2022

2022 Y.I.L Fellows

Nigeria’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 from 31 disciplines and from 15 States of Nigeria.

Godwin Kugblenu is an Emerging Public Leaders Fellow working with the Ministry of Finance in Ghana. He studied Land Economy and graduated with First Class Honours. Godwin is a sustainability enthusiast and a Programmes Manager at PropIntel LLC, where he oversees the Ghana Sustainability Leadership Academy, which aims to train 1,000 young graduates in developing and building sustainable skills and businesses. He volunteered as an organizer for the Ada Students Union, where he was responsible for organizing rural education and health outreach programs for 1500 students. Godwin served in several leadership positions, including Deputy Judicial Council Chairman of the Faculty of Built Environment Students Society. Godwin has the goal of becoming an advisor to African governments on financial innovation in the face of transitioning to a green economy and leading climate talks and negotiations on behalf of African governments.

Tagbor Simon Gabriel is a young Business School graduate from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. In 2021, Simon finished at the top of his class with First class honors in Logistics and Supply Chain Management. He is currently working at World Trade Center Accra where he spends his time collaborating with his team across key projects. Simon has a deep interest in technology and design. He is skilled in web development and UX Design. Simon is keen on using his tech skills and his passion for design to create a startup to solve problems he is passionate about.

Atta Odoom is a passionate Agribusiness enthusiast, an entrepreneur, and an emerging project manager. He holds a degree in BSc Agribusiness Management from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi. He is currently pursuing an associate degree in Project Management from Kenner University, USA. He is the founder of Artifacts, an extensive African art collection unit established to sell and portray indigenous artifacts to the world. His commitment to the UN SDGs has seen him volunteer and embark on outreaches to sensitize deprived communities, especially in Northern Ghana where he is based. His passion for a sustainable agriculture revolution has seen him participate and enroll in the Global Thought for Food challenges, Agripreneurship summits, Ki-Hub incubation program, the Young African works, and Crossroads Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies. Atta Odoom wants to introduce cutting-edge solutions to solve Africa’s prevalent Agriculture issues with the help of his business, KingFarms. He envisages an environmentally friendly, business-oriented approach, and society-focused Agriculture production through his innovation.

Elizabeth Adwoa Dwamena-Asare is an environmentalist and a published author. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Human Resources Management from All Nations University. Her novel, ‘The New Normal,’ was shortlisted for the Economic Commission for Africa’s (ECA) 2020 Anthology of Short Stories. As an ENACTUS alumnus, Elizabeth served as an Opening Round Judge for the ENACTUS National Level Competition in 2021. She won the Best Author/Writer of the year at the 2022 Central Entertainment and Business Awards. Through the World Literacy Foundation, she embarked on a practical reading initiative as a former World Literacy Ambassador for Ghana, where she inspired over 700 youths to read regularly. Elizabeth is interested in promoting literacy among youths to enable them to build their vocabulary, unearth their purposes and apply their skills effectively.

Otoo-Quansah Sarah is a young Business Administration graduate of the University of Education, Winneba where she served as the SRC Treasurer in the 2019/2020 academic year and also a past queen of Face Of South, UEW Campus. She has held a lot of leadership positions such as CAMFED Mfantseman District Vice-Chairperson, Anomabo Cluster Chairperson, and also a founder of EDSA-GYE NYAME FOUNDATION where she impacts lives positively with the aim of making the World a better place.

Deborah Koryoe Osei is a young, disciplined graduate of the Koforidua Technical University, where she placed first among all students who graduated from the Secretaryship and Management Studies School in 2017 with distinction in her academics. She is someone who is willing to go above and beyond what is necessary to ensure that her employer constantly stays one step ahead of its competitors. She is imaginative, creative, adaptive to change, quick to pick things up, and willing to take risks. She is able to quickly identify employees’ talent and potential so as to provide adequate training to help workers develop their skills. She one day hopes to be the Human Resource Director in her Department, planning and developing new recruitment strategies, supervising employee benefits, and more. She loves playing indoor activities and watching cartoons.

Darkwa Sandra is a graduate of the KNUST(GHANA) with a degree in Culture and Tourism with Distinction and numerous academic and leadership awards. She works in a prestigious private hospital in Ghana (Nyaho Medical Centre) as a Customer Experience Executive. She is a YALI fellow (Cohort 39), A YALI Accessor and Volunteer, and A fellow of the Ghana Internet School of Governance. A member of ISOC(Ghana Chapter), A member of EGIGFA (E-Governance and Internet Governance Foundation for Africa), A Savvy Fellow, a McKinsey Fellow, Maternal Health Advocate. Sandra is passionate about maternal and child health leading her to co-found The SaveMama Foundation, an NGO that provides free online antenatal lessons for over 200 pregnant women. She wants to be a Health Advocate using cutting-edge tools, skills, and technologies to solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges, particularly in maternal and child mortality. She enjoys reading, enjoying the beauty of nature, and loves to watch reality shows as well.

