Over the years, we have discovered that we can ensure the greatest lasting effect in these regions when we invest in leadership.  MRI is investing in bright, motivated and skilled young international students who will be the future core of MRI International Teams.  This gift of professional education would have been an utter impossibility for these students without the scholarship financial support offered by MRI. During their educational phase, our team will provide in-country support to MRI missions in their country and after graduation will also provide professional expertise in future MRI centers for health care.

International team members active in humanitarian services in their communities have been selected to provide in country leadership to work directly on a daily basis with the orphans and widows' programs.

What is the goal of the International Team?
The goal of the MRI International Team is to develop ripple effects of Hope. When we invest in people through education and career possibilities, we develop local leadership. Equipped with skills and leadership, we leave these individuals with tremendous HOPE; helping their families, their communities and eventually their nations.

How is the International Team chosen?
There is no application process. International Team members did not actively seek their positions. These are people who learned of MRI in their towns and villages, and generously donated both time and talent volunteering with us. While we have many fantastic volunteers, these individuals stand out as particularly bright, motivate and skilled. Working and living side by side for several weeks under sometimes-stressful situations has proven to be an effective interview process.

Who are the students?

Hildegard “Ashley” Lucas - (Tanzania) – Dental Student
Ashley is in her 2nd year of a 3-year Assistant Dental Officer Degree in Mbeya, Tanzania.  Ashley recently won a national scholarship following a clinical and academic competition at Mumbilli University Dental School, and has been selected for further study.  Ashley is key in organizing MRI Tanzanian transportation and fee negotiations, and is becoming a very good surgeon in clinic.  She has a darling, handsome son and is a fashion designer.


Mary Jane Vinluan -  (Philippines)  - Dental Student
MJ is in her 3rd year of a 6 year Doctor of Dentistry Degree in Baguio City, Philippines.  She has a history rich in organizing and volunteering in medical missions.  She is excelling in her dental studies and was elected President of her class.  MJ is our key leader in bringing MRI missions to the remote mountain villages on Luzon Island Philippines.  When the US component of MRI is not in her country, she organizes colleagues to provide several preventative dental outreach programs to remote village schools.   She loves to hike and is an artist and vocalist.

Dunstan Masolele (Tanzania) – Orphan Scholarship and Widow Business Programs
Pastor Dunstan serves orphans and widows in Mwanza, TZ where he is active in community leadership.  Dunstan is working to provide shelter, medical and educational needs for orphaned children and mentor sustainable businesses of widows in Mwanwa, TZ.  He has earned scholarships for degrees in Education and Masters Degree in Mechanical Engineering.  Dunstan’s beautiful wife works along side him in their ministry.  They have 2 girls and 2 boys.  Dunstan is a former East African boxing champion, fluent in Russian, knows everyone in the city, and is always there to help.

Ida Namyalo (Uganda) – Nutritional and Business Consultant
Ida is working to consult and instruct the widows to improve learning in hygiene, nutrition, cooking and knowledge needed for a sustainable and profitable business.  She holds a degree in Nutrition and has worked in Uganda inner city feeding stations and hospice care. Ida has volunteered with MRI for the past 3 years in Uganda and Tanzania.  She appears all over East Africa when we most need help.  She is gifted at giving, has a wonderful smile, beautiful voice and enjoys cute hats.

Jonathan Okoth Okungu (Tanzania) -Orphan Scholarship and Widow Business Programs
Jonathan has been our compassionate interpreter in Tanzania for 5 years. He does a remarkable job both teaching and organizing volunteer tutors for the Orphan Scholarship Program, and working to secure shelter, medical and education for the orphans and mentor effective business groups for widows.  He holds a degree in Education and is a Pastor in Mwanza, TZ.  Jonathan has a lovely wife, and 3 adorable children.  He loves God, loves learning, and always has a big smile to share both.

What are the costs to provide scholarship?

• $175 is the average monthly support cost for living expenses of the student and his/her immediate family to allow school attendance
• $13,000 ($180/month) is the total cost for a 6 year Dental Degree in the Philippines
• $4,400 ($90/month) is the total cost for a 4 year Dental Therapist Degree in Tanzania.

How can I help?

To find our more, please contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , Director International Team.

Donate to the International Team