Meet Rahel

Rahel Mwitula-Williams is the Director of Innovation and Ideas with one of the largest denominations in the U.S., having previously served as the Director of Global Mission Funding. She is a nonprofit development consultant specializing in working with major donors both in the United States and internationally.

Born and raised in Tanzania, East Africa, she migrated to the USA with her family at the age of 12. She holds a B.S. in Psychology from Loyola University, a Master of Science in International Public Service from DePaul University, and an Executive Scholar Certificate in Non-Profit Management from Northwestern Kellogg. Rahel was awarded a Fulbright-Hays Group Projects Abroad Fellowship to study in Arusha, Tanzania. Her achievements also include presenting at Northwestern University as a TEDx speaker on the topic "Redefining Philanthropy: Faces of Change Makers."

She is the founder and Creative Director of ILAVA, a social enterprise that uses fashion to inspire and implement global change, and the Executive Director of ILAVA Gives Back, the philanthropic arm of ILAVA, working with organizations in Tanzania and Uganda. Her projects include the Msichana Initiative, Empowered Girls, and CAPAIDS, with initiatives such as One Girl, One Bike, Comfy Period, and One Girl, One Machine.

Rahel is also the Chief Trip Curator for Travel with ILAVA. With a rich background in both the Global South and the Global North, she is an accomplished international trip curator specializing in East Africa, particularly Tanzania. Her expertise lies in crafting unforgettable journeys, drawing upon her deep knowledge of the region and her passion for creating enriching experiences. Her Tanzanian roots provide an insider’s perspective, allowing her to showcase hidden gems and cultural wonders.

She serves as a board member for ILAVA Gives Back, Chicago Fair Trade, and Pangea Education. She firmly believes in breaking down socioeconomic barriers to giving and collaborates with individuals, teams, and organizations to foster a culture and lifestyle of philanthropy.

A testament to her adventurous spirit, Rahel achieved a significant milestone in 2023 by climbing to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, marking it as one of her proudest moments. She documented her journey in the film "Chasing Uhuru Peak: Mt. Kilimanjaro Experience.