About us
Rooted in community. Growing together.
Shared Roots Gambia CIC is a Community Interest Company founded by two friends who fell in love with The Gambia and the people of Bakau — and decided to do something about it.
Our story
How it all began
Shared Roots Gambia was born from a friendship, a shared love of The Gambia, and a deep belief that small actions can create lasting change. Sarah Hanson and Claire Tope first visited Bakau and were moved by the warmth and resilience of the community — and by the very real challenges facing the children at Bakau Primary School.
The school serves over 100 children, but the facilities tell a different story: broken toilets, classrooms without windows, crumbling floors, and no library. These aren't just inconveniences — they are barriers to learning, dignity, and safety.
Rather than walk away, Sarah and Claire came home and got to work. They registered Shared Roots Gambia as a Community Interest Company in the UK (reg. 17333195), built relationships with community leaders in Bakau, and began raising funds to make a real, lasting difference.
Every pound raised will go directly to the school or health centre. There are no admin fees, just two determined women and a growing community of supporters who believe that every child deserves a safe place to learn.
Our work also extends beyond the school gates. The local healthcare centre serves the wider Bakau community, and we are committed to supporting its vital work — ensuring that families have access to the basic medical care they need to thrive.
The people behind it
Meet the founders
Sarah & Claire
Co-founders, Shared Roots Gambia CIC
Sarah Hanson
Co-founder
Sarah has a deep connection to The Gambia and the Bakau community. Her passion for education and community development drives the day-to-day work of Shared Roots Gambia.
Claire Tope
Co-founder
Claire brings energy, creativity, and a fierce commitment to making things happen. She has a deep love for The Gambia and a drive to create a positive impact and support healthcare in Bakau.
What drives us
Our mission
To improve the learning environment and wellbeing of children at Bakau Primary School, The Gambia — through community-led fundraising, transparent project delivery, and lasting partnerships built on trust and mutual respect.
Transparency
Every donor knows exactly where their money goes. We publish updates, photos, and progress reports for every project phase.
Community first
We work with the Bakau community, not for them. Local leaders, teachers, and parents shape every decision we make.
100% to the Community
Every pound raised goes directly to improving facilities for the children of Bakau Primary and the local health centre.
Long-term thinking
We're not here for a one-off project. Our three-phase plan is designed to create lasting, sustainable improvements that serve the school and community for generations.
Join us
Whether you want to donate, fundraise, or simply spread the word — there's a place for you in the Shared Roots community.