2019

2019 Y.I.L Fellows

Africa’s Young Innovation Leaders

EXCELLENCE
We selected people that have shown a track record of excellence in their personal development, career and academics.

MASTERY
Our fellows have some level of mastery in a hard skill. Beyond getting a university/ polytechnic education, they have obtained further training in some skill.

DIVERSITY
Our fellows are graduates of 22 higher institutions, from 31 disciplines, and from 20 States of Nigeria. This edition, we had participants from South Africa and Ghana.

Elizabeth is a passionate economist whose interest lies in research on human behavioural patterns and in volunteering towards environmental sanitation. She emerged as the Best Female Graduating Student from the Faculty of the Social Sciences and the Best Graduating Student from the Department of Economics, University of Ibadan, Nigeria in 2017. She was among the 150 delegates selected to attend the 42nd Business Today International Conference that held in New York, United States of America in 2016. She has led several groups involved in varying projects, one of which waste nylons were recycled to produce a prototype rain-proof drawstring bag for pupils in rural areas. She also worked with other students to research the effects of the Nigerian 2016 Inflation on University of Ibadan’s Students’ Savings and Consumption. She is looking to influence public policy around waste generation and use in Nigeria. Consequently, Elizabeth continuously seeks platforms that develop and sharpen her ability to be a phenomenal asset to the human race in problem solving.

Nonjabulo Gumede is an emerging researcher, social entrepreneur and an African enthusiast from South Africa, who is passionate about the process of combating local and global structures of inequality, injustice and misrule. She holds a Bachelors of Arts degree majoring in Political Science and International Relations and an LLB degree from the University of Witwatersrand. She has vested herself in the study of social justice, human rights and identity politics. She is the founder of “Travel4Change Adventures”- an organization which is committed to addressing African development and policy issues. The intent of this organization is to bring about political and sociological enlightenment in the most creative way. Her vision is to run relief programs around Africa and improve economic markets. Her desire is to lead conversations on difficult topics relating to identity politics in Africa and engage political forces with marginalized communities through projects, books, documentaries and seminars.

Godspower is a medical doctor and researcher with keen interest in the fields of molecular biology, bioinformatics, genetics and translational oncology. He has participated twice in the International Biology Olympiad. He was the best graduating medical student in the University of Ibadan in 2018, bagging several other awards. He has obtained certifications in genomics and bioinformatics and hopes to develop simple solutions in the battle against disease, especially cancer. Furthermore, he has a passion for health literacy and healthcare access and has participated in several health outreaches to different parts of Nigeria. He is also part of a team of young health professionals currently qualified for the finals of the WHO Africa Innovation Challenge, committed to solving Africa’s health literacy problem.

Tobiloba is a programmer, prolific writer, passionate educator and technology advocate. He constantly strives to create a sustainable future by employing technology tools and coding best practices. His strong desire as a passionate educator led him to co-found Dataly.ai, a community that publishes stories worth reading on data science and machine learning. He currently works as the Lead Android Developer for Univelcity, where he designs and builds advanced applications for the android platform. He also mentors passionate learners who are willing to become world-class developers. Currently, Tobiloba volunteers as the Regional Program Assistant for the Andela Learning Community where he works closely with facilitators, mentors, and code reviewers in the regions to cater for 30,000+ participants. Tobiloba obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science where he was consistently ranked among the best in his class. A voracious and ravenous reader always researching and solving problems related to artificial intelligence and machine learning. Ten years from now, Tobiloba hopes that he becomes a research scientist assisting with the advancement of technology in Africa and becoming an agent of change and source of illumination to the world at large with primary focus on building better communities and inspiring greatness in people.

Chukwuemeka is a Project Manager, Digital Marketing Strategist, and a Social Entrepreneur. He obtained a Bachelor of Technology in Agricultural Economics from the Federal University of Technology Owerri. Chukwuemeka is a Chartered Financial Analyst Investment Certificate Holder. He is knowledgeable in research and development, business development, corporate valuation, financial analysis and modelling, with interest in business tools. He has earned valuable experience through internships, professional courses and trainings within Africa. Over the years, Chukwuemeka has worked for various NGOs and taken up leadership positions, which has led to awards and stellar achievements. He is the founder of DCON GROUP – an agribusiness which aims at improving the lives of over 70% of Nigerians employed in agriculture through financial literacy. His vision is to contribute in feeding the globe by educating agribusiness firms in efficient allocation of capital, through offering investment advisory services and suitable financial products, to increase the number of commercially viable agribusiness firms in Africa.