Uthman Khadija is a final year student of the University for Development Studies, studying Bachelor of Arts Integrated Business Studies, Accounting Major in Ghana. She has passion and interest in working in an innovative and inclusive environment that impacts the lives and livelihoods of others. Over the course of my studies and career, I have been proud to achieve a few milestones. In 2019, I secured a scholarship from Education pathways International due to my persistence in achieving high academic performance. In 2017, I emerged fourth in the SDG youth essay competition. I am currently a proud YIL fellow.

Jacqueline Baidoo is a young agribusiness researcher. Her research interest is in profitability studies. She has done research in the agriculture, floriculture, and forestry industries. She has been a tutor at the Kumasi Institute of Tropical Agriculture and is currently a Ph.D. student at the University of Ghana.

Felix Yeboah Agyemang is passionate about how to use data to inform decisions, STEM education for less privileged children, social justice, women empowerment, career development, and financial literacy. He seeks opportunities that combine the worlds of computational, logical, and strategic thinking in the realm of career, finance, and lifestyle. He is a graduate of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology with a BSc. Development Planning. As a goal-oriented person, he didn’t allow his academic background to be limited. He took himself and studied in other fields which match his career goals and this is not the end.

Mohammed Abubakari Sadik holds a Diploma in Social Change Communication and is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in the same course at the University for Development Studies-NYANKPALA campus. His motivation and desire to contribute to making society a better place for all have driven him to serve as a volunteer for the past six months in the capacity of a Community Liaison Officer for Northern Girls Initiative (NGI). Mr. Abubakari Sadik is a selfless leader and a great team player who is very enthusiastic about community service. He has an impressive track record in the field of social activism and is a very robust experience in planning, event coordination, and youth mobilization. He is currently the convener for the Tolon District Youth Network, a position he assumed in 2018, and a peace ambassador for the Foundation for Security and Development in Africa (FOSDA). He was also made the speaker for the Tolon Youth Parliament and president of the Tolon Youth Centre due to his urgency in response to youth matters. As a volunteer with NGI, he is very instrumental in implementing all activities of the organization in Tolon District. He was part of the team that developed the 2022 strategic plan and annual budget for the organization. He is considered one of the greatest team members. He dreams to become a philanthropist in society to make life a better place for the deprived and marginalized.

Ibrahim Khalilulahi Usman is an award-winning young journalist who focuses on stories that impact the masses. He is the creator of Ghanaian Streets, a new media company highlighting the contributions of young people and entrepreneurs in Ghana while also documenting the daily challenges of Ghanaians. By volunteering for numerous mentorship programs and youth activities, he uses his expertise to make a difference in young people. Due to his abilities and thorough knowledge of several subjects, Khalilulahi’s effect is multifarious. He is the founder of Students Opportunity Hub, a platform that connects students with opportunities and provides them with counseling support. Through his Think Thank Africa Centre for Global Citizenship and Education Research, he has actively involved more than 1000 students since 2016 in SDGs, leadership, media, GCED, volunteering, and globalization. His drive for knowledge and character has made him outstanding. He is devoting the upcoming year to working on his initiatives and volunteering to teach in a local school.

Adjei Francis is a young Industrial Chemist graduate, researcher, and innovator from the University of Cape Coast, Ghana. He is a 2021 Stanford Design Challenge and African German Entrepreneurship Competitions finalist and received the 2021 Stanford Design Challenge prototype Award. He has made it into various seedbed programs including the EIT Seedbed program by the European Union. He is currently the Quality Control Manager of Dorothy Kani Company Limited, Ghana, a food processing company. He has 5 scientific publications to his name in Elsevier, Taylor, and Francis, and Journal of Oleo Science journal outlets. He has also served as a reviewer for journals in Wiley, and Taylor and Francis journal outlets. Francis is also the co-founder of Didi-Aston Enterprise, a company that deals with the research and development of products made from locally available materials. Francis loves to inspire young and upcoming scientists. He aims at becoming a Professor in his area of study and also an astute businessman who will build companies through research and development. He enjoys spending time with family and friends. He loves to watch/play football, basketball, and volleyball.

