Meet the Team
Behind every smile, schoolbag, and success story at Children of the Dump is a dedicated team working across the UK and the Philippines. Together, we’re committed to helping children break free from the cycle of poverty through education, care, and opportunity.
Our UK Team
Our small UK team keeps the wheels turning—coordinating sponsorships, fundraising, donor communications, and day-to-day operations. Passionate and hands-on, we work closely with our Filipino colleagues to ensure your support makes the greatest impact.
Our Philippines Team
On the ground in Manila, our experienced and compassionate staff are the heart of our work. From teachers and social workers to Child Caregivers and project managers, they create safe spaces where children can learn, grow, and thrive—no matter their background.
Together, we're one team, united by a shared belief: that every child deserves a chance to shine.
UK Team
Kay
Kay brings many years of experience and a deep commitment to the charity’s mission. As Chair of the Board, she provides strategic guidance, leadership, and encouragement to the whole team. Kay is a passionate advocate for education and child welfare, ensuring that every decision made supports the best outcomes for the children we serve.
John
Based in the UK, John manages the day-to-day operations of the charity, supporter communications, and donor engagement. With a heart for social justice, he works closely with the team in Manila to ensure each child’s story is heard and every donation made makes a real difference.
Mark
Mark has been involved with the charity for over 5 years, first getting involved as a volunteer who was motivated by a desire to help those who needed it most. Over the years Mark has got more involved as he has seen the impact the charity has made on those in Manila.
Fred
A Trustee for over 20 years, Fred has seen the charity’s impact on children in poverty firsthand. Along with his wife Kay, he’s sponsored a Mango child now in university. Fred focuses on recruiting trustees and volunteers and is proud of the difference the charity makes in children’s lives.
Lydia
Lydia has been involved with Children of the Dump (ASCT) for over 16 years, first inspired by her sister, Alison. She began as a sponsor and later visited Mango House in Manila — a life-changing experience that led her to become a trustee. Lydia says the love and gratitude from the children is humbling, and it’s her privilege to be part of a charity that truly feels like one big family.
Mike
Mike has supported CotD for many years, initially through David Cox. After retiring from a career in the Health Service of Zambia and as Head of Environmental Health at British Airways, With experience witnessing child suffering globally, he now focuses on providing education to improve the lives of disadvantaged children.
Benet
Benet is from the Philippines and lives in the UK. She started as a volunteer over 5 years ago and is now a trustee. Benet is passionate about helping other people with a strong commitment to creating positive change.
Alison
Alison served as Office Manager at Children on the Dump for over a decade before joining the Board of Trustees. Having visited Manila several times, she witnessed the life-changing power of education for the children supported by the charity. She now brings her wealth of third-sector experience to help the organisation grow and thrive.
Kat
Originally from the Philippines, Kat brings both financial expertise and lived experience to the team. Now based in London, she’s passionate about giving back and helping create brighter futures for children through education and care.
Michael
Michael supports the charity in a variety of ways, from fundraising to community events. He enjoys the hands-on nature of volunteering and the chance to make a real difference in children’s lives through simple but powerful actions.
Clarissa
A long-time community leader and volunteer, Clarissa has supported CotD for over two years and led charity events through BFBA in Reading for 25+ years. Grateful for the blessings in her own family life, she’s passionate about giving back to children in need in the Philippines
Phillippines Team
Chrisler
Chrisler heads the team in Manila, supporting the education, care, and community outreach work of the charity. His calm leadership and focus on sustainability are helping guide the organisation through a season of transition and growth.
Mary Ann A
Mary Ann A is a mission-driven social worker with over 10 years of experience in residential care, child protection, and case management. She also brings expertise in fundraising, trauma-informed care, advocacy, and regulatory compliance, supported by her background in Public Administration.
Maryane
Maryane oversees the Mango, Grapevine, and Cashew programs with compassion and purpose. Working closely with dedicated teams, she helps create nurturing environments where children are not only cared for—but empowered.
Vernard
Vernard is the friendly face many of the Grapevine children know best. He supports them through home visits, guidance sessions, and Saturday enrichment activities—always championing their full potential.
Jocelyn
Jocelyn leads the Cashew Tree School team with creativity, compassion, and a deep love for learning. She’s especially passionate about giving every child the best start possible, no matter their background.
Jenny
Jenny is a Program Officer at Mango Tree House – ASCF, where she oversees education, nutrition, and care for children living at Mango Tree House. Passionate about creating safe and supportive environments, she works closely with local partners to deliver programs that empower children and give them hope for a brighter future.
Mango Tree Child Caregivers
Our dedicated Child Caregivers provide stability, care, and encouragement to the children who call Mango Tree House their home. Their everyday presence is the foundation for trust, healing, and hope.
Christine
Deborah
