Meet the team

Maggie Lower

Chair

Maggie Lower is a seasoned modern marketer with more than two decades of executive leadership experience. Most recently, as CMO at Hootsuite, Lower drove global brand success with a multi-award winning global rebrand. She has also led marketing, sales and customer teams at leading brands including Cision, TrueBlue, Aon Hewitt, and Bank of America. As Board Director at Grindr, she was part of the team that helped to take Grindr public on the New York Stock Exchange in 2022. Lower mentors in the U.S. Marketing Academy, fostering diverse talent and LGBTQ+ leadership. She has also been honored as one of AdWeek’s 20 Global PrideStars and is a member of the McKinsey Alliance, an LGBTQ+ executive forum. Lower was recently recognized for the sixth consecutive year by Involve and YouTube on their Outstanding Top 100 LGBT+ Global Executives List, honoring LGBTQ+ executives, future leaders, and allies across global organizations for their work in driving global change; this is her third year in a row in the Top 20. Lower received a BA in History from Hamilton College and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

Brandon Riker

Vice Chair

Brandon Riker has a diverse background in finance, politics, and philanthropy. Since 2017, he has served on Washington College’s Board of Visitors and Governors as a member of the Advancement and Enrollment Committees. He previously served in senior roles at financial services organizations, including ProShares and Teucrium Trading. Riker has also held significant roles in the highest profile Democratic campaigns, including senior positions on President Obama’s 2008 primary and general election campaigns. In addition to a degree in economics from Washington College, Riker holds a master’s degree from the London School of Economics.

Marnie Webb

Secretary

Marnie Webb is the Chief Community Impact Officer for TechSoup and leads Caravan Studios, a division of TechSoup. In her role, she works with communities around the world to describe the desired impact and to develop technology solutions that help them move towards that impact. Her work is influenced by human centered design principles, as well as methodologies from social work and international development, such as Participatory Action Research. She has been working with civil society, governments, academia, and corporations for more than 30 years to put together teams and solutions that can accomplish big goals, with and for communities. She’s passionate about protecting the rights of humans to live the lives they want to live, safely, freely, with love and in a spirit of abundance.

Justin Hilton

Founder & Board Member

Justin is a visionary writer and humanitarian, as well as a dynamic workshop and course leader and speaker, renowned for his commitment to fostering empathy, trauma healing, and global activism. Dedicated to uplifting marginalized voices, Justin has spearheaded transformative initiatives that empower leadership in underserved communities, advance social justice, and build resilient, connected communities. He is a recognized thought leader in global equity and social/emotional healing.

Justin’s work is a testament to the power of compassion in action. As the founder of SafePlace International, he has created a sanctuary of hope and support for vulnerable refugee populations, especially LGBTQ+ refugees and single mothers, offering them not just aid but dignity and empowerment.

In recent years, Justin has focused on training leaders, primarily throughout Africa, to harness their inner strength and self-awareness, equipping them to navigate the most challenging circumstances with grace and resilience. His message is clear: through understanding and compassion, we can drive profound and lasting positive change in the world.

Owen Harris

Honorary Board Member

Owen Harris is one of the co-founders of SafePlace International and served as its first Director of Operations, working in Turkey, Greece, Lebanon, Bangladesh and Mexico. Owen currently serves as a U.S. Foreign Service Officer and honorary board member at SafePlace International.

Tristan Pineiro

Board Member

Originally from the sleepy island of Menorca, Spain, Tristan Pineiro has built a career at the intersection of marketing, communications, and culture. Fluent in Spanish, English, and French, Tristan’s ability to connect across languages and cultures has been a cornerstone of his professional journey.

From heady beginnings working in revolutionary queer nightclubs in the north of England in the early 90s, while studying at Manchester University, Tristan’s first significant role in marcomms was as Head of Communications at Age Concern UK, Europe’s largest charity campaigning on age related issues. Tristan’s career has spanned leadership roles at global communications agencies like Grayling and Zeno, where he delivered award-winning integrated narrative led campaigns for the likes of British Airways, Microsoft, Diageo, Hilton Hotels and more. His expertise then took him from London to Netflix in the US, where he led global brand content and PR initiatives, followed by Bumble, where he helmed global brand marketing for Badoo, one of the world’s largest dating apps. A brief yet impactful stint at King saw him reignite cultural love for Candy Crush, ensuring the iconic game remained a staple in conversations around entertainment.

Currently serving as the Head of Marketing and Communications at Grindr, Tristan blends his passion for storytelling with a sharp strategic mindset, driving initiatives that put culture and community at the heart of the brand.