Arthur Joyce is a teaching and research assistant, an emerging social innovator, and a Beacon of Excellence. She holds a first-class degree in accounting from the University of Cape Coast and is currently a student at the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana. She was a learner guide and a transitional facilitator at CAMFED Ghana. She is a 2020 vice-chairperson of the Camfed Association Members for her cluster where she led in the planning and implementation of social impact projects. Joyce has undergone so many leadership, fellowships, and training such as the Central Leadership Program, Change Makers Congress, etc. She is passionate about SDGs (1, 4,9,13). She hopes to see a world where children from rural communities strive to actualize their dreams and aspirations against all odds. This passion led her to establish the JARAB Foundation. She aspires to be a development engineer to lead, initiate and manage innovation to contribute to solving African problems.

Abdul Kudus is an Emerging Public Leaders Cohort 4 Fellow at the Ministry of Finance, Ghana. He graduated from the University for Development Studies with First Class Honors in BSc Land Management in the year 2021. In his year group, he emerged as the Overall Best Student in the Department of Real Estate and Land Management. He also emerged as the Overall Best Student in the Faculty of Planning and Land Management and a recipient of the Dean’s Award for Best Graduating Male Student in the Faculty of Planning and Land Management. He is also the 2022 recipient of the Prestigious Surveyor Prof. John Tiah Bugri Award for Academic Excellence, awarded by the Ghana Institution of Surveyors, and received the 2022 YIL Scholar Award. Abdul Kudus aspires to further his career in Land Administration, particularly in the policy formulation space, to create endless opportunities to aid humanity to sustainably tap into the infinite pool of resources that land has to offer.

Dekpe Christiana is a marketing graduate from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana. Beyond her interest in child advocacy, she is passionate about creating an enabling environment for child and youth development in rural communities leading her to introduce innovative solutions to sanitation and education challenges in her community. She wants to become a developmental entrepreneur using improved methods to impart to rural communities holistic transformation. She loves nature and enjoys singing.

Abdul-Rahman Mohammed is an educated and experienced youth who has a strong background in System Analysis, Research, and Green Computing. He is keen on researching and exploring new ideas and approaches to solve problems more effectively and efficiently. He holds a Higher National Diploma in Computer Science from Sunyani Technical University and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Technology in Computer science at the same University. Mohammed is the Community, Communication, and Technology Director of Suncity Hub in Sunyani, Bono Region of Ghana. He believes in hard work to achieve excellence and progressively continues to help establish systems to help people and humanity in their everyday lives. He is also an emerging exciting entrepreneur with the primary objective of providing solid sincerity of putting smiles on the faces of society. He has a track record of creating and coordinating businesses and social impact programs. His most recent program is the NEIP-YEA soft skills training program, where he actively helps run and coordinates the training of 300 youth employment agency applicants in TVET skills along with entrepreneurship training. Mohammed is a passionate Adventurous and social voluntarist and he loves exploring communities and villages to experience the lives of people and their living situations. He desires to improve the living conditions of Africans in rural areas. He believes strongly in youth empowerment.

Gertrude Akosah is a beneficiary of the Mastercard Foundation scholarship, a daytime engineer, and a writer by night. She pursued a bachelor’s degree in Geological Engineering at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. Currently, she works at the Ministry of Roads and Highways as a National Service Person under the Emerging Public Leaders Ghana. Her knowledge and personal work experiences allow her to assist and deliver quality outputs on projects that support Ghana’s infrastructural needs. As a daily learner, she has undertaken several certificates and short courses such as Urban Drainage Master Planning, Google Data Analytics, and Artificial Intelligence (Machine Learning) amongst others. Driven by her zeal and passion for women’s empowerment, she became the President of Women in Engineering (WinE) in 2019/20. She doubled as the Women’s Commissioner for the Ghana Engineering Students’ Association (GESA) at KNUST. During this period, Gertrude created the WinE Representative Group and organized the Maiden Edition of the Face of GESA. Both projects provided hands-on leadership training and built women’s confidence to claim responsibility in a male-dominated field. As a member of the ENACTUS club, she was a part of the Recoplast project, which sought to recycle plastics by mixing them with cement. In her community, she started the Girl-child Survival Movement, a project which leverages young women with applicable skills such as beading. To advance her career, Gertrude undertook internship opportunities with the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), Ines Ruhengeri Soil Laboratory in Musanze, Rwanda under the African-German Entrepreneurship Academy (AGEA) and a borehole drilling exercise at the Geological Engineering Department at KNUST. She is the Project Supervisor for the Network of Entrepreneurship and Young Leaders Foundation (NEYL), which focuses on bringing out innovative and creative potential among the youth. Gertrude Akosah aspires to be a part of the people who make the world a better place, both as a female engineer and a writer.

