About
Help Lesotho
Building Resilient Youth. Strengthening Communities.
Help Lesotho works alongside communities to support youth mental health, gender equity, and leadership development.
Our programs are locally led, evidence-informed, and rooted in resilience. We believe every young person deserves the opportunity to heal, learn, and grow.
Help Lesotho is a registered non-profit operating in both Canada and Lesotho – not as a donor-recipient relationship, but as one unified organization. We raise and steward all of our own funds, and every decision is made together.
On the ground in Lesotho, our team of 40 Basotho staff members delivers proprietary life skills and mental health programs – developed by Basotho, for Basotho. Rooted in local knowledge, culture, and lived experience, our programs equip children, youth, and families with the skills and support they need to build healthier, safer, and more resilient communities.
In Canada, a lean five-person team focuses on fundraising, governance, and program development — amplifying the work without directing it.
Our international Board of Directors provides fiduciary oversight, strategic leadership, and accountability, ensuring that every aspect of our work remains mission-driven and community-centered.
Our Story
From One Idea to Lasting Impact
Founded in 2004 by Dr. Peg Herbert, Help Lesotho began with a simple commitment: listen first, respond to locally identified needs, and build long-term partnerships.
What started as a grassroots response to the HIV/AIDS crisis has evolved into a trusted organization focused on youth education, mental health, and building healthy, resilient futures.
Sister Alice, of the Sisters of Charity of Ottawa, first invited Peg to visit her in Lesotho after the two formed a friendship while Sister Alice was studying at the University of Ottawa under Dr. Herbert. That invitation sparked a lifelong connection to Lesotho and the beginnings of Help Lesotho’s journey.
Sister Alice, of the Sisters of Charity of Ottawa, first invited Peg to visit her in Lesotho after the two formed a friendship while Sister Alice was studying at the University of Ottawa under Dr. Herbert. That invitation sparked a lifelong connection to Lesotho and the beginnings of Help Lesotho’s journey.
Leadership, Governance & Partners
Leadership & Staff
Meet the dedicated team in Canada and Lesotho combining professional expertise with deep local knowledge.
Governance & Financials
We are committed to transparency, responsible stewardship, and rigorous accountability standards.
Partners & Recognition
We have raised over CA$30,000,000 without government support through collaboration and shared accountability.
Donor Testimonials
Our donors value transparency and measurable outcomes. Many have supported us for years because they see real change and trust our stewardship.
News & Updates
Stay up to date with organizational news and announcements in the media.
From Heartbreak to Hope: Relebohile
When you meet Relebohile, the first thing you notice is her presence – a warm, steady energy, a powerful voice, and a…
Finding the Courage to Be Seen: Nokoana
“Now I’m here – finally happy” Nokoana is 24 years old, with a radiant smile that quietly tells a story of…
A Grandmother’s Journey: Malehlotha
At 86 years old, Nkhono Malehlotha carries the wisdom of nearly nine decades in her eyes, spending her days caring for…
Join Us at an Upcoming Event
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June 2026 | Strawberry Social | Ottawa
Please join us for our second-annual Summer Strawberry Social – a relaxed evening of conversation, connection, sweet treats, and stories from Lesotho.
You won’t want to miss our very special guests who recently returned from the 2026 Lesotho Donor Trip and who will share stories, reflections and experiences from their time there.
Please RSVP here & feel free to bring a guest or two!
Whether you’ve been connected to Help Lesotho for years or are simply curious to learn more, this is a fun and welcoming evening to gather with friends – old and new.
September 2026 | Golf Tournament | Ottawa
We’re teeing up for another unforgettable day! Help Lesotho’s annual golf tournament returns with even more fun, heart and purpose. Come out and be part of something special!
Registration opens soon!
Contact
Have a question? We’d love to hear from you.
Explore. Connect. Get Involved.
Whether you’re a donor, partner, or supporter, we invite you to learn more about our work and the impact your support makes possible.
Learn more about our impact, annual reports and financial transparency in our Impact & Accountability section.