Learn a bit about the team making One World Together what it is - including you!
An idea for transformation is nothing without the people that come together to back it.
One World Together, and all the possibilities it offers for more impactful and community-driven development, wouldn’t be here without you. We’re delighted that you’ve joined a movement of ordinary people, achieving extraordinary things.
Niki and Chibwe met in the Reimagining the International NGO Social Lab and quickly bonded over the need to move beyond tweaking existing systems and build an entirely new one based on principles of trust, solidarity and equity. In 2023 they founded One World Together with the goal of putting a new generation of committed supporters of global development at the heart of radical change.
They are Company Directors, however they see their role in One World Together as stewards, working closely with the broader team and magnificent Youth Board to shape One World Together’s strategy, journey and learning. Employed by their Universities, neither Niki or Chibwe take any income from One World Together. You can learn more about them below.
Founder and Chief Co-Steward
Increasingly uncomfortable with researching development NGOs in a fundamentally flawed system, Niki set to work designing a radical new system of giving, free of the inequalities facing the broader charity sector. Working at the University of Manchester’s Global Development Institute she saw the potential of her passionate and committed students in making this a success. Outside of work she enjoys raising her own two Global Citizens, Benny and Maddie, and keeping fit in her local Crossfit box.
Feel free to get in touch at n.banks@oneworldtogether.org.uk.
Chibwe experienced the complexities and frustrations of the UK’s international charity sector first hand in her 18 years of working in it. This inspired her passion for a new system to overcome these challenges and One World Together draws upon her strong track record of building local, national and international charities.
Alongside working as a Lecturer for Queen Mary University of London’s School of Business and Management, Chibwe is a committed advocate for enhancing the role of African Diaspora in development, and sees One World Together as an opportunity to further foster African Diaspora’s contributions as powerful agents of sustainable development in their countries of origin and residency.
Feel free to get in touch at c.henry@oneworldtogether.org.uk.
Operations Manager
Skyler began her journey with One World Together as a dedicated member of the Youth Board, all while pursuing her Master’s in Global Development at the University of Manchester.
Driven by a passion for sustainable development, Skyler brings a wealth of diverse experiences in nonprofits management from her pivotal roles at US-based organisations, such as EARTHDAY.ORG and the Environment Education Fund.
In her down time, you can find Skyler finding solace through training at the gym or boxing, enjoying a movie night with her flatmates, or traveling to new places around the world!
Feel free to get in touch at s.colarusso@oneworldtogether.org.uk.
Head of Individual Giving
Laura is a Manchester University alumnus, completing her Master’s in International Development in 2015. She has worked in the charitable and technology sectors, with a particular focus on supporting grassroots organisations. Most recently, Laura spent six years working with charities across Canada, helping them strengthen their fundraising capacity and build confidence in their digital literacy.
Passionate about creating lasting impact through collaboration and innovation, Laura brings both strategic insight and hands-on experience to her work. Outside of work, Laura enjoys exploring new places, discovering great restaurants and going for (very slow) runs.
Feel free to get in touch at l.dempsey@oneworldtogether.org.uk.
Next Generation for Change Director
Over the last 25 years, Helen has been motivated by a belief in the power of people to create change. Her work with One World Together leading the Next Generation for Change program brings together her experiences as teacher, lecturer, researcher and in development and humanitarian practice. She also works at the University of Manchester leading the Global Development Institute’s Research for Transformation Lab.
Beyond work, Helen is happiest when outside for sunrise, whether on the water competing for Trafford Rowing Club or camping with her own little global citizen and family.
Next Generation for Change Officer
Nele joined the Youth Board of One World Together while pursuing her Master’s in Global Development at the University of Manchester.
Driven by the belief that education is a powerful catalyst for change, she is passionate about inspiring the next generation of changemakers. With her valuable experience in education and social movement research, Nele promotes innovative approaches to learning by designing meaningful learning experiences, leading youth-led initiatives, and fostering intercultural collaboration.
In her free time, she enjoys exploring the world – whether discovering new cities, immersing herself in different cultures, or setting off on a hiking adventure.