Abdelkerim Saleh Abdelkerim is a young graduate of General Business Administration at HEC-TCHAD University. He is an emerging leader of the United Nations Association for Chad, a volunteer of the NGO ACIEDD, and a series A4 bachelor in 2016. Beyond his keen interests in Business Administration, Abdelkerim is passionate about the expansion of opportunities for less privileged students to have access to a transformational and civil society-leading education, which led him to engage as a volunteer in various civil society associations among which the association of the United Nations for Chad an association that offers professional orientation and supports the Sustainable Development Goals in Chad. He wants to be an administrator and innovator using cutting-edge tools, skills, and technologies to solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges, particularly in Administration and Sustainable Development. He loves to hike and enjoy the beauty of nature and loves to read.

Parfait Jean de la Croix is an SMS Marketer at Burkina24 and a YALI Accra Alumni. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Bilingual Executive Assistantship and is currently enrolled in a Masters’s of Marketing and Commercial communication. As an aspiring entrepreneur, he is a member of the Association of YALI Alumni Chapter of Burkina Faso. He currently takes part in the activities and meetings of the alumni association. In November 2020, he successfully organized a community service in a medical center called Ouaga Clean Up, gathering people around for a clean-up day in Ouagadougou. In March 2022, he successfully participated in a leadership-certified training program with Aspire Institute Program. In addition, He organized national volunteerism from March 2021 to June 2021. He aspires to implement a social enterprise that will positively impact society and solve societal issues.

BIKIE EMINI Joel Landry is a young Power System Engineering graduate of the University of Buea where he finished among the top 2% of the 2021 batch. He was selected in 2021 to take part in the Bio-Innovate Bootcamp in Nairobi Kenya and is a laureate at the “2021 Challenge Physique expérimentale Afrique” a competition organized by the “Association pour la Promotion Scientifique de Afrique”. He is a young rising Cameroonian entrepreneur taking part in the Youth Entrepreneurship Symposium and also a Fellow of the competitive “Project d’Excellence en Production d’Innovation Technologique en Agro-Industrie de L’université de Ngaoundéré: PEPITA-UN”. He works actively to provide sustainable solutions to vulnerable communities with his partners but beyond his keen interest in Innovation and Sustainable Development, Bikie is passionate about renewable energy and international and development studies where his vision is to link Innovation and Technology as a backbone for a better Governance in Africa. He loves to watch/play football.

Monju Grace Mbum is an administrative assistant in Trinity Bilingual School, Douala Cameroon, and a 2nd-year master’s student in Banking and Finance at the University of Bamenda. She is a holder of a BBA in management and entrepreneurship and a BSc in management obtained from the University of Bamenda. She is a 2021 YALI(RLC) an emerging leader in Business and Entrepreneurship and a fellow in the SME growth lab acceleration program. Beyond her active interest and participation in community development projects, Grace is passionate about expanding growth opportunities to small businesses and empowering youths with dynamism for career development which is why Grace is at the edge of creating the MGM-tech Business Consultancy. She wants to be an advanced leader in business administration and an entrepreneurial innovator using advanced tools, skills, and technology to solve advanced projects that seek to provide for the needs of the community thereby contributing to community development.

Acho Sandra N. is a Geography and Planning graduate of the University of Bamenda. She is equally a Web-Mastering graduate of the Don Bosco Professional Institute, Yaounde, 2021. She is a finalist in the 2021 ECRANS Noir 10-day for Film Competition. She is a freelance web designer, Content Creator/Editor, Environmental Researcher, Poet, and Script Writer. This has led her to start up AS-SmartInk Arena (ASSA), a digital service that seeks to ensure quality information and content – clearly written- to make it into print or to online websites. Beyond her keen interest in IT and Environmental Research, Sandra is passionate about expanding opportunities for less privileged youth to get access to transformational IT education. She is working on a project to train children and less privileged youth, especially girls to gain digital transformation skills. Sandra pictures a society where the less privileged have access to and are empowered with high-income digital skills. She is passionate about reading, writing, football, and singing.

