Meet the Team
A team committed to values and social transformation through mutual support.
Magalys Noguera
Tatiana Duarte
Susana Escobar
Lukasz Charczenko
Founder: I arrived in the United Kingdom from Nicaragua in January 2020. I am a chemist, writer, and I love cooking. I am currently developing an organic skincare project. As a female empowerment coach, I believe that everyone deserves equal opportunities to grow. I decided to found Roots for Change UK to bring hope and purpose to people who think everything is lost and that no one can help them, but we are here for them, we are a family, and everyone is important.
Tatiana Duarte, originally from Honduras and now living in the United Kingdom for the past five years, has a background in marketing as well as training in accounting and business. Her experience, together with her genuine passion for supporting others, has led her to volunteer with several organisations — something she values deeply as a way of giving back to the country that has supported her family. As a mother of two boys, she cares about creating positive and welcoming spaces where families can connect and thrive. Tatiana is delighted to be part of Roots for Change UK and looks forward to contributing to meaningful experiences and lasting impact within the community.
Susana Escobar serves as a Trustee at Roots for Change UK, bringing empathy, compassion, and a strong commitment to supporting people and communities. Originally from El Salvador and now living in the United Kingdom, she understands first-hand what it means to rebuild a life and navigate change — experiences that have shaped her belief in kindness, dignity, and creating safe, welcoming spaces. In her role, she contributes to initiatives that offer practical support such as food, clothing, and education, as well as workshops, wellbeing activities, and opportunities for community connection, particularly for migrants and refugees.
Lucasz Charczenko is a dedicated and compassionate trustee who deeply believes in community, kindness, and mutual support. Originally from Poland and now part of the UK community, he brings empathy, responsibility, and a genuine desire to help others. His experience supporting people from diverse backgrounds has strengthened his commitment to creating positive social impact. Through Roots for Change UK, Lucasz contributes to projects that promote inclusion, wellbeing, and a sense of belonging for all.
Jessica Calderon Ramos
Joel Odiya
I am Jessica Calderón, a trustee at Roots for Change, an organisation that embodies my values of love, connection, and service to others. As a dance teacher and practitioner of holistic therapies —including breathwork, ice baths, and yoga— I am passionate about supporting people on their journey towards wellbeing and transformation. After nine years living in Newcastle, I have found in this community a place where I can share my energy, spirituality, and deep belief in the light within every human being. Helping others is not simply something I do; it is a way of life.
Joel Odiya is a dedicated community leader based in Eastern Uganda with a strong passion for supporting vulnerable children, families, and individuals facing hardship. Through years of grassroots community work, he has helped provide support, care, and opportunities to orphaned children, vulnerable households, widows, and elderly people.
As Uganda Project Coordinator for Roots for Change UK Uganda, Joel works closely with local communities to identify needs, coordinate humanitarian initiatives, and ensure support reaches those who need it most. His commitment to compassion, integrity, and community development plays a key role in advancing the organisation’s mission across Uganda.
Joel believes that every child deserves access to education, safety, dignity, and the opportunity to build a brighter future.