After building a successful career as a freelance production manager in the Australian film industry, Vashti decided to move back to the UK to study Philosophy, and it was during her final year at University, that she founded Deki.

Inspired by a young Tibetan refugee and a small legacy left to her by her father for Vashti to “do something good” with.

Vashti has always held the core belief that everyone should have an opportunity to empower themselves, and is particularly passionate about empowering women to hold leadership roles within their communities and homes.

Vashti has been featured in The Observer, The Guardian, Daily Mail, Red Magazine, Grazia and Marie Claire. Vashti has won numerous high-profile awards such as; Bristol and Bath’s Businesswoman of the Year and IOD’s Third Sector Director of the Year; Vashti was also awarded an Honorary MBA from the University of West of England for her commitment to community and entrepreneurship.

With over 13 years of experience in inclusive microfinance and working with underpriveleged populations, Christian left his job at a microfinance bank in 2011 and used his savings to start IADES. He holds multiple qualifications in finance and accounting from the University in Lomé, Togo.

“For me it is clear that for vulnerable communitites to flourish, they need basic economic and social services such as access to healthcare, access to clean energy, clean water and education. We are pleased with the work being done with our sister partner Deki, which brings well-being and smiles to the rural communities

After working in a corporate environment for the last 20 years, Katy decided she needed to pursue a more fulfilling and meaningful role where she could directly impact people's lives.

All of her previous roles were in the financial industry. She is a qualified mortgage advisor and legal executive after completing both her Ilex and Cemap qualifications, all of which help her in her role at Deki.

Upon discovering Deki, Katy was immediately drawn to its values and vision. She firmly believes that empowering individuals with the necessary tools and opportunities can enable them to overcome extreme poverty and build resilience on their own terms.

Outside of her work at Deki, Katy's passion lies in yoga and the therapeutic benefits of breathwork. With 18 years of yoga practice under her belt, Katy also teaches yoga, leveraging the power of self-awareness to help others navigate challenging situations.

Maggy brings to the table over two decades of dedicated service in community development, both domestic and internationally.

With a passion for advocating for the empowerment of women and girls, her expertise seamlessly integrates with Deki’s core values.

Maggy's extensive portfolio includes the conception and management of various impactful social programmes spanning the realms of health, sport, and education working in the UK, the Middle East, Europe, and Southern Africa. Holding a Master's degree in International Development with distinction, Maggy is not only a seasoned facilitator and trainer but also deeply passionate about fostering positive change.

Beyond her professional pursuits, she channels her energy into sports and outdoor activities, serving as a swimming and netball coach and a certified lifeguard.