Our People
GLO’s motto is to ‘identify, equip and empower the best local leaders of passion, integrity, gifting and vision for the transformation of Burundi, bottom-up and top-down.’ Our staff, trustees and supporters are joined together in this vision, working as one team for this goal.
Simon Guillebaud
Founder and International Director
Simon had a very clear call to Burundi in 1999, when it was regarded as the most dangerous country on earth. He set up GLO with the vision to transform Burundi and beyond through holistic mission, working with gifted local leaders of integrity.
Simon is a gifted communicator. As a speaker, he loves to encourage and challenge ‘the troops’ in churches and conference events. He is the author of several books including the bestselling devotional ‘Choose Life‘. Simon posts regular blog articles and has recently launched an upbeat and uplifting podcast ‘Inspired… with Simon Guillebaud’, introducing the listener to a stunning variety of people from all walks of life.
Simon and his wife Lizzie have both been awarded an MBE for their services to Burundi.
Jean Bosco Mutebutsi
Executive Consultant, Burundi
Jean Bosco, runs the day-to-day work of GLO on the ground in Burundi. As a child, he miraculously survived a tragic attack during the genocide of the 1990’s which left him orphaned.
Having come to faith in his teens, Bosco developed his early ministry with Burundi Youth for Christ, eventually leaving to pioneer his own organisation, Igniting Communities for Jesus, which has had a profound impact as they work alongside some of the poorest people in Burundi through holistic community transformation.
He is wise, compassionate and servant-hearted, and we are excited to see the impact of his leadership.
Burundi Team
Eloge Nisubire
Administrative and Financial Consultant
Eloge is responsible for the day-to-day running of the GLO office in Bujumbura and he assists Bosco, our Executive Consultant. Eloge administers the partner auditing and accountability process to ensure the highest standards and financial integrity.
My passion for mission is fueled by the atmosphere of devotion and fellowship among my colleagues. GLO is more than a team, it is, above all, a family.
Raissa Kanziza
Communications Consultant
Travelling throughout Burundi, Raissa is responsible for gathering news and stories from our GLO partners. She recounts their work by posting articles, videos and photos, many of which are available on this website and our social media channels.
Telling people's stories, touching peoples hearts and building authentic connections are some of the best work experiences one can find at GLO.
Graciella Ntahiraja
Relationships Consultant
Graciella maintains logistics and supports Eloge in local partner administration. She also works with Raissa, and acts as our wonderful guide for any visitors to Burundi.
Working for GLO has opened my eyes to see my country with different lenses. I have enjoyed seeing our partners, transforming lives within Burundi and beyond. I also love how GLO feels like a family that genuinely cares for each other.
Onesphore Manirakiza
Outgoing National Director
The pioneering founder of several organisations and initiatives, Onesphore is our preceding Burundian national director, who remains a part of GLO in an advisory role whilst he heads up the organisation he founded, Antioch Foundation. Read his story here.
UK & US Team
Paul Tilbury
Operations Manager
Paul is responsible for planning and overseeing our digital communications, IT systems, finance and HR operations.
Working for GLO is such a joy! I've witnessed the integrity and dedication of our partners in Burundi and how they give their all to see lives transformed. Their passion is an inspiration to me.
Lena Israel
Administrator (Office & Donations)
Lena is our Administrator with responsibility for donation processing, database management and supporting our International Director and Operations Manager.
I feel fulfilled working for GLO because I know its mission is authentic and brings a tangible transformation to people's lives.
Adam Thomas Steer
Communications Manager
Adam looks after our digital content at GLO, from keeping the website up-to-date, sending out our (e)mailings, producing Simon’s podcasts and videos and managing our media.
Working for GLO is exciting because of the passion at every level of the organisation to make a profound difference in the lives of others.
Len Esterhuizen
Finance Officer
Len keeps a close watch over our charity finances – keeping the books balanced, making sure all payments to our partners reach their destination, payroll, and engaging with the audit process.
As someone who was born in Africa I have deep roots in the continent and enjoy a special connection to the people of Africa and their culture and community. Working for GLO is therefore part of who I am. I am especially blessed to witness and see the impact of Christian faith in action in Burundi.
Wendy Clow
Partnerships Administrator
Wendy is our primary contact with existing and new supporters, connecting you with all that’s happening in Burundi and keeping you informed of the impact of your support.
I feel so privileged to be working for GLO. There is nothing better than seeing lives totally transformed by the love of God, and being able to connect with and learn from so many inspiring people.
John Storey
Finance Manager
John oversees the GLO finances & reporting and compliance in these areas.