Mahmud Muhammad Ibrahim is a young activist, a member of YALI (Young African Leaders Initiative Yobe State), Nigeria chapter. He is a Director at Forward Yobe Forward (FYF), and team lead at Strategy and Innovation for Development Initiative (SI4Dev). He is a team leader with different academic awards and ICT skills. He has accomplished many projects through community development services that include: taking back the less privileged to school, free ICT trainings, and community development projects. Mahmud’s dream is to be an influencer and a change maker in his region.

Okonkwo Kenneth is a Carrington Youth Fellow of the United States Consulate, a ONE Champion, and a Development Knowledge Facilitator of the SDGs. He is passionate about hunger and poverty alleviation. Currently, Kenneth is a Project Manager at Protectozone, where he has trained and empowered over 2,300 women, children and youths with sustainable, innovative and climate smart agricultural practices as a means to combat hidden hunger and create employment opportunities. Kenneth holds a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Technology from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, and a Certificate in Business Administration from Pan Atlantic University, Lagos. He is currently working on United States Consulate sponsored project; FEED II, where he trains indigent youths from the rural parts of Lagos on sustainable city smart agriculture to improve their livelihoods. He hopes to establish an Agricultural training Institute to train, prepare and equip next generation of sustainable food producers.

Adelowo Solomon is an Aquaculturist with passion for excellence and mission based impact. He emerged best graduating student in the Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries Management in the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta. He has won several notable awards, few of which are: Pa Isaac Thomas Otubusin Memorial Prize for the Best Final Year Student in Fish Farming Engineering; Senate Annual Prize for the First Class Honours Graduating Student; Agribusiness Champion in Nigeria by YALI Network. Solomon is skilled in teaching his discipline and conducting academic research. He is a member of Fisheries Society of Nigeria (FISON). He has also obtained proficiency certificates in Designing for Environmental Sustainability and Social Impact. He is an associate ambassador at Institute for Sound Education and Health (ISERH). He is the founder of Solofish Initiative, a social enterprise geared towards engaging youth to utilize Aquapreneurship. The initiative also aims at strengthening the capacity of fish farmers around Nigeria to increase their sustainable production levels. He hopes to become a world-class professional that would harness the potential of fisheries and aquaculture to reduce hunger and poverty.

Nicholas is a trained food and agribusiness expert with the International Centre for Development Oriented Research in Agriculture, Netherlands. He graduated with a first class in Food Science and Technology from the Kogi State University and currently a master degree candidate of Food Technology at the University of Ibadan. He is the founder of Ajaoko Agritect Limited; an award-winning Start-up that is providing smart solutions for African Food and Agriculture. In 2018, Nicholas led a team to formulate a policy brief on “Policy Incentives for Implementing Climate Agriculture” during Foodathon SDG e-conference at Wageningen University and Research, Netherland. Nicholas is a next generation Social Media Ambassador for Global Food Security Symposium 2019 at the Chicago Council for Global Affairs. He is an Alumni of Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Foundation. Nick, received a Presidential Award as the Finalist of “Aso Villa Demo Day” from the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2016. He is also a recipient of Nigeria Innovation Award of the Best e-Agricultural Platform in 2017. Nicholas looks forward to contributing significantly to the availability of safe, sufficient and nutritious food for Africa through innovation and extensive research and development.

Oladokun Oluwasegun is a Nigerian serial internet entrepreneur, winner of the Hackvote Hackathon 2018, teams coordinator for International Hult Prize competition in FUTO, and a member of the Young African Leadership Initiative Network. Oluwasegun currently works with DevelopHowTo as the Chief Innovation Officer. He is the convener of Entrepreneurs Factory, and the Founder/CEO of Excessneeds Digital, a digital product consulting agency described by 4Kreport as a “catalyst for innovation in Nigeria.” He is the campus brand of notable brands, such as: Unilever, Ingressive LLC, Mypadi.ng, and Aparoksha. Oluwasegun has proficiency in android development, web design, UI/UX design, and project management. He strives to become a major instigator of technology in Africa in the nearest future by introducing tech inventories that will automate processes at workplace.

Rahila Ibrahim Ahmad is a pharmacist who has passion for community development services. She currently works for ProNov, a start-up that provides solutions for poor inventory management, disjointed supply chain, poor financial inclusion for people at the bottom of the pyramid as well as high costs of drugs in disadvantaged community . Her involvement in the open Government Partnership (Local), kaduna State, has helped her reached out to people to impact knowledge and help them understand what the OGP is about, especially through town hall meetings. She has participated in improving healthcare indices of people by organizing, volunteering and participating in medical outreaches in and out of her community. She is also an advocate for Adolescent and Youth Reproductive Health, which is important to ensure that youth have access to reproductive health. She sees herself as a future innovator in the global supply chain of pharmaceuticals to steer the agenda for sustainable development so as to ensure that the right commodities get to the right people at the right time in the right quantity.