Jarvis kou Ndong is a 29years old young dynamic Cameroonian with a passion to serve his community and the world at large. He is currently the training and communication officer for the Duke of Edinburgh’s international award Cameroon, a certified youth envoy for peace and democracy by the network for solidarity Empowerment and transformation for All (NewSETA) and National Endowment for Democracy (NED) in the US, he is a project manager for gender, culture, and Peacebuilding for the Cameroon Youth Network, Founder and coordinator of Youth Impact and Peace Advocacy center (YIPAC). He is vision oriented, working towards harnessing untapped leadership qualities in the young and equipping young people for life. Jarvis is an electrical engineer from the University of Siantou however, his passion for leadership, has bent him to change the common narrative amongst the youth of ‘what has the government done for us?’ and rather build to become job creators. He is a changemaker and has held multiple leadership positions in his journey as a youth leader such as; president of YCS Obili( young Christian students), YCS communicator for the Yaoundé sector,center regional counselor for Cameroon youths network (Réseau des jeunes du Cameroun RJC ), volunteer unit leader for the Duke of Edinburgh’s international award Cameroon

Emmanuella Amihere is a purpose-driven intellect and a graduate of the University of Ghana who majored in Education with a specialization in Chemistry. She devotes an aspect of her life to aiding youth and her colleagues in coming up with ideas to defeat problems around them. She also works as a social media manager for some businesses like Namax Beauty Salon and Kepties Afric. She has worked with Action Progressive Institute, a senior high technical school as a teacher as well as an intern for the Ghana Revenue Authority. Emmanuella is an amicable person and seeks to establish an institute that will aid the younger generations to identify their potential and massively use it to its maximum height.

Magaji Yakubu Yuguda is a young Lecturer, Biochemist who graduated from Gombe State University in 2018 and currently doing his M.Sc. in Biotechnology at Bayero University, Kano. He is a Member Nigeria Society of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry (NSBMB) and a Member Nigeria Bioinformatics and Genomic Network (NBGN). Apart from his research and publications, he is also deeply involved in tackling food scarcity, creating job opportunities through research, innovations, and Agricultural practices, Continuing medical education, Basic Life Support (BLS) provider, Adult, and Paediatric Life Support Provider, AED, CPR, First Aid Provider, Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Provider, and Mental Health Awareness. He wants to be a Novel Prize winner as a result of his innovations that will solve most of the diseases and conditions that affect our society and the world at large. He enjoys giving to charity, helping people to progress, reading, and traveling.

Oladipupo Edward Opeyemi is a recent graduate of Agricultural Economics at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, and is currently self-learning the skill of Data Science to help businesses make productive business decisions with data-driven models to increase profit in a sustainable and replicable manner. As a social innovator, he has in the past worked on personal projects like “Biogas as an economic cooking fuel”, “Microbial fuel cell”, “Geopolymer cement”, and “Plastic recycling into construction interlocking tiles and blocks”, and currently working with his team on a “Green hydrogen production and energy generator” project, all these efforts to provide affordable, environmentally friendly and sustainable solutions to meet the unmet basic needs of underserved citizens in marginalized communities. He hopes one day he will be able to make a significant impact in Nigeria and across the African continent.

Eniola Oni is a multipotentialite in Leadership and Administration, Social Impact and Advocacy, Mentorship, Oration, and Marketing (Communications, Performance & Growth). She is the winner of Future Brand Idol’20, earning a scholarship to study in the best brands communications school in West Africa, and graduating as the best strategist. An alumnus of the MCN/UNAI where she was Campus Director, she advocates SDG 4 & 5. Out of the desire to help African females see the need to break out of societal stereotypes, develop the right mindsets, and add value to themselves, she founded Dear-Lady-360°. She also works as a Communications Manager at SprinNG, an organization for the Promotion and Improvement of Nigerian Gen-Zs’ writing. In the future, she hopes to become the COO of billion-dollar start-ups and sit on boards that will enact laws against Gender-based violence.

Zuliehat Ohunene Abdullahi is an Environmental Activist, an SDG advocate, an educator, and a serial volunteer with six years of working experience. She has also interned for industries such as the Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited and she is currently an educator at a prestigious school in Kaduna State. From the youthful age of 16, she got admitted to the prestigious Federal University of Technology Minna, Niger State, where she received a bachelor’s in technology honors (Urban and Regional Planning, school of environmental technology). She was also the assistant state leader for the coca-cola mission zero plastic initiative in Kaduna state whose aim is to recycle 18,000 000 tons by 2021. She works at the Accountability Lab Nigeria where she hopes to address the issue of insecurity that affects her community and support people with disabilities as well. Zuliehat believes PWDs should be given equal rights which is their fundamental human right and also be given an opportunity for their voices and opinions to be heard.

