The Nakivale Beacon Group began as an idea between friends from American University who refused to stand by as the global aid system unraveled. In the wake of the 2025 dismantling of USAID and the collapse of many traditional foreign assistance programs, we saw how quickly communities like Nakivale were left behind. Rather than sit idle, we decided to act — creating a small, independent organization built on transparency, collaboration, and trust between donors and local leaders.
Liam Hill – Co-founder – Director of Strategy and Partnerships (he/him/his)
Liam Hill is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Nakivale Beacon Group. A graduate of American University with a degree in International Relations focused on international development and peace and conflict resolution, Liam brings a multidisciplinary background spanning finance, global anti-corruption, and international development and public health.
He has supported major health and development initiatives addressing Ebola, COVID-19, and Mpox clinical studies and trials across the Democratic Republic of Congo. Previously, he worked in international anti-bribery and corruption compliance, collaborating with organizations and companies throughout Mexico while based in Jalisco. Liam has also lived and worked across Latin America, including several cities in Brazil, where he partnered with local Rotary clubs on an anti-Zika campaign and pursued studies at PUC-Rio. A former Rotary Youth Exchange member, he remains deeply committed to advancing global development and community resilience through service and collaboration.
Blake Vining – Co-Founder & Director of Programs (he/him/his)
Blake Vining is the Co-Founder and Director of Programs at the Nakivale Beacon Group. He is an international development professional with a background in humanitarian programming, refugee resettlement, and global operations. Blake holds a Master’s Degree in International Affairs with a concentration in Global Security from King’s College London.
His experience spans nonprofit, government contracting, and grassroots development sectors, where he has managed partnerships and supported the implementation of community-led initiatives. At the Nakivale Beacon Group, Blake focuses on building sustainable partnerships and expanding humanitarian resources to strengthen locally driven impact across refugee communities.
Michael James – Co-Founder & Director of Finance and Strategy (he/him/his)
Michael James is the Co-Founder and Director of Finance and Strategy at the Nakivale Beacon Group. He brings over four years of experience working with the United Nations on refugee resettlement and humanitarian operations, with a focus on advancing durable solutions and expanding access to essential social services for displaced populations.
Michael holds a Graduate Certificate in International Economics from Johns Hopkins University, where he specialized in international financial institutions and development policy. His background in humanitarian affairs and economic development informs NBG’s strategic approach to fostering sustainable, community-driven impact.
Nakivale Beacon Group 