Maria Nthala holds a bachelor’s degree in social science from the University of Malawi. During her undergraduate studies, Maria volunteered with Little Big Prints as a mentor for girls in secondary schools within Zomba from 2019-2022. She also volunteers with Chinsapo Community Youth Organisation and serves as a vice chairperson. She is passionate about girls education and youth empowerment. Her passion for girls education led her to found an initiative called “Girls with a difference,” where she mentors young primary school girls from her community. In her free time, she likes interacting with kids and riding a bike.