Born and raised in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, Nicola was educated in the UK and now lives with her husband and two children in Minneapolis.

Nicola's mother, Jil Stanley has lived and has been active in Tanzanian philanthropy for over 40 years. The Stanley family has a long history in Tanzania. Nicola's father was also born in Dar Es Salaam.

While growing up in Tanzania, Nicola took an early interest in the country, its people and its challenges. She is passionate about plants, animals, the environment and helping others. Nicola collaborates with her mother in Dar Es Salaam who maintains a close working relationship with our partner in Tanzania, Mary Nottman of Friends of Tanzania. As such, Lift Kids' is well represented by a closed knit team of experienced social developers. Nicola plays a key role for Lift Kids overseeing our projects and maintaining daily communication with all partners. Nicole's understanding of Tanzania and her deeply-rooted commitment are indispensable to Lift Kids' success in empowering children of all ages and raising communities from the cycle of poverty.