The History of Brave Heart Foundation
Brave Heart Foundation is an organization that works to provide hope, dignity, and support to refugees and people in vulnerable life situations. The work is based on a value foundation characterized by compassion, responsibility, and the belief that lasting change is created through long-term, relationship-based efforts.
2011
The organization was founded on June 20, 2011, on World Refugee Day, under the name Refugee Alliance, by Pastor Stephen Kaumba and Sina Saltbones. The initiative grew out of Stephen’s commitment to children and youth in Meheba Refugee Settlement in Zambia, where he himself had a background as a refugee, and Sina’s desire to support and further develop this work.
What began as private support for children’s education in Meheba gradually developed into a comprehensive effort aimed at refugees and local communities. Over time, the work has included education, peacebuilding, trauma care, healthcare services, and the empowerment of women.
An important breakthrough came when the organization was given responsibility for a previously abandoned clinic in one of the most marginalized areas of Meheba. Through local collaboration and gradual development, Hope Clinic was established and is today a key healthcare facility for the population in the area.
Brave Heart has also been engaged in Uganda and Iraq, with a focus on trauma care, capacity building, and support for people affected by conflict and displacement.
2017
In 2017, the organization changed its name to Brave Heart. The name reflects the organization’s goal of empowering people to regain courage, dignity, and the ability to take action after severe hardships. The core message has always been that no one should stand alone or be forgotten.
2026
Today, Brave Heart has a strong local presence in Meheba, with dedicated staff and volunteers, and continues its work with the goal of sustainable solutions and long-term community impact.
