Our Story

Our Story

Ever since childhood, I’ve lived by three simple principles: Learn, Earn, Return. I’ve been fortunate to earn more than I needed, and with that came a responsibility to give back.

In 2010, I set out to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro and wanted to use the opportunity to fundraise for a charity. But when I approached several organisations, I was told I needed to raise £3,000 in donations and pay £3,000 for the climb. To my surprise, I learned that between 13% and 26% of donations would go toward “administration and operating costs.” For large charities, this adds up to a significant amount—money that could be making a difference for those in need.

That’s when I decided to create a charity where 100% of donations go directly to projects—to the people and communities that need it most. I committed to covering all administrative costs myself, ensuring every pound raised makes a real impact.

Now, 14 years later, with the support of my wonderful wife, Tatiana, and a team of dedicated volunteers, the Mehiel Foundation continues to grow. Though we remain a small charity, our mission is bold: to address the root causes of poverty and social injustice, and to create lasting change in the lives of underprivileged and vulnerable communities.

Our work is centred on four core areas:

Poverty Relief | Sports | Clean Water | Education 

Year after year, we empower grassroots communities in some of the world’s most disadvantaged regions. I invite you to join us on this journey whether as a sponsor, donor, or volunteer. Together, we can make a real difference and help create a better world.

And if you’re curious, I did reach the summit of Kilimanjaro, where I proposed to my wife; every penny raised went directly to an orphanage in Moshi, Tanzania, which I personally delivered.

Our History

Our Journey of Impact

2010

Mehiel Foundation is Born

Mehiel Foundation was founded out of a deep desire to give back. With a commitment to tackling poverty and injustice, we set out on a mission to make a lasting difference in the lives of vulnerable communities around the world.

2012

First Projects in Tanzania and Beyond

Our journey began in Tanzania, where we launched our first project. Over the next few years, we expanded our efforts to Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Kosovo, and Romania, bringing hope and resources to those in need.

2017

Established Our International Base in Uganda

To further our impact, we established our international base in Uganda. From here, we’ve coordinated vital programs in Ghana, Togo, Malawi, Zambia, Sierra Leone and Madagascar, deepening our work and connections in local African communities.

2020

Recognised by HMRC as a Charitable Organisation

In 2020, our work was officially recognised by HMRC, marking a significant milestone that reinforced our commitment to transparency and accountability as a charitable organisation.

2021

First External Donation

A pivotal moment came in 2021 when we received our first donation outside of the founder’s contributions. This support from others affirmed our mission and allowed us to scale our efforts further.

2022

Registered with the UK Charities Commission

In 2022, we proudly registered with the UK Charities Commission, further strengthening our foundation and solidifying our status as a trusted nonprofit dedicated to long-term, impactful work.

Who We Are

Our Board of Trustees

Lawrence Patrick

Founder & CEO

Tatiana Patrick

Trustee

Haroon Humzah

Trustee

Damian Hannon

Trustee

Ceri-Jane Hackling

Trustee

What We Do

Empowering communities for lasting impact.

Sacks of Hope

Fight food insecurity by providing sustainable solutions to hunger, ensuring families have access to nutritious meals, and supporting agricultural initiatives that strengthen local food systems.

Streams of Hope

Access to clean water is a basic human right. We bring safe, reliable drinking water and sanitation to communities in need, improving health, hygiene, and quality of life.

EmpowerED Hope

Education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty. We provide access to quality learning opportunities, empowering children and adults alike with knowledge and skills.

Sporting Hope

We believe in the power of sports to build confidence, teamwork, and leadership in young people, fostering a sense of community and belonging while promoting physical and mental well-being.

Years of Experience

Countries Reached

Projects Funded