A Vision Rooted in Impact: Welcoming Our New Executive Director

Dear Friends,

Because of you, what began as a single well has become a movement bringing clean water to more than half a million people across South Sudan every day.

But our work is far from done.

Right now, millions in South Sudan still live without safe water. Climate change, rising displacement, and failing infrastructure make the need more urgent than ever. And for women and girls—who walk miles each day just to collect water—access isn’t just about health. It’s about education, economic opportunity, and dignity.

We’ve drilled over 650 wells. Now, we’re building on that foundation to reach even more communities with clean water, sanitation, and hygiene education—solutions that last and are led by local communities themselves.

I’m honored to step into the role of Executive Director at this pivotal time, and I invite you to keep building with us.

“Clean water is the foundation. At Water for South Sudan, we’re building lasting systems—water towers, sanitation, hygiene education, and programs that uplift women and girls—all grounded in community ownership.” “I’m honored to lead this next chapter, building on the powerful foundation Salva Dut created. The challenges are growing, but so is our resolve to meet them—with urgency, partnership, and deep local roots.”

If you're new to our story or want to revisit the heart of our mission, I invite you to read A Long Walk to Water—a powerful look at how it all began. And to see how that mission continues to grow today, follow us on social media for stories, updates, and impact.

Together, we can go further.

With deep gratitude,
Shannon Hesel
Executive Director