Our Story

Our Promise

100% of every donation goes directly to the children we serve.

WHERE IT ALL BEGAN

From London to Colombia

In 2008, at an international conference in London, two strangers discovered they shared an extraordinary dream: to transform the lives of Colombia’s most vulnerable children.

Peter Mowland, seeking to give back after a successful business career, and Lady Yomara Rodriguez, driven by her Colombian heritage and family’s charitable tradition, immediately recognized in each other a kindred spirit.
conducting research, Within months, they traveled to Colombia together securing government approvals, and building a team of passionate volunteers. By December 2008, Santa Maria Foundation was officially born.

“We both held the strong belief that every child has the ability to flourish in society, notwithstanding the origins of their birth.”
– Foundation Principle

OUR FOUNDERS

Two Hearts, One Vision

United by a belief that every child deserves the chance to flourish, regardless of their circumstances

Peter R. Mowland

President & Co-Founder

After a distinguished business career earning international recognition including the Queen’s Award for Export, Peter sought to dedicate his experience and resources to helping children unable to help themselves.

Lady Y. Rodriguez

Co-Founder & Trustee

Born in Colombia with dual nationality, Lady Yomara grew up in a family with a strong tradition of charitable work. Educated at Cambridge, London, and Barcelona, she left a successful career to focus entirely on the Foundation.

Key Milestones

Turning Compassion Into Action

Choosing Colombia as their canvas, Peter and Lady Yomara traveled extensively to secure government permissions and build a local team of dedicated volunteers.

 

What started as support for existing orphanages evolved into the Santa Maria Foundation (SMF) in 2008, followed by the opening of our specialized school in 2012.

2008

The Meeting

Peter and Lady Yomara meet in London and conceive the project.

2009

Foundation Established

Official recognition and start of support programs.

2012

The School Opens

Launching the Music & Language curriculum.

Our Team

Meet With Expert Teacher

Our dedicated teachers and staff are committed to nurturing every girl’s academic, emotional, and personal development. With compassion, experience, and professionalism, they create a safe and inspiring environment where each student is supported to learn, grow, and thrive.

Peter Mowland

President and Founder of our c

Lady Yomara Rodriguez Cardenas

Co-Founder – Trustee

Beatriz De Robayo

Trustee

Elizabeth Rodriguez Rincon

Administration Manager

Erica Catrena

Voluntary PR and Marketing Exe

Another Team Member

Administration Manager

Be Part of Our Story

Join us in transforming lives. Every contribution helps us continue our mission of empowering vulnerable girls through education.