Ulalo Staff Retreat 2025 Strengthens Collaboration to Accelerate Impact
Open dialogue in action — Ulalo staff engage in meaningful conversations during the Annual Staff Retreat 2025.
Staff members from Ulalo gathered in Salima for the Annual Staff Retreat 2025, held under the theme: “Reflect, Align, and Accelerate: Strengthening Collaboration for Greater Impact.”
The three-day event was designed to foster collaboration, reflection, and bold planning for the year ahead, ensuring that every action contributes to meaningful change for children and young people in Malawi.
The first two days were business as usual, but with exciting new elements. Departments participated in the first-ever panel discussion, allowing staff to ask questions through an anonymous platform creating space for open dialogue.
For the first time, Ulalo also hosted a “Conversation with the Executive Director” session, giving staff the opportunity to engage directly with leadership.
Day three marked the retreat portion, focused on team bonding and fun. Staff strengthened connections through football, volleyball, sack races, and swimming, blending play with purpose.
James Gondwe, Executive Director, reflected on the retreat’s significance.
“This retreat is more than a meeting. It is a moment to plan boldly, align our energies, and accelerate our impact for children and youth across Malawi.”
Ulalo staff bring energy and laughter to the sack race challenge during the 2025 Annual Staff Retreat in Salima
Grivin Mpoha, District Coordinator for Likoma District, added:
“The retreat reminded us that collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. When we come together, we can achieve far more than as individuals.”
Chifundo Zingunde, Communications Officer, presented the “Count on Me” concept, calling on everyone at Ulalo to take ownership and be the team member the organization can count on.
“Each of us has a role to play. Let’s be the ones Ulalo counts on to drive change and make a difference.” Said Chifundo.
Director of Resources and Administration, Chifundo Chidumu, takes on Tech Lead, Fanuel Nyirenda, in a friendly beach soccer challenge during the Ulalo Staff Retreat 2025.
The Annual Staff Retreat 2025 was more than a getaway it was a chance to reflect, align, and energize the team. With renewed focus and strengthened bonds, Ulalo staff are ready to tackle the year ahead with innovation, collaboration, and a shared commitment to empowering Malawi’s children, youth, and women.
Pictorial of the Retreat
