Meet the founder
A Passion for Change, A Mission for Impact
Mrs. Maguette Diop – Founder and President of Africa First Charity
Africa First Charity Foundation, based in London, is led by a committed and inspiring Senegalese woman, Mrs. Maguette Diop, also known as Magui.
A visionary woman, devoted leader, and passionate advocate for humanitarian causes, Mrs. Maguette Diop embodies dynamic and impactful philanthropy. Originally from Senegal and currently residing in London, she established Africa First Charity with a clear mission: to provide tangible and sustainable support to African communities in need, by mobilizing resources and launching high-impact initiatives.
Under her leadership, the foundation has already organized donations of office materials and furniture, contributing to improved infrastructure and working conditions in several institutions. Through her unwavering commitment, Mrs. Diop works to enhance access to education, healthcare, and economic development through targeted, effective, and compassionate actions.
In addition to her humanitarian work, Mrs. Diop holds a qualification in Hospitality Management from Nelson College, London. She is also the director of Nice Fresh Cleaning LTD, a professional cleaning company—demonstrating her ability to combine entrepreneurial leadership with social commitment.
Her approach is defined by pragmatic leadership, transparent management, and a constant drive to build partnerships with individuals and organizations that share her values. Tireless and forward-thinking, she places human dignity and solidarity at the heart of her mission, firmly believing that every effort counts in building a better future.
With Africa First Charity, Mrs. Maguette Diop aspires to grow an organization of increasing impact, committed to sustainable, inclusive, and people-centered development for both present and future generations.
The Birth of Africa First Charity
Maggi’s passion for helping underserved communities led her to work alongside Spark of Hope, a charity founded by her brother, dedicated to uplifting disadvantaged schools in Senegal. It was during this time that she discovered Waste to Wonder, an organization committed to redistributing office furniture to schools and social enterprises in need.
Her first encounter with Waste to Wonder in 2018 was a turning point. Seeing the stark inequalities faced by children in her homeland, she realized that furniture—often discarded as waste in wealthier nations—could be a lifeline for schools struggling with inadequate resources. Inspired by this vision, Maggi founded Africa First Charity to extend the reach of such redistribution programs and tackle broader educational and social challenges in Africa.
The School-in-a-Box Initiative: Transforming Classrooms, One Container at a Time
One of Africa First Charity’s flagship programs is the School-in-a-Box initiative, a partnership with Waste to Wonder and Spark of Hope. This initiative provides desks, chairs, cabinets, and essential learning equipment to schools and training centers in Africa, ensuring that children receive quality education in a properly equipped environment.
In 2020 alone, Waste to Wonder donated 47 School-in-a-Box containers filled with essential furniture to schools worldwide. In 2023, Africa First Charity, in collaboration with Spark of Hope, aims to receive and distribute 30 of these containers to schools and community centers across Senegal, significantly improving learning conditions for thousands of students.
A Journey of Collaboration and Gratitude
The impact of Africa First Charity’s work continues to grow, thanks to dedicated partners, donors, and volunteerswho share Maggi’s vision. Vince Smith, Operations Director at Waste to Wonder, highlights the significance of Maggi’s efforts:
“It continues to be a pleasure to work with Maggi, Spark of Hope, and her new venture, Africa First. We’re excited about Maggi’s ambition and look forward to our continued collaboration in supporting these incredible initiatives.”
A Legacy of Empowerment and Hope
Through Africa First Charity, Maggi is not only providing tangible resources but also creating a lasting legacy of empowerment, education, and sustainability. Her story serves as an inspiration, proving that one person’s vision can spark change and improve countless lives.
Join Maguette Diop and Africa First Charity in their mission to create a better future for Africa.
Support Our Cause Today!
Donate – Help us deliver essential furniture and resources to African schools.
Partner With Us – Businesses can contribute to sustainability and social good.
Get Involved – Explore volunteer opportunities and be part of the change.
Together, we can make a difference—one school, one child, one community at a time.