Our Core Team

MacDuff Phiri is the Chief Executive Officer and lead consultant at SGR Training International, a company that specializes in leadership and management training and  strategic communications. He holds a Master of Science degree in Development Management and a BSc in Social Science from the Open Universit (United Kingdom) and University of Malawi, respectively. With over 24 years of professional experience, MacDuff has held various high-level positions, including Project Manager for VSO, Deputy Director for the Ugandan Society for Disabled Children in London, Country Director for Concern Universal, Country Director of Christian Aid, Deputy Country Director for the Clinton Health Access Initiative. Most recently, he served as one of the Chief Advisers in the President of Malawi’s office, as well as acting Executive Director for the Shaping Our Future Foundation. MacDuff is an experienced and skilled leader with a proven track record of delivering impactful projects and initiatives.

Dr. Melda Phiri is a medical doctor, researcher, public health specialist, philanthropist, and entrepreneur with a passion for pediatrics and nutrition. She holds a BSc in Biology and Demography, an MBBS, and a Master’s degree in International Public Health from Liverpool John Moores University. As a researcher at the University of North Carolina Project Malawi, she has contributed to research that has been published in prestigious journals such as the New England Journal of Medicine and the Journal of Global Health Reports. In addition to her medical and research expertise, Dr. Melda is also a Co-Manager and Director at SGR Holdings, where she leads the company’s commercial agriculture and business subsidiaries. She is dedicated to improving the lives of children and mothers and to effectively influencing policies in the health and nutrition sector.

Kele holds over 15 years of executive experience and a deep understanding of mass communication and public relations practices as an experienced and qualified Sales and Marketing Manager. He has successfully led the development and implementation of revenue-generating strategies in major hotels. In his current role as a mass communication and public relations consultant, Kele works with organizations to enhance their brand visibility and public image locally and internationally. He is also responsible for developing the organization's external communication. As a results-driven strategist, Kele has vast experience in providing expert relationship management and strategic guidance to clients. Kele believes in building trust through a demonstrated ability to optimize performance and achieve desired results. On leadership and people experience, Kele has vast experience managing small and large teams in order to reach desired organizational goals, in line with their policies, values, and mission.