Lois is a young passionate environmental engineer/specialist with interests in water, sanitation and health. She has acquired a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from Swansea University and Newcastle University respectively in Environmental Engineering in the United Kingdom. She currently works with Africa Infrastructure Foundation in Lagos, Nigeria. Lois has two years of experience in the non-profit sector carrying out several activities ranging from desk research to field study. Lois has a proven ability to plan, analyse, research, design and adequate knowledge of process development, environmental testing, and process improvement. In the recent past, Lois had worked as environmental specialist on the UNICEF-sponsored water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) studies for peri-urban areas in Nigeria. Lois was also involved as environmental enumerator in the monitoring and evaluation project of the World Bank-funded National Urban Water Sector Reform Project for Ekiti State in Nigeria. By way of these engagements, Lois has developed competences in project management, monitoring and evaluation and consulting. Lois is recently working on the design and implementation of water treatment systems for towns in Nigeria and also looks forward to developing solutions to public environmental health issues, waste problems and provide sustainable water supply services to the poor.

Victor is a visionary, proactive and versatile youth who is passionate about leadership and human capital development. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Ibadan and he is interested in bringing innovation into the Human Resource (HR) space through the use of emerging technologies. Victor has certifications in Human Resource Management and Project Management from the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI, USA) and from the Project Management Institute (PMI, USA), respectively. During his undergraduate days, he was a recipient of the Ogbomoso Pivotal Club Scholarship. In 2017, he was selected among the 40 participants to take part in the Youth Leadership Bootcamp, organized by The Future Africa Project and Ford Foundation. He was a National Peer Educator on Financial Inclusion (an initiative of the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Securities and Exchange commission) where he led a team of about 50 corps members that impacted over 1600 individuals covering 8 schools and 4 market areas in just 5 months. Victor is a 2019 Commonwealth Open Source Fellow. In few years from now, he plans to provide innovation in the HR space.

Omolara is a Cyber security analyst with a background in computer networking. She graduated with honours in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Moshood Abiola Polytechnic Abeokuta. As an undergraduate, she served as a campus lead ambassador for Utiva, an organization that trains undergraduates and graduates on 21st century skills where she led a team of ambassadors to organize training across two schools. Omolara is a technology enthusiast passionate about women representation in the technology industry. She hopes to be a part of an initiative that mentors young girls who are interested in careers in STEM. In a couple of years, she sees herself building a technological solution that will solve one of Nigeria’s major challenges.

Quadri is a researcher, an innovative and self–motivated young man. He has a bachelor degree in Project Management Technology from the Federal University of Technology Akure, where he emerged the best graduating student in the department. He has won several notable awards. Quadri was part of the team for the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Academic Research on ‘Irregular migration, Drug Use and Drug Trafficking: Assessing the Prevalence among Migrant Returnees in Nigeria’. He desires to be an entrepreneur, project manager and a researcher.

Olajide is a UI/UX designer, product developer and techpreneur who is passionate about transforming communities through technology, innovation and social enterprise. He graduated from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso where he bagged a B/Tech. in Pure and Applied Chemistry as one of the best graduating students. Olajide volunteered as a Graphics Designer during the LAUTECH Innovation Challenge (LIC) where his designing skill was utilized in fostering creativity and innovation among the twenty-five thousand students of LAUTECH. He’s also the team Lead of “GradePlus Africa”, an interactive online learning platform that improves students (undergraduates)overall academic performance and their everyday life efficiency and productivity. In a few years, Olajide intends to have impacted 50 million undergraduates in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan African countries by creating and shaping students’ education to personal learning speed and where their holistic development is the goal and not the excessive burden of grades.

Ayinoluwa Kolawole is a media and communications strategist with quantifiable experience in organizational communications, partnerships and brand marketing. She has a double Bachelor’s Degree in Adult Education and Communication and Language Arts at the University of Ibadan, where she also served as the chapter Treasurer, Nigerian Universities Education Students’ Association (NUESA), Faculty of Education. Her undergraduate course of study has largely informed her interests in social sector and community development, corporate communications and marketing. She possesses a professional certification in Project Management In Global Health from the University of Washington, Seattle, Washington. She is currently the Director of Partnerships, TedXApata, where she developed corporate and organisational partnerships with major brands in Nigeria for the organisation’s maiden talk in 2018. Ayinoluwa also serves as the Head of Partnerships for ACE Nigeria; a leading nonprofit promoting environmental sustainability and circular economy in Africa. She is the Media and Publicity Head, She Needs A Pad Project, an initiative of One Voice Initiative For Women and Children Emancipation. Ayinoluwa is profoundly passionate about sustainable development, policy advocacy and effecting societal change via the non-profit space. She works assiduously towards ending rape and sexual violence in Nigeria.

