Ann Daubeny was not a celebrity philanthropist or a household name. She was far more than that—a fiercely compassionate educator, humanitarian, and advocate for dignity, who spent her life creating bridges where there were walls. From rural classrooms in East Africa to the refugee corridors of southern Europe, Ann devoted her life to ensuring that every human being—regardless of geography, gender, or circumstance—had a chance to thrive.
The Ann Daubeny Charitable Trust UK was established in 1971 to carry forward her vision of a fairer, more inclusive world, where ideas are nurtured, communities are trusted, and funding reaches those who need it most.
Ann was born in 1942 in Oxfordshire, England, the only child of a railway engineer and a nurse. Her childhood was shaped by post-war hardship, community resilience, and a mother who never turned away a hungry neighbor.
Attended St Hugh’s College, Oxford, reading English Literature and later pursuing a postgraduate diploma in Education.
She declined a university fellowship to pursue volunteer teaching in Uganda—a decision that marked the beginning of her life’s mission.
“The world does not need more critics. It needs more quiet builders.” — Ann Daubeny
In the early 1970s, Ann moved to Mbale, Uganda during a time of political instability. There, she:
Established a makeshift school under a baobab tree for displaced children.
Trained over 60 local women to become literacy mentors.
Created a “traveling chalkboard” program for remote villages.
Later in her career, she worked in Peshawar and Quetta under the Commonwealth Women’s Fellowship, developing:
Skills-training initiatives for Afghan refugee women.
Partnerships with local NGOs for maternal health awareness.
Back in the UK, Ann focused her energy on:
Supporting asylum seekers in London and Leeds.
Mentoring young educators in underserved boroughs.
Founding the Community Shelters Network, which offered emergency beds to single mothers in crisis.
Ann passed away peacefully in October 2019, surrounded by former students, friends, and mentees. Her will directed that 80% of her estate be given to Ann Daubeny Charitable Trust UK.
Since 1971, her Trust has:
Disbursed over £12 million in grants.
Reached 30+ countries.
Funded health clinics, safe schools, and micro-enterprises rooted in her philosophy of dignity, community, and self-reliance.
We don’t just honour Ann Daubeny’s name—we honour her life’s work. Every project funded, every child educated, every woman empowered through the Trust is a reflection of her fierce, gentle, and unshakeable commitment to humanity
She wrote us letters every month for years—always in her own hand. She never forgot where the work really happened: on the ground.”
— Josephine, teacher in Mbale
Whether you are a changemaker in a rural village, a grassroots leader working in crisis zones, or a quiet voice with a big idea—we are here to listen, support, and fund your journey.
“At the Ann Daubeny Charitable Trust UK, our mission is not just to give—but to ignite possibility.”
At the Ann Daubeny Charitable Trust UK, our mission is not just to give—but to ignite possibility. Whether you are a changemaker in a rural village, a grassroots leader working in crisis zones, or a quiet voice with a big idea—we are here to listen, support, and fund your journey
Get in touch with us today!
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