Beyond his professional accolades, Tristan has been deeply involved in community-focused projects, such as serving on the organizing committee for London’s iconic Wig Party at Café de Paris, which raised significant funds for HIV charities. A self-described pop culture enthusiast, he is also a published expert on Barbie dolls, a passion that has seen him quoted in various media. Tristan’s industry expertise has been recognized through numerous awards, both as a winner and as a judge at prestigious PR and marketing industry competitions.

Tristan now calls Los Angeles home, where he lives with his husband Cayden. Whether it’s professionally or for pure enjoyment, Tristan devours popular culture, turning it into meaningful, impactful narratives that resonate globally.

Rachael LeClear

Executive Director

Pronouns: She/Her

Rachael LeClear is a nonprofit leader, higher education professional, and passionate humanitarian who has served as SafePlace’s Executive Director since 2022. Rachael began her support of the forcibly displaced community in 2016 in Greece, with projects focusing on emergency response, environmental relief, ecotherapy, permaculture education, livelihood training, and community building.

As a passionate defender of the planet and all who call it home, she is deeply committed to increasing equity, facilitating social change, and supporting viable, community-led alternatives to traditional, often exploitative models of humanitarian aid. In her current role, she loves expanding the SafePlace family–all those who are connected by the impact this work has had on them individually and on communities all around the world. Outside of SafePlace, Rachael serves on the board of Lighthouse Relief, is an aspiring voiceover artist, and loves to hit the trail with her four-legged friends.

Sam Porteus

Head of Operations and Administration

Pronouns: He/They

Sam has spent the last decade working in the nonprofit sector with a wide range of grassroots and international organizations. He brings a unique combination of professional, educational, and lived experience to his work at SafePlace. Sam first joined the SafePlace family in 2020 by supporting operations with our team in Greece and has returned to lead the operations and administration of the organization. His passion for the mission of SafePlace is deeply rooted in a mindset of advocacy, social change, and altruism.

His diverse background has led to the cultivation of his skills as an effective leader and collaborative team member. Sam has also transformed his own life circumstances into a hard-wired ability to overcome adversity, cultivate resilience, and empower others. In May of 2024, Sam graduated with a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership with a focus on NGO management and transformational leadership, which further ignited his passion for the work of SafePlace. When not at work, Sam loves to travel and immerse himself in new cultures and communities. Sam also has a passion for the healing power of horses and spends much of his free time riding and training horses.

Masi Zhakata

Global Director, The Dream Academy / Leader of Socio-Emotional Class

Pronouns: They/Them

I’ve turned my trauma into power, embraced my true authentic self, and now stand as not only a safe space but also an advocate for policies that make life easier for all LGBTQI+ refugees and siblings worldwide

“Nyasha “Masi” Zhakata is a fierce advocate for LGBTQI+ rights, a compassionate leader, and a resilient voice for those who are doubly marginalized, such as refugees and asylum seekers. Born in Zimbabwe and now seeking asylum in Cape Town, South Africa, Masi has transformed their personal experiences into a powerful platform for advocacy, bringing global attention to the struggles of LGBTQI+ individuals, particularly within the refugee and migrant communities. As the Global Director of The Dream Academy, Masi oversees all programming, operations, and staff, ensuring that the organization remains a beacon of hope and empowerment for LGBTQI+ individuals. They lead the Socio-Emotional Class, providing a safe and supportive environment for those navigating the complexities of sexual and gender identity, migration, and refugee status.

Masi is also the founder of Pachedu, a grassroots collective that brings together LGBTQI+ refugees and asylum seekers residing in South Africa. Through Pachedu, they collaborate with local LGBTIQ organizations to create safe spaces and provide essential support for those who often face exclusion and violence. Their documentary “Tribe”has garnered international recognition, being nominated in various countries around the world. This work further amplifies the voices of marginalized communities and highlights the ongoing struggles for acceptance and human rights.

Masi’s activism is marked by their involvement in significant protest movements. They were one of the organizers of the march to the South African Parliament against the Ugandan government’s bill criminalizing LGBTIQ community members, which proposed harsh and brutal penalties. They also played a key role in the protest against the invitation of Professor Lumumba of Kenya by the EFF at the University of Cape Town, condemning his incitement of violence against queer siblings in Kenya. In addition to their activism, Masi has pursued academic excellence, completing an advanced sexual minorities course with the Law Faculty of Pretoria University. This education equips them with the legal expertise needed to advocate for policy changes that benefit sexual minorities, particularly within the refugee and asylum-seeking communities. Masi’s resilience and unwavering dedication to the protection and access to health, education, and basic human rights for all LGBTQI+ refugees and migrants, especially in South Africa, have made them a formidable force in the global fight for justice and equality. Their work continues to inspire and empower countless others to stand up for their rights and embrace their true selves.

