Who We Are
WSFI is led by a small, dedicated team of individuals who believe that every person — regardless of where they were born or what they have endured — deserves a chance at a life worth living. We bring that conviction to everything we do.
Leadership
WSFI is led by founders and volunteers who share an unrivaled passion and dedication for people all over the world. We are in the process of finalizing additional board members from a list of business and civic leaders who share our values and our long-term vision.
Our committed staff and generous volunteers make it all possible.
Our Team
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Rugie Cato
Founder & President
Rugie co-founded WSFI with a deep personal commitment to the communities most affected by war and disease. Her leadership brings both lived experience and tireless advocacy to the organization's mission of relief and restoration.
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Steve Baumann
Founder & CEO / CTO
Steve co-founded WSFI and leads the organization's strategic direction, operations, and technology infrastructure. With a background spanning business, technology, and nonprofit leadership, he brings a systems-level perspective to complex humanitarian challenges.
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Abdul Kargbo
Chairman
Abdul serves as Chairman of WSFI, providing governance leadership and strategic counsel. His deep roots in West Africa and his commitment to community-centered development shape the organization's approach to sustainable impact.
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Megan Gonzales
Treasurer
Megan manages WSFI's financial operations and stewardship, ensuring that resources are allocated responsibly and that donors can trust their contributions are making a real difference. Her rigor and transparency are foundational to the organization's credibility.
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Tris L. Rieland, M.S., M.D.
Vice President, U.S.A.
Dr. Rieland leads WSFI's U.S. operations and medical program development. With advanced degrees in both medicine and science, he brings critical clinical expertise to the organization's health-focused initiatives and helps guide WSFI's medical partnerships.
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Abimbola Williams
Vice President, Africa
Abimbola leads WSFI's on-the-ground programs across Africa, building the local relationships and logistical infrastructure needed to deliver effective relief. Her knowledge of the region and its communities is essential to WSFI's work.
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Tina Rieland
Director of Relations
Tina leads WSFI's community relations, donor engagement, and outreach efforts. She is the connective tissue between the people WSFI serves, the volunteers who give their time, and the supporters whose generosity makes the mission possible.