Momo Jr. James MPH is a young public health practitioner and researcher who strongly desires to build a career within the academic and public health sectors. He is a graduate of the James P. Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University. He is currently African Methodist Episcopal University’s youngest lecturer in the Department of Public Health. He is the founder of Health Torch Liberia, a research-based organization that aims to unveil health issues and provide context-specific solutions. In the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, he served as a Case Investigator in Liberia. He works as a research officer at the Ministry of Health and has contributed significantly to a series of research and interventions that helped communities in promoting optimal health. As a member of the AMR Technical Working Group, he contributed to validating the Liberia Health Facility Antimicrobial Stewardship Guideline and its rollout in 2021. He aspires to become a professor and pursue a Ph.D. in Public Health with a focus on antimicrobial resistance while inspiring the lives of other young people.

Buji Francisca is a geography graduate of the University of Buea where she served as the Auditor of the University of Buea Geography students association and finished as the (2021) best graduating female student with distinction and leadership awards. She is an environmental activist, a Sexual and Reproductive Health and rights advocate, a peace and equality ambassador and Girls Advisor at Comagend Cameroon, president and Branch leader of the skylight association, a conscript of the Cameroon National Civic service agency for participation in Development, a first aider and Frontline, a 2021 finalist and received the evo-inovators’ award. Beyond her key interest in areas of gender management, environmental sustainability, and advocacy, Buji is passionate about expanding opportunities for Adolescent girls and young women to be economically empowered and become digital literates leading her to start a Business Brand that aims at creating employment opportunities and Co-found STAR Association which serves as an incubator for AGYW to make their voices relevant in today’s world. She is currently working on creating a platform to train girls to be digitally literate. Francisca pictures a society where Adolescent girls are economically empowered with income generation skills and included in key positions of leadership. She enjoys carrying out research, dancing, and visiting natural and beautiful environments.

Buh, Joycelyne Esah is a young business administration graduate of the University of Buea where she finished as one of the 2021 best graduating students with upper second-class honors and numerous academic and leadership awards. She received the 2022 YIL Scholar award. Beyond her keen interests in accounting, finance, and research, Esah is passionate about business consultancy, leadership in all spheres, and agricultural development, leading her to co-found The Farmer’s World Association Common Initiative Group and Youth Empowerment Program, an organization that provides farmers and youths with career guidance/expansion and mentorship for youths. She aspires to become a Business consultant-Innovator using cutting-edge tools, skills, and technologies to solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges, particularly in business administration and leadership. She enjoys traveling and loves to play football.”

Iheme Gideon Onyedikachi is a lecturer and researcher at the Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike (MOUAU) Nigeria. He is actively inclined toward all aspects of nutritional sciences research/practice, public health advocacy, and data science/machine learning application. Gideon’s laudable research track record is evident in his attainment of over 25 publications in high-impact journals, and research communication at international conferences such as the American Society for Nutrition, International Congress of Dietetics, International Congress of Nutrition, etc. He also has peer-review/editorship obligations with several international journals. He is the principal investigator of a nutrition research consortium and has won/attracted several research awards/grants in his independent and collaborative research engagements. Gideon has also led/participated in nutrition and health-focused programs/projects by co-founding, volunteering, and partnering with non-governmental organizations/civil societies, academic or professional institutions, and the government to improve nutrition and health.

Ojo Oluwafemi is a climate activist, renewable energy enthusiast, and environmental journalist. He is the Team Lead at Pale Blue Dot Initiative (PaBDI), which he founded as a response to the dearth of awareness on climate change in Africa. He currently serves as an Editorial Associate in the Media and Messaging Team of Extinction Rebellion UK. In recognition of his environmental journalism, he was selected amongst 100 young journalists globally to attend the Future News Worldwide 2022 Conference organized by the British Council. He is a final-year student of Economics at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and a CFI-certified financial analyst. Oluwafemi was recently appointed as a Local Chapter Leader in Nigeria by the Foundation for Climate Restoration as part of his vision for an Africa that is carbon-free. He participated in the 3-day Future of Sustainability Conference organized by Old Mutual Insurance in South Africa and was part of the team that came 3rd at the 2022 edition of the Dystopia Research and Presentation Competition. He is passionate about Sustainable Development Goals and the volunteers freely with organizations that are committed to their actualization.

Okoronkwo David John is a Research and Data Analyst, and Social Entrepreneur. He specializes in Agricultural Extension, where he strives to build climate resilience and sustainable livelihood among rural farmers by harnessing the potential of agricultural innovations, technologies, and nature-based farming models to deliver a sustainable and equitable agri-food system transition. He has co-authored 9 peer-review journals and conference papers, which has strengthened his writing, analytic and problem-solving skills. He has led and co-led several projects in the agri-food system nexus. Notably, the GreenChef project, Convergence Teach Climate Hackathon challenge, and Young catfish farmers, among others. He is the founder of Upskill Naija, a grant-winning company, and also co-founder, of Youths Organizing for Sustainability in Agriculture (YOSA)”. He marks his excellence with his emergence as First Class Honors in 2021, and the overall best student in the Department and the entire Faculty of Agriculture, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). Currently, he is a research intern at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (FMARD), Abuja, Nigeria.