Moran Perez

European Partnership Director, SafePlace International / Caseworking Coordinator, SafePlace Greece

Pronouns: He/Him

We, as a society first, but also within the European Asylum Service, need to understand that people not only escape their country due to political or military reasons, but also because of their sexual orientation and/or gender identity.

Moran Perez is a Spanish graduate in International Relations. He completed his studies in France and Brazil, where he worked with vulnerable communities. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, he moved to Greece to work with various organizations while continuing his education. In Athens, he earned two Master’s degrees in Foreign Policy and Mediation and Conflict Resolution, and he is now in his second year of law school.

In the humanitarian sector, Moran has served as a caseworker for organizations supporting pregnant and GBV women, as well as SafePlace Greece (SPG) and SafePlace International (SPI), where he assists the Program Director, handles casework for LGBTQI+ members needing social assistance, and seeks collaborations with organizations in Greece and across Europe. Additionally, Moran works with Positive Voice as an STD tester, counselor, and coordinator for a housing program for the trans community and people living with HIV. He also coordinates the project RefCheckpoint, providing anonymous and free tests and hospital accompaniment in nine languages.

Ashley Avan Caeter

Assistant Director, The Dream Academy

Pronouns: She/They

I continue to use my life experience and my presence to create safe spaces for our queer refugee family around the world. Showing up as my most authentic self invites others to do so as well.

Ashley Avan Caeter is a Zimbabwean asylum seeker living in Cape Town, South Africa and supports the Global Director of The Dream Academy in coordinating and executing all aspects of the program. Ashley identifies as a queer transgender woman and is a strong advocate for trans rights, largely through her digital presence on social media platforms. It is her life’s mission to ensure that every place in the world represents inclusion and diversity.

Oche Mercy

Administrative Assistant

Pronouns: She/Her

Equality is not just about being the same; it’s about celebrating the unique colors of humanity’s spectrum with love as our common thread.

Mercy is a people-centric person with attention to detail, efficient time management, multitasking proficiency, and effective communication skills. She possesses a strong commitment to justice and human rights. Her firm belief in equality across gender, religion, ethnicity, and sexuality drives her passion.

Her professional journey began as an administrative assistant at Cedarcrest Hospitals. Her transition to SafePlace International was a natural choice, aligning with her vision of a world free from discrimination based on sexual orientation and race. At SafePlace, she leverages her expertise to conduct research, coordinate meetings, and establish collaborations with other organizations.

Her commitment to promoting equality remains resolute. She believes that people are the most important part of any endeavor, and as such, it is important to commit to ensuring fairness across the world.

Ethan Chigwada

Leader, Socio-Emotional Courses / Trainer, The Dream Academy

Pronouns: They/Them/She/Her/He/Him

Helping others motivates me because it leads to real and lasting change.

Ethan Chigwada, a Zimbabwean asylum seeker living in South Africa, is the Leader for Socio-Emotional classes for The Dream Academy, which includes topics such as trauma healing, anger management, PTSD management, healthy coping mechanisms, social reintegration, and acts of kindness, among others. 

As a Trainer, Ethan helps create effective training materials and programs tailored to the needs of the trainees, conducting training sessions in a clear, engaging, and informative manner. Last but not least he also helps monitor and evaluate trainees’ progress through assessments, feedback, and performance reviews. Ethan identifies as gay and is a passionate advocate for sexual and gender diversity in politics and civil society. Ethan also works with an established queer organization in South Africa, PASSOP, as a Community Mobilization Officer and leads all of their major LGBTIQ initiatives. He dreams that the LGBTQIA+ community lives in a peaceful world where they will not be judged based on their sexuality.

Beverly Dhliwayo

Leader, Parenting Class

Pronouns: She/Her

I am a voice for parents and single moms and extend my love and support to marginalized refugees in South Africa and beyond. Lets connect!

Beverly Dhliwayo is a lesbian mom and Zimbabwean asylum seeker living in South Africa and leads The Dream Academy’s Parenting class. It truly takes a village to raise a child, and in a world where face-to-face interaction is a challenge, Bev helps to expand that village to the virtual realm, where parents discuss the challenges they face and make it known that we are truly in this together!

Bev is passionate about queer rights and never misses an opportunity to reach out and extend her support and care to marginalized LGBTQIA+ asylum seekers in South Africa and beyond.

Nokuthula Gumede

Community Engagement Manager, Parenting​

Pronoun: She/Her

Success is not just about making the right moves, but also about making every move count.

Nokuthula Gumede is a caregiver, leader and counselor. She is a community server and mental health professional with years of experience. Her journey includes being a Rainbow Parent in the LGBTIQ community and offering love, care, and support through working and partnering with other organizations.

