but they are innovators and co-creators of impactful and lasting change.  

We work across four interconnected focus areas: education, health ecosystems, thriving communities, and livelihoods through entrepreneurship. Through these pillars, we aim to maximize potential, expand opportunities, and create spaces where children and young people do not just survive, but truly thrive.   

Reflecting on the year behind us, our Executive Director, James Gondwe, captured the heart of Ulalo.  

“The year 2025 reminded us that meaningful change is never the result of intention alone. It requires consistent effort, strong partnership, and the trust of communities who choose to walk with us.”  

As we enter 2026, Ulalo does so with deep gratitude, renewed clarity, and a strong sense of responsibility. We are thankful to the communities we serve, whose insights, leadership, and ownership shape every success we achieve. We are equally grateful to our partners and supporters who believe in our mission and walk alongside us to make it possible. To our staff and volunteers to extend our sincere appreciation, your dedication turns ideas into measurable impacts.  

Looking ahead, our focus for 2026 is clear. As emphasized by our Executive Director. Ulalo is focusing on deepening impact rather than spreading ourselves thinly. We will focus on strengthening partnerships rooted in shared values, purpose, and mutual accountability. At the same time, we are holding ourselves to the highest standards of transparency and integrity, recognizing that every resource entrusted to Ulalo representshope, trust and responsibility.  

We also remain committed to humility in a constantly changing world; we may not have all answers, but we are committed to listening closely to communities we serve, learning continuously and responding with practical, locally grounded solutions.  

Despite the challenges that remain, we enter 2026 with optimism. This is not because the work is easy but because our diverse and collective experience is stronger, our partnerships are deeper, and our relationships with the communities are more firmly rooted.  

Together, through your continued support and engagement, we will keep building pathways that enable children, young people, and their communities to thrive today and into the future.   

We wish you a Happy New Year as we continue walking together in driving change by building a better Malawi.