About Us
Our story is one of hope
We are an organization defined by our roots that reflect the principles of dedication, hard work, and commitment to education.
The Dream Instilled in Me
My father instilled in me the importance of education at an early age. He dedicated his life to the pursuit of knowledge and made personal sacrifices so that I could aim higher. His example of commitment serves as a constant reminder for me to never give up and to always give back. From my father’s passion for education, Newwave Foundation was born. He would be proud to know that, along my own journey to inspire others to strive for more, I’ve learned an important lesson:
“Achieving is not solely for the achiever, it is so someone else can do it, too… after you.”
We are here to inspire
the next generation of dreamers to rise to their highest potential.
We believe that the only way to go is UP.
Our Mission
is to make the dream a reality
The Newwave Foundation (NWF) is a nonprofit organization of passionate dreamers and achievers on a mission to equalize the educational playing field for diverse learners who deserve a shot at their own success.
Our Vision
is to instill the dream
We prepare deserving students for what is ahead through scholarships, educational programs, and partnerships with like-minded organizations that want to join us in making a difference.
Money Talk$
Pitch Perfect
Mind Matters
Scholarships
Our team
Nurturing dreams, empowering generations – our team's enduring commitment.
Our Board
Sherifah Munis
Founder
Sherifah Munis
Sherifah Munis is the Founder and Executive Director of the NewWave Foundation, a 501©3 organization working to provide global access to healthcare and education by collaborating with like-minded partners who share her vision of a decent quality of life for all. Stemming from her passion for service and desire to make an impact, she takes great pride in leading the Foundation’s innovative social endeavors. Mrs. Munis holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master’s of Art in Economics from Morgan State University. She also holds a Global Executive MBA from Georgetown University and the ESADE Business School.
Patrick Munis
Board Member
Patrick Munis
Somachi Kachikwu
Board Member
Somachi Kachikwu
Somachi Kachikwu is a seasoned educator and expert in designing and implementing innovative strategies within the Private and Public sectors and through Private-Public Partnerships. With a strong background in the education space, she has made significant contributions to the international education sector by establishing synergies and leveraging her knowledge of international educational best practices, policies, and reforms.
As a board member, Somachi Kachikwu brings extensive experience in education, strategic planning, and partnership development. Her deep understanding of international educational practices and commitment to improving access to education make her a valuable asset to any organization or institution.
Darrel Frater
Board Member
Darrel Frater
Darrel is an Investor at Visible Hands where he assists the team in investing in early stage companies led by underrepresented founders. Additionally he serves as a mentor in several accelerator programs such as Techstars, ACT House, and Ideas42 Ventures.
Darrel previously served as an Investment Analyst at Comcast where he led research and sourcing for diversity investing in minority led startups and funds. Darrel is a 3-time founder with his latest company being a live streaming platform for entrepreneurs called TheClub. He is an MBA graduate from The College of New Jersey where he studied strategy, innovation, and leadership.
Stephanie Lott
Board Member
Stephanie Lott
Stephanie Lott is an educator, writer, and researcher with a passion for advancing educational equity. After receiving a Master of Arts in anthropology, she worked in research at University of Minnesota Extension and Arizona State University on projects including a community development initiative, a behavioral health project, and an evaluation of leadership development programs. Stephanie then pivoted to the field of education and taught in U.S. public schools as well as abroad at the American International School In Cyprus. During this time, she completed a second Master of Arts in literacy education and is continuing to use her skills as a teacher by volunteering to support adult English learners.As a board member, she brings her eye for detail and her technical grant writing skills to support NWF’s fundraising initiatives.