GLO brings HOPE through the love of Jesus in so many desperate situations.Working with a team dedicated to such a goal is both inspiring and rewarding.
Lacey Faieta
US Partnerships Coordinator
Lacey is passionate about connecting people with Burundi as she maintains and develops relationships with partners and supporters in the US.
Partnering with this amazing organization and the beautiful Burundian people has shown me the power of knowledge, the insanity of obedience, and generosity in the face of starvation resulting in great advances for the Kingdom of God!
Len Esterhuizen
Financial Controller
Len keeps a close watch over our charity finances – keeping the books balanced, making sure all payments to our partners reach their destination, payroll, and engaging with the audit process.
As someone who was born in Africa I have deep roots in the continent and enjoy a special connection to the people of Africa and their culture and community. Working for GLO is therefore part of who I am. I am especially blessed to witness and see the impact of Christian faith in action in Burundi.
UK Board
Paul Smith
Chair of the UK Board
I have been travelling to Burundi since 2008 and each time come away inspired by the work being done by our partners there. It is a privilege to be a part of their transformation of their own country, but it also transforms us along the way.
Gavin Howard
Trustee
I love GLO because of the way it makes sure that resources from overseas are used strategically across Burundi, in partnership with capable ministry leaders.
Charlotte Hutchinson
Trustee
I love being a trustee because I love our GLO partners. Their courage and determination in incredibly challenging circumstances never ceases to inspire me.
Steve White
Trustee
GLO is ‘serving’ very needy people with a team pulled together from all walks of professional life for a real world purpose. GLO demonstrates that ‘serving’ is a two-way street – it would be arrogant for us to think that we are serving the needy, when we are also ‘needy’ and are greatly blessed in doing this.
Justin Hill
Trustee
My connection with GLO & Burundi has given me a sense of perspective that I could never have dreamed of.
Luke Johnson
Trustee
I'm delighted to serve as a trustee for GLO as it makes a massive impact in Burundi.
Sue Wilmot
Trustee
I love GLO because of the huge impact it has, despite limited resources, and the dedication of all involved in its ministry. It’s a privilege to be part of it.
US Board
Dave Soutter
Chair of the US Board
It is inspiring to come alongside our partners in Burundi as they serve with integrity, and with a long view of raising a new generation of leaders.
Brian Kleager
Trustee
Since 2011, I have travelled to Burundi about twice a year and have had the privilege of serving alongside different Burundian ministries. It is amazing to see the work of GLO leadership and its ministries in sharing the love of Christ. I am excited to be a part of God’s work in and through GLO!
Olivia McGraw
Trustee
I’m honored to serve on the GLO board and share in the victories and challenges of our brothers and sisters in Burundi. They’re the real heroes… we just get to champion and encourage their beautiful work.
Dan McNeill
Trustee
GLO has been such a blessing to me over the several years I have been involved with them in Burundi. A God-anointed, Spirit-filled ministry spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ to the people in Burundi. Dedicated and committed to their mission with integrity and the love of Jesus. I am thrilled to be a part of this ministry.
Bob Lawrence
Trustee
Burundi captured a piece of my heart upon first visiting in 2008 to experience the work and ministries of the GLO partners. Their passion to be the heart of God within the heart of Africa…and beyond…and to make Christ Jesus known, is easy to get behind and support. Blessed to share in this ministry that continues to make difference.
Duncan Sprague
Trustee
Since my first visit to Burundi in 2011, I’ve been hooked! I’m committed to sharing not only the gospel of Jesus in Burundi, but my very life with these beloved friends. I'm more than a fan of GLO. These are friends and family with whom a relational revolution of faith, hope, and love is spreading across Burundi and beyond. What a privilege!
Mark Bateman
Trustee
My first trip to Burundi in 2011 we stayed at Kings Conference Center. Meeting with the GLO staff and seeing what amazing Kingdom work they are doing made me want to know more. After several more trips and meeting Simon, I continue to see God using this ministry in a powerful way and I feel privileged to serve as part of the GLO family.
Doug Hinson
Trustee
Since becoming part of GLO I have watched Christ-centered people doing amazing things which have transformed Burundi in ways that could only be accomplished through the Spirit. I have been blessed in so many ways by my brothers in Burundi and the GLO team for which I am deeply grateful.
Lacey Faieta
Trustee
Partnering with this amazing organization and the beautiful Burundian people has shown me the power of knowledge, the insanity of obedience, and generosity in the face of starvation resulting in great advances for the Kingdom of God!