Philip Adebayo is a graphics designer, certified HSE professional (level 3) and a recent mechanical engineering graduate with interest in Heat Ventilation and Air Conditioning and Renewable Energy. He is proficient in the use of MATLAB and FORTRAN for writing programs to solve technical problems. He also has proficiency in the use of Ansys, Comsol Multiphysics, Diesel Rk-Software and HTML and CSS for front web development. He graduated from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Ibadan and throughout his stay at the university; he maintained the first class degree category. He has won some notable awards which include: Award of academic excellence, The Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers, University of Ibadan; 2017 Nigeria Higher Education Foundation Scholars Award; Dean’s Honour Award for first class student; Best graduating student, Bright Star International High School. In the next few years, He sees himself as someone with deep experience in power and energy industry contributing to helping humanity.

Iyanu is a purpose-driven, vision inspired, focused and result oriented young man with a proclivity for excellence. He is a passionate young business and social entrepreneur. He recently graduated from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) where he bagged Bachelor of Technology degree in Computer Science. He is a Google, Facebook and Hubspot certified Digital Marketer. He is currently the Managing partner at Bitcom, a digital agency based in Nigeria that specializes in Software Development, Digital Marketing, Business automation and ICT consultancy. He loves to train, consult and counsel. He consults for schools, SMEs, Politicians and Non-Profit Organizations. Iyanu has trained over 15,000 Nigerian youths in the last 6 years and has spoken and participated in different conferences/workshop both in and outside Nigeria. He has successfully trained and conducted different events with Facebook (FB4C programme), Google (GDSA Programme), SAP (Africa Code Week) and many other tech companies. Iyanu aspires to be a giant business leader running one of the biggest tech conglomerates in Africa in the nearest future.

Al Amin is a Mechanical Engineer who has developed a lot of interest around entrepreneurship, IoT and AI. He got his first degree in Mechanical Engineering from Ahmadu Bello University Zaria. While as an undergraduate he designed, fabricated and tested a chainless bicycle with 3 internal gear hubs to help poor people transport themselves in harsh road conditions and reduce maintenance. He is highly skilled in data science, handling engineering designs, computer hardwares and softwares. He Co-founded and currently CTO at Etechtra, a start-up which is aimed at solving energy problems in remote rural communities by building data driven hybrid mini grids which is remotely monitored, this was recognized as one of the top 100 emerging startups 2018 in Africa. He is Hult Prize West Africa regional winner, participated in the Global accelerator in Ashridge Castle United Kingdom, was a delegate at the World Youth Forum and Africa Forum in Sharm el Sheikh Egypt, Intra African Trade fair in Cairo Egypt representing Nigeria, and an ENACTUS National winner. He sees himself as the missing piece in providing future solutions to the global energy crises.

Victor is a competent Google certified Digital Marketer with strength in Google Analytics, SEO and E-commerce. He graduated with a First Class honors in Mathematics and Computer science from Ebonyi State University Abakaliki. He has burning passion for anything IT related including Web development, AI, Machine and Deep learning, Data Science and Blockchain technology. He has volunteered for lots of organizations and was selected alongside 200 Nigerian youths to participate in The Platform Young Professional bootcamp in 2018 and this has helped sharpen his Leadership and Human relations skills. Currently, his team has organized several Hackathons on the Blockchain technology across universities in Nigeria. He sees himself as a Digital Marketing expert and a well known Techpreneur in years to come.

Jackson Taiwo Queen is a data analyst, she has worked on several data projects including the “VoteronProject” that enabled citizens to access key data, information and analysis on the Nigerian 2015 and 2019 elections. She is also an emerging entrepreneur that launched a bespoke brooch outfit (BroochedNG) aimed at giving people expression through jewelry. She currently volunteers with the Safe and Smart Foundation for Girls that provide sanitary materials to indigent girls in rural communities

John Taiwo has three years of experience in the social enterprise sector, and earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. He is a co-founder of Wegreen Services, a nonbiodegradable waste recycling initiative in its development stage in Ibadan. He is an alumnus of The Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Foundation and the Adansonia Entrepreneurship Network, and a Google certified digital marketer. John currently works as a freelance business developer and digital marketer; he saves thousands of naira in marketing costs for small businesses and has raised over thirty thousand U.S. dollars in grants for several startups including his own. John enjoys focusing on the topics of environmental sustainability and Africapitalism, and has a strong passion for youth empowerment. Ten years from now, he aspires to be in a position where he creates massive social change through his business or any organization he finds himself.