Boboye Israel Oluremi is a researcher and development professional, with over three years of experience in project management, data analysis, monitoring, and evaluation in the non-profit sector. He earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Demography and Social Statistics from Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria. Israel has his focus on Monitoring and Evaluation, which he started during his Master’s program. Currently, as the M&E Lead, Israel manages the M&E system, where he successfully developed an OKR system that keeps project activities and output in check. The system has recorded over 60% increase in project productivity, helped to successfully track regular progress, made more effective and informed decisions, and achieved measurement, accountability, transparency, and impact. He also currently supervises an Investment project that focuses on media reporting of Health, Agriculture, and Gender stories across Nigeria. He has also been involved in several proposal writings, funded by international organizations, and had recorded success.

Omotosho Gloria Oluwafunmibi graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Adekunle Ajasin University (AAUA), Ondo State. She’s an evangelist, baker, digital product creator, motivational speaker, coach, mentor, serial entrepreneur, and author. She’s a passionate seeker of God, committed to raising a generation that seeks God, fulfills its purpose, and influences society. She’s the founder of Dove Baking Academy, an offline and online baking academy that empowers youths with baking skills at an affordable price. She has trained over 300 youths across Africa. She’s the founder of Digital Creators Hub, a platform that guides people on how to turn their knowledge, skills, potential, or experience into a digital asset that gives them passive income and also impacts lives, thereby reducing purposelessness, poverty, and unemployment globally. Her dreams are to be a great business mogul and digital product creator who has a great impact on society and individuals.

Ibitomi Ibiwumi Otunola is a young History graduate of the University of Abuja and is currently the community relations manager of Street2School foundation, where he has helped launch the first mobile school in Nigeria, located in Zamani, Abuja FCT. He is the recipient of the 2021 Roddenberry foundation catalyst grant, a UPG sustainability leader, and the winner of the MICC essay competition. Beyond his keen interests in education, technology, and research, Ibitomi’s future plan is to use community ideas and research to develop community-centered solutions. Ibitomi is also the program coordinator of the Ile-Iwe project, an initiative aimed at bridging the digital divide in low-income Nigerian homes. He wants to be a Researcher-Digital education innovator, using cutting-edge tools, skills, and technologies to solve some of Nigeria’s pressing challenges, particularly in education and community development. He enjoys meditation and traveling and he is a global citizen.

Adedayo Adedayo Yisah is a young Nigerian pharmacist and active change maker. He graduated from the University of Ibadan in 2021 and holds a National Diploma in Science Laboratory Technology from The Polytechnic, Ibadan. His core values include hard work, humility and service. Adedayo is a fellow of many reputable local and International organizations. He is a 2018 fellow of Young African Leadership initiative Accra, Ghana, a 2022 Ayoka fellow, Leap Africa Youth Leadership program participant and a winner of presidential candidate for the 2022 Young Innovation Leaders Fellowship. In 2015, he won the award for best graduating student in science laboratory technology from the polytechnic Ibadan in 2015, he won best position paper at the 2020 Ibadan Model United Nations and 2022 Leap Africa Young Leadership program social impact grant. Adedayo is on a mission of building a formidable pharmaceutical services delivery chain across Nigeria and probably Africa.

Iyanuoluwa Adeyemo is a First-Class Law graduate from Obafemi Awolowo University, where she received the Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria JV Award. Iyanuoluwa had an undergraduate internship in the Tax Division of KPMG. In 2020, she received the Award of Academic Excellence, as the Best Graduating Maritime Law Student in Nigeria. A professional freelance writer and editor, Iyanuoluwa offers services to local and international clients in several niches. In 2021, Iyanuoluwa facilitated the Freelance Writing Session at the LEAP Africa International Youth Day of Service. As an advocate of personal and professional development, Iyanuoluwa has published LinkedIn articles to motivate Nigerian youths on building a strong professional online presence. She runs a newsletter platform, “Letters by Iyanu” where she connects with young females on her growth process, and engages in personal and professional conversations. Iyanuoluwa enjoys African fiction and self-help books. She also volunteers for causes which matter to her.”

