Marc Vaernewyck has served as Program Director for Handicap International Mali since 2010. Handicap International is an independent aid organization working in situations of poverty and exclusion, conflict and disaster. The organization works alongside people with disabilities and vulnerable populations, taking action and bearing witness in order to respond to their essential needs, improve their living conditions, support their efforts to become self-reliant, and promote respect for their dignity and fundamental rights.

In its 30 years, Handicap International has set up projects in more than 60 countries. The organization has also won numerous awards, including the 2011 Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize, the 1997 Nobel Peace Prize (co-recipient with partners at the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL)), and the 1996 United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Nansen Medal.