Priscilla Agyemang-Duah graduated from Central University Ghana as the Best Student in Economics, the Best Female Student, and the Overall Best Student in the year 2017. She is an administrator and educator. Deeply concerned by the low levels in which the youth are engaged in Ghana for community development, and the disoriented state of many youth, she aspires to be an african youth education expert. She intends with this to empower the youth in Ghana, majorly through specialized education for nation building. As an emerging Economic Administrator, she also desires to better promote youth empowerement through tailored socio-economic projects. In the year 2016, she participated in the New Business Challenge organized by the Ghana Netherlands and Business Council. During this challenge, she worked with a mixed race team and developed country friendly business solutions, successfully employed by Koudijs Ghana in penetrating the Ghanaian market. With a passion to help develop the Ghanaian society, she volunteers on youth education and community development projects. She is currently volunteering as a community agent for Recycle It Ghana, a waste collection service provider, with the goal of fighting plastic waste pollution and promoting environmental sustainability. Priscilla readily ceases opportunities under human capital developement, in order to enable her stay relevant in the ever-changing african and global society.

Ernestina Brenya is a Social Entrepreneur and a MasterCard Foundation scholar at the University of Education, Winneba, where she hopes to obtain a BSc. in Accounting Education. She is the founder and Executive Director of Student Empowerment Foundation (SEF); a foundation which seeks to address the problem of the Sustainable Development Goals four and eight by providing mentorship to basic school pupils to uncover their potentials for a better future while also equipping them with basic entrepreneurial skills. Through this, she has impacted over 500 school pupils across Ghana. She also volunteered as a Project Assistant at Bentil Foundation, where she led in the implementation of projects in rural communities in Northern Ghana. As a Campaign for Female Education (CAMFED) ambassador alumna, she had the opportunity to participate in the 10th anniversary celebration of CAMFED Tanzania where she networked with over 50 young female leaders across Africa. Also, as the chairperson of the MasterCard Foundation Scholars at her university, she was chosen to represent the scholars in the 2018 Baobab Summit in Kigali, Rwanda. Ernestina loves to learn, lead and impact lives and she believes that ethical leadership is the best way to achieve the AU Agenda 2063 (The Africa we want to see).

Eric Vondee is an entrepreneur, broadcast journalist, actor, radio presenter and founder of My Home Teacher – a business organization that connects parents to well-qualified teachers to tutor their wards at home in any subject. Having been named as part of Coca-Cola Top 60 Young Achievers in Ghana, Eric volunteers his time in mentoring young people in actualizing their dreams and purpose. At age 18, Eric made a resolution not to depend on his parents for school fees or pocket money. He felt that once you can vote at age 18, you should be able to take certain responsibilities. Right from that age, he assumed responsibility for his financial needs. In March 2015, Eric was named one of Top 30 Young Ghanaian Achievers by Newaccra Magazine. At age 21, he was recognized as one of the 100 Student Entrepreneurs in Ghana. In April 2016, he received a special recognition at the TEDxAccra event by one of the notable speakers about his achievement. In March 2017, he was featured in a book that highlights the inspiring stories of 60 Change makers in Ghana. In 2019, he was named as part of 50 Outstanding Young Ghanaians. Eric was named as “The Rising Star of Ghana” by an Indian Magazine, IUeMAG.

Gilbert Reinall Addo is an emerging Human Resources expert, a social entrepreneur and a youth development and tech advocate. He’s an enthusiastic facilitator of the UN SDGs and a member of the United Nations Major Group for Children & Youth. Born in Ghana, he was educated in his home country and Cote d’Ivoire during his young age. He studied for a first degree in Human Resources Management from the Perez University, Ghana. He obtained a mini-MBA in Project Management from Accra Business School and a Certificate in Project Management Master Class from the Institute of Project Management Professionals, Ghana. He performed his first research in data mining, data integrity and modeling while at the IPMC College of Technology in 2013. Mr. Addo served as the Zonal Secretary of the Ghana Hotels Association for 3 years and got appointed as an Ambassador for Motivating Africa, Nigeria since 2017 and supported a group for a research for a vulnerability analysis of the teenage pregnancy for an initiative in Sudan. His organization (IMDID) currently has 10 teams in different countries including Ghana, and 5 other representatives. As a social enterprise and a youth volunteering organization, IMDID focuses on providing innovative educational opportunities to the youth for better understanding in their role in issues of global and domestic civil society and to encourage awareness, tolerance and acceptance of the world’s people, cultures, beliefs, attitudes and values by creating projects and mechanism for the diplomatic upbringing of the youth. In 2017 he received an honorary certificate from the Young Diplomats of Ghana. He was also awarded by the Leadership Mind Ambassadors, Nigeria as the Best Male Advocating Leader of the year 2017 as well as the Best Male Outstanding Community Leader in Africa for the same year. Gilbert Reinall Addo aspires to work with the United Nations, and has interest and commitment to managing people with innovations for self-development and excellence.

