Our Team

Ken Machisa

Sioux Falls, South Dakota

“Raised in a home with an emphasis on learning and serving, Rise Literacy Zambia is a natural outpouring of many areas in my life. With a desire to use the insight I have as a Zambian, combined with business skills, I am confident that Rise Literacy Zambia is an effort that has the power to impact communities in a positive manner. ”

Laura Machisa

Sioux Falls, South Dakota

“Books were always in our home. I knew from a young age the value and joy of reading. As a teacher, I am more convinced every year of the importance of strong literacy skills and the access to reading materials. I am so excited to be a part of the launch of Rise Literacy Zambia.”

Diane Gratopp

Lincoln, Nebraska

“I can see that Rise Literacy Zambia has been developing in my heart for many years. As an adventurer, an avid reader and a lover of words, it is a thrill to be sharing books with others. My interest in language and culture pairs well with my interest in literacy and I’m thankful to be a part of this venture. “

Bright Chikwanda

Livingstone, Zambia

"I have been tutoring and working with kids in the local area for a few years now. I am very passionate about working with children and young people. Rise Literacy Zambia is a very good opportunity that is creating a safe place for children and young people to learn and develop a reading culture. Rise can help our local youth to develop the environment they live in and make a better world for all of us."

Isaac Chilemu

Livingstone, Zambia

I have always loved reading and working with kids, I think Rise Literacy Zambia is a great opportunity for kids and young people to explore, learn and discover the many opportunities the world has to offer. Kids can travel to many different parts of the world through reading and that is just so exciting! I am super excited for what Rise Literacy will be able to accomplish!

Advisory Board

Keri Daffer

Lincoln, Nebraska

“What an exciting opportunity to be a part of RISE Literacy Zambia. As a kindergarten teacher, my job is to continually be finding ways to get kids excited about reading and learning. Finding quality, engaging books to help children of all ages in Zambia has been on my heart for a couple of years now. It’s been fun to see this little dream come to fruition. I’m thrilled to be a part of this important, life changing work.”

Kellen Hackett

Kirkland, Washington

“I’ve seen the impact that reading can have on a child firsthand. Combine that with my love for the people in Zambia and the opportunity to be a part of this organization was one of the easiest decisions I’ve ever made.”

Julie Whitman

Lincoln, Nebraska

“As a former elementary teacher, reading is a passion of mine! Ministering to people of other nations has also played a significant role in my life. I love bringing these two interests together!”

Lori Applegate

Lincoln, Nebraska

“I have always loved to read and find it sad that not everyone has the opportunity to learn/practice reading. It’s exciting to be a part of an organization where providing these opportunities is the goal. As an accountant, I like words as well as numbers!