She possesses great communication skills, holding diverse dialogues and facilitating collaborations. She is dedicated to shaping and changing people’s lives by teaching them sufficient skills like cooking and baking so they can sustain themselves. She strongly believes that good is not good enough when better is expected. 

Grey*

Community Engagement Manager, Uganda

Pronouns: He/Him

I strive to empower marginalized communities in Uganda through fostering inclusivity and advocating for equal opportunities for all.

As Community Engagement Manager for Uganda, Grey*, a Ugandan national, is responsible for in-country operations including recruiting, interviewing, selecting, and supporting participants of TDA all the way through post-program engagement, as well as coordinating with local partner organizations and identifying resources that may be useful for community members. Grey identifies as gay and has a strong desire to serve others in his community. He graduated with a Bachelor’s of Business Administration and Management in 2017 from Kyambogo University. 

*Due to Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act, Grey’s name and photo have been altered to protect his identity.

Sulah Mawejje

Community Engagement Manager, Kenya

Pronoun: He/They

Put marginalized people at the center. It’s the only way to restore dignity and support them better.

Sulah Mawejje is a Ugandan asylum seeker living in Kenya. Sulah identifies as gay and is a passionate health champion and queer rights advocate deeply engaged in raising awareness about HIV/AIDS. He is a member of The Nature Network, an LGBTQI+ refugee-led community-based organization in Nairobi, Kenya. He is also a talented photographer and videographer and also works as an interpreter for the United Nations High Commission For Refugees (UNHCR).

Uchenna Precious Aniegbuna

Community Engagement Manager, Nigeria

Pronouns: He/Him

If you can’t get a chair at the table, create yours.

Uchenna Precious Aniegbuna is a dedicated development officer with a passion for making a positive impact. His commitment to community projects and his warm, engaging nature make him a valuable asset in the humanitarian field.

Precious excels at fostering social inclusion, promoting diversity, and creating environments where marginalized voices are heard and valued. His adeptness in project management ensures the efficient execution of programs, resulting in significant and sustainable impact. Advocating for justice and equity, Precious is a powerful voice for those who need support and amplifies their stories to drive positive change.

Francis Amani Mushambi

Co-Leader, Employability Skills / Tech Director

Pronoun: He/Him

Together, let’s strive for a more inclusive and equitable world.

Francis Amani Mushambi is a transgender man from Zimbabwe currently seeking asylum in South Africa. He is passionate about advocating for the rights of the LGBTQI+ community, marginalized communities, and individuals in harm’s way. With a certificate in feminism and social justice, Francis has actively participated in public and social action for human rights and engaged in panel discussions and dialogues, speaking his lived reality with truth and humanity. In his roles at SafePlace, he works towards creating safe spaces and empowering individuals through sharing, training and support. He has also attended conferences focused on LGBTQI+ issues and has volunteered extensively to build his ability to engage with issues in aid of expanding the individual and collective freedom of communities at risk.

Juanjo Ladines Moya

Bookkeeper

Pronouns: He/Him

Explore your dreams, free your world.

Juanjo is a level 32 human born, raised and currently based in Lima, Perú. Over the past 7 years he has immersed himself in the impact and humanitarian sectors and has used his talent in human-centered design, interpersonal relationship development and business administration to promote the development and expansion of projects dealing with topics such as sustainable income generation, nature conservation, forced migration, humanitarian education and community development, amongst others. 

As a fierce believer in the power and impact of communal efforts, he enjoys meeting new people, learning about what they’re passionate about and connecting them with like-hearted individuals to increase the chances of sparking more positive impact in the world. He is always happy to lend a hand to other humans working on meaningful causes, explore new musical recommendations and have fun conversations about music, cats and ducks.

Blessed Nhodza

GFI Community Engagement Manager, Zimbabwe

Pronouns: He/Him

The fight for equality is not a sprint, but a relay. We pass the baton of courage, and together, we outrun injustice.

Blessed Nhodza is an accomplished development specialist and award-winning human rights advocate focused on creating inclusive systems for marginalized communities. As SafePlace International’s Zimbabwe Community Engagement Manager, he builds ecosystems of safety and leadership development for forcibly displaced LGBTQI+ persons and single mothers. With 5+ years’ experience managing programs supported by PEPFAR, UNAIDS, and Gates Foundation, Blessed integrates expertise in SRHR, HIV response, and Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) to develop intersectional solutions. His award-winning advocacy has advanced health equity and protection for key populations through both community interventions and national policy reform. Blessed combines grassroots engagement with strategic vision to create sustainable change aligned with SPI’s mission of collective healing and growth and brings particular expertise in SRHR and HIV programming for key populations, community-led disaster risk reduction strategies, grassroots policy advocacy and intersectional approaches to protection and empowerment