Team Ghaia

Meet the dedicated individuals driving our mission forward:

Linnéa Hjort

Founder

Founding Ghaia Foundation began with a simple yet transformative morning walk in rural Mozambique. An encounter with a single mother, who lost her home overnight and faced eviction, sparked a mission to provide secure housing for single women in need.

With a global perspective shaped by living across South America, Europe, and Africa, I speak French, Spanish, Swedish, English and Portuguese and graduated in Export Area Management. I value the stability of a safe home, a foundation I strive to create for others.

As the on-site founder, I ensure that every donation is used effectively, bridging efforts between Sweden and Mozambique to build lasting impact.

Håkan Hjort

Chairman

Experienced former diplomat with skills in International and Government Relations, Crisis Management, Business Development & Governance, Public Diplomacy and Nation Branding. Been working longer periods in countries like Ethiopia, Peru, Morocco, Spain and France and master several languages, among them Spanish and French.

Valérie Downey Bergström

Secretary

I’m Valérie, a versatile creative leader who has lived, worked, and studied in multiple countries. After meeting Linnéa through work and sharing a passion for paying it forward, I joined Ghaia Foundation’s Board. 

I currently work at H&M Group, and have previously worked at social impact companies, tech startup and scale-ups, and non-profit organisations. I’m particularly passionate about human rights, music and events, creating new experiences, nature, production, and writing. 

Sara Welfordsson

Accountant

I have a degree in Economics Business/Accounting and got several years of work experience in the finance industry in Stockholm.

Throughout my life I have traveled a lot around the world and lived in England, France and Australia. I have always felt privileged to live in freedom and in a safe environment with family and friends. Therefore I have, since I was very young, also felt passionate about helping people in need.

I have volunteered in an orphanage in India, been helping unaccompanied refugee minors in Sweden and I also got my own integration project called Integreramera. It feels so important and good to be a part of Linnea’s incredible work in Linga Linga with this talented team.

Maria Elander

Board member

I have a passion for people and what we can achieve together. I’m a strong believer that there are always possibilities to make a positive change if we listen to and respect each other’s needs.
Throughout my life and career in various global positions at IKEA and through my own consultancy business, I have had the privilege to work and live internationally in Asia, US and Europe. That experience has really shaped my life, how I want to live and also how I want to contribute to others.

In 2023 when I was visiting Linga Linga and met Linnéa the founder of Ghaia I was amazed how she has integrated with the people in the village. Being on-site and work together with the women makes such a difference. They are a team which I’m very proud to be part of!