Sinare is an emerging social advocate who is passionate about challenging inequality. He holds a Bachelor of Arts (B.A) degree in Social and Development Administration from the University for Development Studies. Currently, he is a service personnel at the Department of Social Welfare in the northern region of Ghana and also the Vice President of Imagine You Can (IYC), an NGO that’s into empowering young ones and giving them the capabilities to achieve their goals and targets. He also does project coordination for Step-up-Gh, an NGO based in the northern region of Ghana, that mentors and guides senior high school students. His passion for leadership has provided him with a lot of leadership opportunities where he marshaled a lot of experience. He served as the SRC secretary in BAWKU Senior High School, Faculty Representative for his Faculty and currently serving as the Chief Justice of the National Union of Ghana Students.

Elizabeth Aryee is a focused and ambitious young lady who graduated from University of Ghana with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Adult Education and Political Science. She is passionate about solving societal problems. Currently, Elizabeth works at Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority. She hopes to use this platform to empower youths to achieve their goals in life. Volunteering is her hobby and she volunteered for an NGO in supplying educational materials for a community school. In five years time, she hopes to work with the United Nations as a diplomat. She is greatly inspired by this quote from Oprah Winfrey, ”the big secret in life is that there is no big secret. Whatever your goal, you can get there if you are willing to work.”

Mark is young self-motivated and curious research scientist. He recently graduated from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana, with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biochemistry. His research interest is in the field of Molecular Biology, Plant Medicine, Epidemiology and Product formulation. He has a scientific publication on the “Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Activities of Marantochloa leucantha – A Preliminary Study”. During his period in the university, he was the chairperson of TRATECH (Trade and Technology), a committee in the Biochemistry Department aimed at formulating products and bringing out innovations for the Department during exhibitions and fairs. He also participated as a health screener and health educator on Hepatitis ‘B’ and ‘C’, sickle cell disease, malaria and some other diseases during the SCI-TECH (Science and Technology) fair by the Ghana Science Students Association, KNUST in 2017. In the near future, Mark hopes to work in a science research institution to find cure and solutions to prevalent infectious diseases in the rural communities of Ghana.

Justina Boadi is a graduate of the University of Ghana where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Psychology and Information Studies. She is a research fellow with over three years of experience as a field interviewer, and has interviewed over 400 participants in the various consumer research study in Ghana with top-notch research organisations such as Ac Nielson, Positive Insight, fact Ghana etc. She is currently self-employed in retail and online marketing. Justina has an excellent customer service delivery, leadership and excellent marketing skills. She is transcriptionist, who has worked as a Secretary at a law firm, Joe Attipoe and Associates. As a research fellow, she is very passionate about research studies, innovative ideas and technology advancement in solving societal problems.

Vasco Ayere Avoka is a Public Health Officer with experience in youth empowerment, voluntarism and community service. Currently, he works at the Office of the Head of Civil Service in the capacity of a Fellow of the Emerging Public Leaders Fellowship of Ghana. Since 2017, he has been a mentor and volunteer with the West Africa Center for Peace Foundation, Ghana, where he mentors an average of fifteen young people during the annual Peacejam Youth Leadership Conference with the Nobel Peace Laureates. Vasco holds a Bachelor of Public Health degree from the University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho – Ghana. He also holds certificates in Implementation Research and Bioethics. Vasco leads and inspires positive change in the public and civil services of Ghana and by extension, Africa. He is also an alumnus of the Young African Leaders Initiatives, YALI. He served as the Vice President for the Togolese Republic during the 3rd edition of the Model ECOWAS Summit, MES in 2018 and shall serve as the substantive President of the Togolese Republic for the 4th edition of MES 2020, Abuja-Nigeria. Vasco has keen interest in youth and women empowerment, equality and inclusion, disruptive technology and leadership, as well as innovation and co-creation. He is committed to empowering the next generation to be tech-enthusiasts who are leading change and providing solutions to real world problems.

Thelma holds a Bachelor of Science degree in a multidisciplinary course of study in Biological Sciences from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi. She is an emerging researcher and upcoming social entrepreneur who is passionate about educating and helping the young discover, maximize and fulfill their purposes. She embraced her passion for education by becoming a volunteer for Scripture Union and Child Evangelism Fellowship, both organizations nurture the young to grow into responsible and relevant adults in the society. She is also a member of the research team of GhstudentsWallet, a platform that promotes student entrepreneurship through the provision of relevant education and also allows students advertise their products and skills. She aims to be a positive influence and a change maker while seeking opportunities to learn, grow and contribute to society.

