Our Board Members are amazing, and we’d like you to meet one of our newest board members, Ashish Patel! Since our founding in 2006, the Gazelle Foundation’s board of directors has committed to providing access to clean water for the people of Burundi. Read on to get to know the people behind the mission who make what we do possible.
Why Water Is So Critical in Burundi
Water in Burundi is plentiful where we work, but it is often not clean. So many people living in rural areas of Burundi, where Gilbert Tuhabonye grew up, walk an average of 4 miles to access any kind of water.
We partner with local communities, hire locals, and source supplies nearby to construct spring-fed, low-tech water systems that last a lifetime. These water systems capture and filter spring water at the source, collect it in water storage tanks, and distribute clean water across verdant, green hills at water taps located near homes, schools, clinics, and markets.
These sustainable water systems reduce the walk from 4 miles to 400 meters, about one loop around a track. We turn the ownership over to the community which has the skills and know-how to maintain their water system. Water is available to anyone in need, no matter their tribe, religion, or background. With clean water, health improves, children attend school, and adults are able to focus on their hopes and dreams.
The Gazelle Foundation Welcomes Ashish Patel to the Board
Ashish Patel is the founder and CEO of Simpat Tech, a custom software development company that helps IT leaders realize their software development goals.
Ashish samples an authentic Burundian dish at Gilbert’s home in Burundi with his mom back in 2023.
How did you get connected to the Gazelle Foundation?
“I first learned about the Gazelle Foundation through Gilbert Tuhabonye. Gilbert was one of the first people I met when I moved to Austin, and he has played a meaningful role in my life and community here, including introducing me to my wife. Through Gilbert, I learned his story and the mission of the foundation.
I also spent a lot of time running with Michael Madison, a past executive director of the foundation and a training buddy, and those miles gave me even more perspective on the work. But it truly hit home when I had the chance to visit Burundi with Gilbert and see firsthand the difference the foundation is making.”
What motivated you to join the Board?
“I started my company, Simpat Tech, about ten years ago and have poured myself into building it. More recently, I’ve been looking for ways to give back in a way that feels meaningful and aligned with who I am.
The Gazelle Foundation checked a lot of boxes, giving back to my community, supporting a cause with clear and tangible impact, supporting close friends, and being connected to something I’m genuinely passionate about, especially after visiting Burundi. I also love that the foundation is rooted in community and connected to a personal passion of mine: running.”
How does your unique background and perspective help move the mission forward?
“Starting a company from scratch gives you experience across all aspects of building and running an organization, sales, marketing, operations, and the day-to-day discipline required to execute.
My company focuses on IT services and software development, but I’m ready to jump into any area where I can have the biggest impact and help the foundation keep moving forward.”
“Visiting Burundi was incredibly motivating. Seeing the water systems in the ground, being used by local families, and understanding the difference it has made compared to how people accessed water in the past made the impact real.”
Ashish and his wife Kelly attend the 2026 Spring For The Water Gala, a signature fundraiser for the Gazelle Foundation.
What are 2 to 4 specific ways you expect to contribute as a board member over the next year?
“I recently took on the role of treasurer, which I’m excited about. Over the last two years my company has been maturing our finance processes and systems, and I’m looking forward to bringing that mindset and experience to the foundation.
I hope to dig in, support where needed, and make thoughtful recommendations when I see opportunities to strengthen clarity, discipline, and effectiveness.”
What accomplishments or projects keep you motivated and engaged?
“Visiting Burundi was incredibly motivating. Seeing the water systems in the ground, being used by local families, and understanding the difference it has made compared to how people accessed water in the past made the impact real. I also deeply appreciate how flat the organization is. Donations go directly toward water projects managed by the foundation, and that efficiency makes me proud, because it means the work is having maximum impact.”
What do you like to do in your spare time?
“Running, spending time with my family, and traveling.”
Book, podcast, movie, or music recommendation?
“I’ve been really enjoying Ryan Holiday’s book, Stillness Is the Key.”
Anything else you’d like to share?
“For anyone looking for ways to give back, it can feel overwhelming because there are so many options. I recommend making a short list of what it means to you to give back and how you want to do it.
Even if the right opportunity is not in front of you today, when that moment comes, you’ll be confident in your decision.”
Continue Exploring Burundi & Clean Water
Although one of the poorest countries in the world Burundi has a vibrant, welcoming culture. Learn more about this East African country and how clean water systems make such a life-changing difference for health, hope, and long-term peace.
Explore a map of where all the water systems we have built are located in Burundi
See how the Murenge-Shanga water system came to life from start to finish
Learn more about Burundi’s sacred drumming tradition and see a version of it for yourself at the annual Gazelle Foundation Run For The Water
Two children fetch water from a water tap close to their home. Now the walk for clean water is so much shorter, freeing them up to attend school.