Meet Our Team
Holistic Schools Team
Founder and Chief Executive Officer
Michael Louis Phiri is the Founder and visionary leader with 8 years of expertise in human development. He has special expertise in child and adolescent development, school counseling, and research. Michael is currently a graduate student at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, a Global Center for International Development Research Fellow, a Global Health Cops Fellowship Alumnus, and a Member of the Harvard Innovation Lab.
Director of Programs and Operations
Francisca Chisompola has a professional background in procurement and social work. Recently, she has focused her work on the psychosocial well-being of children and their communities. She has extensive experience in community-based work with children and youths, school counseling, and learner support.
Co-Founder and Executive Director
Dr Derick Singogo, PhD, is an Educational Psychologist, co-founder, and counselor with 17 years of experience as an educator, dedicated to equipping schools with tools to foster emotional resilience. His recent work has focused on the use of Universal Design for Learning to promote inclusive teaching among early childhood teachers.
Holistic Schools Team
Director Training and Curriculum Implementation
Lizzy Mzumara serves as the Director Training and Curriculum Implementation at Holistic Schools Africa, bringing over 9 years of hands-on experience in child, adolescent, and caregiver coaching. With a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a deep passion for psychosocial development, Lizzy leads the organization’s strategy and implementation of caregiver training programs, psychosocial support interventions, and holistic child development initiatives. Her role focuses on designing and delivering context-relevant training for educators and caregivers, supporting the emotional, spiritual, and academic well-being of children across diverse learning environments. As an expert public speaker and curriculum facilitator, Lizzy ensures that every caregiver and teacher within our network is equipped with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to nurture emotionally resilient learners. Her leadership is grounded in the belief that transforming the lives of children starts with empowering those who care for and educate them every day.
