About Our CEO

Ruth Vanderpuije-Affum, affectionately known as Shika Maku, is a dynamic, God-fearing humanitarian and the visionary founder of the RuthXperience Project Foundation, a non-profit organization that exists to restore dignity, hope, and opportunity to vulnerable individuals, especially orphans, street children, widows, and the marginalized in Ghana. Born and partially raised in Nungua, a coastal town in Accra, Ruth’s early life was marked by deep personal loss, including the death of both parents. This painful reality forced her to live in different homes and attend four different basic schools before completing secondary education at Osu Salem Secondary School and later continued to Datus Complex Senior High School in Tema. Despite the ups and downs, Ruth’s unwavering FAITH, DETERMINATION, and COMPASION carried her through. She pursued higher education at the University of Ghana, studying Public Administration and Information Science, while also nurturing her creative side at Abrantie College of Cosmetology, where she earned a Diploma as a Beauty Therapist. Ruth’s journey has given her a deep and personal understanding of rejection, neglect, and emotional pain. Rather than let her past define her, she chose to rise turning her pain into purpose. Inspired by God and fueled by a desire to see others smile again, she launched the RuthXperience Project Foundation, where she leads outreach efforts including: • Feeding and celebrating street children in restaurants • Supporting widows with essentials and emotional care • Sponsoring school fees, provisions, and mentorship for fatherless children • Advocating for maltreated orphans and widows living in hostile homes A woman of ambition, humility, and relentless empathy, Ruth is known for her selflessness and her passion to “do anything to put a smile on someone’s face.” Her life continues to touch hundreds, reminding the world that kindness is powerful, and that love especially God’s love can heal the deepest wounds.