Where it began
In 2010, Dr Charlotte Hawkins travelled to Zanzibar and witnessed children living with disabilities that, in many parts of the world, could have been treated quickly and effectively.
She met children born with club foot who had never received treatment, families struggling to access healthcare and communities trying to support children with very limited resources. She also saw wider challenges around mobility support and education that were preventing children from reaching their full potential.
What she saw had a lasting impact and became the catalyst for creating meaningful change.
Turning concern into action
After returning to the UK, Charlotte began working to create practical solutions that could deliver long term impact.
She built partnerships, raised awareness and secured support that would eventually lead to the creation of the Infant Club Foot Appeal in 2011.
What began as a desire to help children access treatment quickly grew into something much larger as new needs became clear. The charity expanded to include prosthetic support and educational initiatives because Charlotte recognised that helping children thrive required more than solving one challenge.
Her approach has always focused on creating sustainable change rather than short term fixes.
A hands on approach
Charlotte’s leadership has always been deeply personal and practical.
She has spent years raising funds, building partnerships, organising equipment shipments, supporting clinics and helping drive projects that directly improve lives across Zanzibar and Pemba.
Her commitment goes far beyond strategy. She has remained closely connected to the communities the charity supports and continues to champion their needs.
That personal dedication remains at the heart of everything the charity does.
A growing legacy
Thousands of children and families have already benefitted from Charlotte’s work, but she remains focused on what still needs to be done.
Her vision continues to drive the charity forward as it expands access to treatment, mobility support and education.
Because of her determination, thousands of children now have greater freedom, independence and opportunity and many more will in the years ahead.
