Our Story

The Djoumbe Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to uncovering and celebrating the rich history of the Comoros. Named after the extraordinary Djoumbé Fatima, a legendary queen who shaped the nation, our foundation aims to illuminate the diverse and vibrant stories of the Comorian people. Founded by Matthew Miller and Maddie Pollack, our journey began with a shared passion for uncovering African narratives. Inspired by their research in Islamic and African history, Matthew and Maddie committed themselves to making Comorian history accessible and engaging for everyone, especially younger generations.

Our mission is to bridge the gap in historical resources and opportunities for Comorian kids, ensuring that their heritage is not only preserved but also celebrated in contexts where it has been largely overlooked. We are dedicated to sharing the fascinating history of the Comoros through various educational initiatives, including a soon-to-be-launched podcast and a comprehensive book. Our podcast will dive deep into the enchanting history of the Comoros, unraveling the stories and events that have shaped this unique archipelago, while our book will offer readers a detailed exploration of the island nation's past.

We are currently seeking educators and archivists based in the Comoros, to capture living history and develop a Comorian history curriculum tailored for Comorian schools. Your help will allow us to continue to document, amplify, and teach about the fascinating history of the Comoros. By fostering a deep understanding and appreciation of their past, we hope to inspire and enable future generations of Comorians to share their rich cultural heritage with the world.

We aim to promote and preserve the islands' vibrant cultural narratives, empower Comorian youth, and bring global recognition to Comorian heritage.

Our mission

We're on a mission to change the way we think about historical narratives and history education. At the heart of the Djoumbé Foundation is our mission to spread the captivating history of the Comoros. We seek to bridge the gap in historical resources and opportunities for Comorian kids, ensuring that their heritage is not only preserved but also celebrated in contexts where it has been largely overlooked. Through our efforts, we aim to share the rich history of the Comoros with the world.

Our vision

We envision a world where the rich tapestry of Comorian history is woven into the educational fabric of the Comoros and recognized globally. Especially in an era of generative AI, the digital availability of historical narratives will support a cycle of ongoing cultural legacy. By fostering a more comprehensive understanding of the past, we hope to inspire future generations to build a brighter, more inclusive future. Together, we can ensure that the history of the Comoros is not just remembered, but revered, celebrated, and incorporated into the decisions of the future.

an aerial view of a small town with a mountain in the background

Our team

Matthew Miller

Co-Founder

Madeline Pollack