Desmond is a special educator and a professional teacher who teaches students who are deaf and a sign language interpreter as well. He is a graduate of Special Education from the University of Education, Winneba. He is the founder of Magical Hands Crew, a social platform focused on inclusion of Individuals living with disability and a help center for those who are willing to learn Sign Language. He has worked with many individuals living with disability across Ghana and strives to achieve inclusion in society at the world level.

Abdul-Rahaman is a globally focused graduate with strong awareness of IT systems. He is an analytical and research expert, with strong academic results who is Keen to develop a career in Web Development and App Development. He holds an HND in Information and Communication Technology from the Tamale Technical University. Abdul-Rahaman volunteers as the District Coordinator for the United Nation Youth Ghana where he works closely with other volunteers to push the United Nations resolution. He is a quiet achiever; calm and focused, highly motivated and enthusiastic graduate with a good knowledge of IT systems and social media. Able to use own initiative and work as part of a team under pressure to meet deadlines and objectives. He has excellent communication and organizational skills, a strong work ethic and determination to succeed. As an enthusiastic learner, he is always eager to meet new challengers and get ahead in the IT industry.

Rukmini is a vibrant, determined and passionate young lady who aspires to impact society positively, especially on the subject of women empowerment and gender equity. She graduated from the University of Ghana with a Bachelor of Arts (B.A) degree in Information Studies and Sociology and currently works at the Archives section of the University of Ghana. She is the founder of Honouring womanhood Movement, a women empowerment NGO that seeks to help women unearth their leadership potentials so as to be able to take up leadership roles in the society and the workplace.

Abdul-Raheem Ibrahim Tuzee is a passionate Environmental and Natural Resource Scientist and a prolific writer with the pen name, “I have the pen, you have your say”. He graduated from the Faculty of Natural Resources and Environmental Management of the University for Development Studies (UDS) in 2018. As a Youth and Environmental Activist, He Co-Founded a youth group called the Rescue Mission International (RMI) which is poised to dealing with daily social and environmental issues. On his account of being a Pan-Africanist, he volunteers as a Newsletter and Social Media writer/activist with the Youth Alliance for Leadership and Development in Africa (YALDAfrica). Tuzee is proficient in research and has interests in sanitation, water management and renewable energy management. He is certified in Conflict Management and Resolution by the African Conflict Resolution Initiative (ACRI). Currently, he serves as the National Public Relations Coordinator of the Network of African Advocates for Peace, Ghana Chapter. Tuzee hopes to pursue his Master’s Degree and a PhD in Environmental Engineering and International Business, to enable him play an active role in innovating and bridging water, sanitation and renewable energy gaps while fostering sustainable development in Africa and beyond. Tuzee, being a service leader through experience and studying of online leadership courses, dreams to be one of the best, if not the best Secretary Generals the United Nations (UN) will ever have. He believes that making a positive difference to impact change begins with him.

With a strong desire to be a young change leader, Benjamin has gained diverse hard skills and professional competences. He holds a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Degree in Planning from the University for Development Studies where he graduated as part of the top students in his Department. He has certificates in Data Analysis, Graphics Design, Project Management and GIS. As part of giving his wealth of knowledge and experience back to society, Benjamin volunteers for several NGOs across Ghana and has undertaken internships too. His diverse expertise range from Project Development, Project Implementation and Management to Project Monitoring and Evaluation. He has a keen interest in research into Alternative Education with a focus on Ecology and Nature Conservation, Circular Economy and Solid Waste Management. He is currently Coordinating a Project for Green Africa Youth Organization on Circularities in Waste Management, a Zero Waste Approach.

Mohammed Kamaldeen is graduate of the University of Ghana with specialization in Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System. He is a research assistant in the Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System Laboratory (RSGIS Lab), University of Ghana. He is also a researcher with Restless Development and MasterCard Foundation and the Co-founder of Development Research and Solutions. He has experience and passion for Geographic Information Systems, Remote Sensing, Research and Cartography. He is currently responsible for the acquisition, processing and analysis of satellite images on the project “Sustainability Transformations in Artisanal and Small-scale Gold Mining: A Multi-Actor and Trans-Regional Perspective” A multi-continental project funded by a consortium of bodies including UK (ESRC), Brazil (FAPESP), Netherlands (NWO), Sweden (VR). He is proficient in the use of ArcGIS, ENVI, QGIS, ArcGIS Pro, Google Earth Pro, SPSS and Open-Street Mapping. Self-discipline and team work are the forefronts of all his endeavors.

