African Diaspora Youth

Our Founders

Meet the people behind African Diaspora Youth.

Magdalene Njuguna, MSW

President, African Diaspora Youth

Magdalene Njuguna is a seasoned clinical social worker with extensive expertise in mental health and substance use treatment for both youth and adults. She holds a master’s degree in Social Work and a minor in Psychology from Anna Maria College in Paxton, Massachusetts. As a clinician with Mobile Crisis Intervention (MCI), she provides urgent, community-based support for individuals facing emotional or substance-related crises through assessment, de-escalation, stabilization, and follow-up care. Passionate about youth empowerment—especially among boys—Magdalene co-founded African Diaspora Youth, a grassroots organization created by mothers to nurture and uplift the next generation. In response to the mental health challenges heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic, she has led initiatives offering counseling, outdoor support gatherings, and community-based healing efforts in both the U.S. and Kenya. Recognized for her advocacy and leadership, Magdalene remains deeply committed to fostering mental wellness and creating safe, supportive spaces for youth and families in underserved communities.

Beth Wangari, MSN, RN

Vice President, African Diaspora Youth

– Nurse Leader Bridging Cultures & Empowering the Next Generation. Beth Wangari is a dedicated healthcare leader with over 20 years of experience in clinical care and nursing leadership. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and a Master of Science in Nursing Leadership from Framingham State University. Throughout her career, Beth has held key roles in hospice, pediatric care, home health, addiction and detox, and rehabilitation—serving as Charge Nurse, Nurse Manager, Clinical Coordinator, and Branch Director. Currently serving above the African Desk, Beth combines her clinical expertise with deep cultural insight to advocate for African immigrants and their families. Her work centers on breaking health barriers, improving health literacy, and ensuring equitable access to care across diverse communities. Beyond her professional commitments, Beth is passionate about mentorship and community empowerment. She actively supports African youth in building confidence, pursuing opportunities, and developing leadership skills. She also serves as Treasurer of the Finest Sisterhood of Worcester and as a Board Member of CHANGE, a nonprofit organization advancing health education in Worcester and Liberia.

Susan Bantu, MEd, MA

Secretary, African Diaspora Youth

Susan Bantu is a mental health therapist, author, and youth advocate with a bold commitment to women and youth empowerment. She holds two master's degrees, one in counseling and another in African American and African studies. She is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Mental Health Counseling. With over a decade of experience in school counseling and community mental health, Susan has become a trusted guide for individuals and families navigating trauma, identity, and generational cycles. Susan is also a published author of several psychology education books, using her voice to demystify mental health and make healing accessible across cultures. Her passion for youth development led to the creation of the African Diaspora Youth, an initiative she co-founded alongside a powerful circle of mothers, united in their mission to support and elevate African youth in the diaspora. Grounded, driven, and deeply compassionate, Susan is known as a hardwire. A woman who shows up, speaks up, and does the work.

Naomi Maina

Treasurer, African Diaspora Youth

Naomi Maina is a nurse. Her nursing career, spanning two decades, is distinguished by its remarkable diversity. Her professional path has led her to work in a wide range of healthcare settings, including med-surge units, rehabilitation facilities, geriatric care centers, psychiatric facilities, and rehabilitation centers specializing in drug, alcohol, and mental health issues. This broad spectrum of experience has granted Naomi a unique perspective on the multifaceted nature of healthcare, fostering a deep commitment to mental health. Currently, she is channeling her energy into empowering teenagers to adopt healthy lifestyles and realize their full potential. Highlighting the need for patience, resilience and empathy in caring for the whole person.

Elizabeth Gacau-M.

Director, African Diaspora Youth

Elizabeth Gacau-M. is a devoted mother, compassionate nurse, and inspiring community leader whose unwavering dedication to family and service continues to uplift those around her. A proud mother of two teenagers, she balances her demanding nursing career with a deep passion for giving back. Through her volunteerism and collaboration with other committed mothers, Elizabeth has helped spearhead initiatives that empower African youths across New England. Her work with the African Youth Diaspora program reflects her steadfast belief in nurturing the next generation of leaders and creating spaces where young people can thrive, connect, and grow with pride in their heritage.

Faith Mwihaki

Director, African Diaspora Youth

I bring a strong background in management along with extensive training and certifications in the mental health field. My passion for working with youth began early, when I volunteered at my church as a Sunday school and youth teacher. That passion grew into a lifelong commitment, leading me to spend over 15 years as a mental health counselor in a psychiatric hospital, specifically supporting adolescents. Throughout my journey, I’ve become known for being a good listener, showing kindness, leading with humility, and offering genuine care. I believe in treating others with love and respect while maintaining healthy boundaries. These values guide me in creating safe, supportive spaces where young people feel heard, valued, and empowered to grow.

Carol Ngunjiri

Director, African Diaspora Youth

Carol Ngunjiri is a compassionate and accomplished healthcare professional with over 14 years of nursing experience. As the owner and Registered Nurse of an Adult Foster Care agency based in Worcester County, she is deeply committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care that supports individuals in the comfort of their homes. Throughout her career, Carol has gained extensive experience across home care, medical-surgical units, geriatrics, and acute care settings. These experiences have strengthened her appreciation for resilience, empathy, and the profound impact of compassionate care. Currently serving in a leadership role, Carol is dedicated to advancing healthcare outcomes while mentoring and empowering the next generation of nurses. Her passion for professional growth and continuous learning drives her mission to make a lasting difference in both patient lives and the broader healthcare community.