Our Values —
At UMF, we are guided by a deep respect for human dignity, ethical responsibility, and community empowerment. We believe that access to clean water is a basic human right and that our work must reflect compassion, integrity, and sustainability. Inspired by the legacy of Ummukulthum Maiyaki, we serve with purpose, putting people before profit and focusing on long-term impact over short-term gain.
Our Approach —
We work hand-in-hand with rural communities to identify their most pressing water needs and co-create lasting solutions. Through a phased and participatory model, we engage local leaders, train community members, and partner with trusted contractors to implement sustainable water systems. Our approach is practical, inclusive, and built to ensure that every project is owned and maintained by the people it serves.
I founded the Ummukulthum Foundation in memory of my beloved older sister, whose compassion and strength continue to inspire everything I do. UMF is not just a project — it’s a deeply personal mission rooted in love, loss, and an enduring commitment to social good.
With a background in sustainability and environmental futures, and a passion for community building, I’ve always believed that lasting change begins with empathy and ends in action. Through UMF, I hope to channel my knowledge, values, and experiences into real solutions that uplift lives — from providing clean water to advancing education, health, and opportunity in underserved communities.
My vision is to build a legacy of service that empowers people, protects the environment, and reminds us all that hope can be restored — one act of kindness at a time.
— Sulaiman H.A. Maiyaki
From the Founder