Adjoa Amponfi is a graduate from University of Education, Winneba, with a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Chemistry Education. Currently, she is a Teaching Assistant at the Department of Chemistry Education at the Faculty of Science Education in the same University. She was awarded the MasterCard foundation scholarship at Campaign for Female Education, Ghana (CAMFED Ghana) because of her academic prowess. She is the founder of Inspire Before You Expire Global foundation, a non-governmental organization that mentors rural youths through life and helps reduce unemployment by its entrepreneurship projects. Through her work, she has been given a certificate of recognition from the Young African Leadership Initiative’s Mandela day of service program amongst other prestigious nominations. She has been a delegate for Seychelles Island and Cyprus at the Global Youth Diplomacy Conference and International Youth Diplomacy Conference respectively. She is also a product of the Youth Impact Workshop and holds a certificate from Google for the Google for digital skills Africa, where she learned Digital Marketing. She has represented CAMFED Ghana with other selected Ghanaians at the MasterCard foundation scholars Baobab summit in South Africa. Her vision is to become a role model for young and upcoming girls; for them to aspire to go higher in education and take up leadership positions. She also envisions the creation of an educational system in Ghana where students get balanced learning in which they are holistically, an educational system where the importance of STEM is not undermined and innovations developed towards making it available and easy to learn for all students, irrespective of background.

Kannde is an emerging medical researcher, a social innovator, writer and an entrepreneur. He graduated from the University for Development Studies with a professional doctorate degree in laboratory medicine. Kannde has 3 years working experience as a medical laboratory scientist working for two years at Tamale Teaching Hospital then starting his own organization Starna Laboratories, a project that focuses on providing medical laboratory services to health workers in rural Ghana with focus on maternity health. He believes healthcare equality can only start when we treat healthcare delivery as a holistic approach either in the urban or rural area and he is currently the lead medical scientist for this organization. He had entrepreneurship training with Adansonia at Bocconi University, Milan, Italy and digital marketing skills training with Accenture and Virgin Startup program. In 2016, Kannde was among the second cohort of the YALI Regional West Africa Leadership Center, Accra where he undertook training in entrepreneurship track. In 2018 he was among the top three winners of the flagship Ghana Youth Social Entrepreneurship Program in 2018. As an advocate for evidence based medical practice he hopes to use his organization as a bases for a nationwide advocacy.

Musah Mohammed Hafiz is a recent graduate from the University of Cape Coast with a degree in Education Social Sciences (Economics & Geography). Hafiz is a youth development activist and an SDGs advocate, always looking for avenues and opportunities to meet new people, learn new things and contribute to social and national development. As part of his training and experience (Internship), He worked with Databank Finacial Services Limited in 2018 – Tamale Branch – as an Executive Sale Representative, taught Economics at Bawku Senior High Technical School – 2018, worked at National Investment Bank Limited in 2017 – Yendi Branch – as a Customer Service Personnel. He has done some Research Work (Data Entry Assistant) for SEND Ghana Tamale Office – 2019. Hafiz is a member of the Northern Youth Parliament, an advocate with Savannah Signatures for Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) Alliance, a volunteer with the Northern Regional Youth Network, and an SDGs ambassador against irregular migration with International Organization for Migration (UN IOM) and Youth Advocates Ghana (YAG). While in school, he was a member of the Parliamentary Council as well as Students’ Representative Council’s Publicity & Welfare Committees. He is an executive and a peer mentor of Empowered Youth Foundation. Also, he was a Fellow of the Inaugural Cohort under the Youth Leadership for Social Change (#YL4SC) Project run by Youth Empowerment Synergy (YESGhana) and funded by Ford Foundation, and executed 5 community projects in the Efutu District to help community members.

Elorm Dzifa Oklu is an alumna of the University of Ghana, Legon where she studied Spanish and Political Science. Her main purpose and focus in life is geared towards the development of the younger generation; for this, Elorm wants to be a teacher. Her ultimate dream is to set up a platform to support and motivate young people in becoming the best versions of themselves. This came as an inspiration following her one-year study in Spain where she took up teaching jobs helping young Spanish kids to speak English.

Adu Poku Emmanuel is young man who seeks to explore new avenues and passionate about driving development in his society. He sees community Service and humanitarianism as an index of personal development. Emmanuel graduated from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) where he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Biotechnology. He worked as a Laboratory Scientist with Kumasi South Government Hospital. His heart of service crowned him as the President of the Association of Agricultural Biotechnology whilst in the University. He was also a member of KNUST Peer counselors and adjudged the most dedicated Peer counselor of his time. His love for community service has seen him with many NGO’s in the promotion of Agriculture, Education and Health especially in rural areas of Ghana. Emmanuel recently submitted an article, ‘Hatcheries hatching chicks contribute to poor development of day-old chicks based on biological and immunological assessment’ as a co-author, which will be published by World Veterinary. He acknowledges Agriculture as Life and an instrument for poverty reduction. Emmanuel hopes to be one of Ghana’s renowned Research Scientists. In his opinion, many of the SDG’s can be attained with innovations in Agriculture. He believes all things should start with Love and posterity in mind.