A sit down with our CEO
Ian Stone has been part of Village Water (VW) for over 13 years, witnessing the organisation mature from a small but impactful charity, into the organisation it is today. In this piece, Ian reflects on how he first became involved, the challenges faced along the way, and what lies ahead for the charity.
Choosing Work That Matters
Ian began volunteering with VW after studying property investment and finance at university. Keen to gain practical experience, he explored volunteering opportunities with local charities and was particularly drawn to water charities, recognising access to safe water as a fundamental human need.
An opportunity arose to support Village Water’s website and Ian joined the charity in a voluntary capacity. From there, his involvement grew steadily. While the cause first drew him in, it was the stories from the field and seeing the impact of the work first-hand that truly cemented his commitment, and why he hasn’t left since!
Responding to the challenge of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic was one of the most challenging periods for VW and the wider sector. However, because VW’s work is closely linked to public health, activities were able to continue when many programmes had to pause.
“COVID-19 was without doubt the biggest challenge, not just for Village Water but for the sector as a whole … Our long-standing relationships with local partners were critical. They allowed us to pivot quickly and adapt our activities to support COVID-19 prevention efforts. That flexibility, combined with strong partnerships, helped us respond effectively during a very uncertain period.”
Ian Stone, CEO
During the outbreak another project, funded by Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) changed mid project to focus on emergency communication and hygiene promotion, including information materials, mobile messaging, radio broadcasts, soap distribution, handwashing stands and bleach supplies. These efforts reached more than 100,000 people across Zambia highlighting the importance of flexibility and trusted partnerships during times of crisis.
Projects that make a lasting difference
One of the most transformative initiatives Ian has worked on is the carbon-financed water project. Over the past five years, this programme has supported the repair and maintenance of water points across over 3,600 communities, reaching 1.3 million people.
Although it uses a different funding model to traditional philanthropy, it has enabled Village Water to achieve far greater scale than would have been possible through donations alone.
At a more local level, enterprise development has been a key success to sustainable water services. By strengthening local drilling capacity, investing in training, and supporting community-based enterprises, Village Water is helping to build more resilient and sustainable water services while reducing dependence more expensive alternatives.
The Importance of Partnership
Some of Ian’s most meaningful experiences come from the people he has met through VW’s work. Early on, Ian spent a month staying with Mubiana Muyangwa and his family in Zambia while supporting monitoring work. Mubiana is now the Executive Director of Empowered Communities Helping Others, one of VW’s local partners. Sharing daily life offered valuable insight into the community and reinforced the importance of strong, respectful partnerships.
Community, creativity and campaigns
Fundraising has also been a source of connection and creativity. Over the years, Ian has taken part in a wide range of activities, from running a half marathon dressed as Santa to volunteering at music festivals, joining fancy dress ceilidhs, and supporting local radio appeals.
“Those moments of creativity and community are a big part of what makes fundraising enjoyable.”
Leading with purpose
What keeps Ian awake at night is the responsibility that comes with the work.
“We are accountable to the communities we serve, our partners, our supporters and our team. The success of our work supports jobs and helps millions of people access safe water, so it really matters that we do things well.”
Looking ahead
Ian sees strong potential for VW’s continued growth. In the short term, the focus is on strengthening individual giving and corporate partnerships, alongside fully testing and delivering the district-wide planning approach.
“My ambition is that Village Water continues to grow in scale and impact, while staying true to our values.”Together, Ian’s reflections highlight VW’s ongoing commitment to partnership, people and the belief that sustainable access to safe water can transform lives.
