Our Vision

The vision of Roots & Wings Movement began after my first trip to Dakar City, Senegal in 2015. During that stay I visited several secondary schools and orphanages. Witnessing the lack of basic learning materials and outdated classrooms, I felt compelled to help. Upon my return to the U.S., I shared my experiences with two of my friends, Makisha Brock and Papa Drame. Myself along with Ms. Brock and Mr. Drame, made a visit to Dakar City in 2017 where we donated school supplies and clothing. Recognizing the need for sustainable support, in 2018 we agreed to start a charitable foundation, Roots & Wings Movement.  
—
Phil Charles

0.jpg

Meet Our Team

PHIL.png

Mr. Phil Charles is a native of Trinidad, West Indies and has lived in the United States for over forty years. He is a father of three and has five grandchildren. Mr. Charles has been employed with one of the largest energy company in the United States for over 15 years. He has used is experiences working with the public during his personal travel to over 40+ countries, many of which included undeveloped economies. Mr. Charles’ immersion with local citizens and cultures inspires him to to support these countries through his philanthropic work and serves as the primary for this nonprofit.

M.png

Ms. Makisha Brock is a Brooklyn native who has worked in the corporate sector for 20+ years in both Human Resources and Administration. She's passionate about building better communities and empowering young people.

PAPA.png

Mr. Papa Drame is from Senegal and he moved to the USA in 1999. Mr. Drame’s early life was shaped by the neighborhood of Derkle in Dakar City, Sengal where he recognized that education was a luxury. Schools were ill equipped and many families survived on less than $1 per day. Mr. Drame moved to the USA to pursue higher education and considers himself lucky to have received the necessary support to pursue his education. To provide the similar opportunity to as many kids possible, Papa decided to join Mr. Charles and Ms. Brock with their effort to provide educational opportunities to undeserved children in Senegal and developing countries.