Dzakpata koffi is known as Dzakpata Raymond on social networks. Global Youth Ambassador-GYA, Koffi is a blogger and editor in the news agency SANTE-EDUCATION. In 2018, he was a winner of the “Ecrivain en Herbe” competition in Benin. Also an alumnus of the Yali Dakar Civic Leadership program in 2019 and a social activist as co-founder of the JDCC (Jeunes pour le Développement Citoyen et Culturel) association, writing is for him a way to bring everything to life. A member of Theirworld in London, International Youth Society (IYS), he also volunteers with several NGOs to promote quality education. Today, it aims to be a key player in the digital world. Acquire digital skills to bring innovation that will enable concrete solutions for a better and sustainable world. He is passionate about literature, nature, travel, and football.

Alabi, Mutiyat Taiye is a medical doctor with an interest in interventional radiology and Artificial intelligence. She is passionate about solving problems faced by the health sector in Nigeria. Her undergraduate degree was obtained from the University of Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria in 2018, where she recorded numerous successes in her tenure as president /executive member of various committees, steering the activities on campus forward. Mutiyat did not only focus on academics but also volunteered in community services via a series of medical outreaches, orphanage visitations, and mentorship of junior colleagues in her department. She received an award of excellence as the hematology course representative of her set. She was recognized as the best in mathematics in her Freshman year. Going forward, she’s on the lookout for various opportunities to explore in detail the realities of the deteriorating status of healthcare delivery in Nigeria, thus building her curiosity and morale. Meanwhile, she remains resilient in developing her skills in the field of medicine, radiology, AI, and leadership.

Douda BAH is a young Malian. Douda Bah holds a degree in geology from the Faculty of Science and Technology of Bamako in Mali. Evolving in a mineral laboratory, very passionate about issues related to climate change, good governance, and citizenship, He also campaigned in community life to highlight the culture of change and the advancement of democracy and the state of rights in our States from the smallest scale to the top of the pyramid of our States. A very active member of the Democracy Tech Squads Network, The Citizen Engagement Group, and Mali Awakening. These sets of youth networks in Mali contribute greatly to raising collective awareness, especially participatory, for good governance. In 2018, during the presidential elections, he was a data manager for electoral offices, having trained more than 200 young people in data reporting techniques. In 2019, he piloted an extensive awareness and reforestation campaign for organizations to plant more than 2000 tree feet across the country. Having participated in several awareness campaigns: election campaigns, on the COVID-19 pandemic, on GBV, sanitation, citizenship, equal opportunities, peace, cohesion, living together, etc.

He received the Young Innovation Leadership (YIL) program scholarship for 2022.

Ugwoke Simon is a focused and purpose-driven researcher passionate about reducing to the nearest minimum the effect of heat stress orchestrated by climate change on farm animals. He is a 2021 graduate of Animal Science from the University of Nigeria where he emerged as the best graduating student from his Department. He has volunteered for a lot of organizations including the Noma-wealth consults Human Resource Development Center, Youth organizing for sustainability in agriculture (YOSA), and National Primary Health Care Development Agency. Simon has also participated in several groups in different community development projects including a sensitization program on the need for each family to have a garden and/or pen titled “GarPens” all in the fight against food insecurity and climate change. He is looking to take this fight nationwide by constantly looking for avenues that will improve his leadership and innovation skills.

Nwaka Emmanuel is a graduate of Chemical Engineering from the Federal University of Technology where he finished with distinction and numerous academic and leadership awards. He is a 2019 MTN Foundation Scholar, a 2020 Commonwealth100 Alumnus, a 2021 LEAP Africa Alumnus, and has recently received the 2022 YIL Scholar Award. He was awarded a scholarship to study Entrepreneurship by the Jim Leech Fellowship at Queen’s University Canada. As a Content Marketing Specialist, he uses customer psychology to attract, engage and convert prospects into customers. His exemplary leadership has made him serve as an Executive Member in top organizations like the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, Block Degree, and SkillUp Nigeria. He has been featured in top publications like HackerNoon, Bootcamp, and Illumination. He wants to be a Management Consultant using relevant expertise to solve the world’s most pressing challenges, particularly in business growth. He enjoys playing the piano and traveling.

Richard Agbroko is 33 years old and a graduate of the University of Hertfordshire, the UK where I hold a bachelor’s degree in economics and human resources and a postgraduate certificate in international business. Also, I hold other certificates which include; the Nigerian national youth service corps certificate and the University of Hertfordshire’s training and key skills certificate. In my past work experience, I was opportune to work for some companies on varied contracts during my undergraduate degree, firms which included; FedEx and royal mail among others. further, on completion of my first degree, I worked as a teaching assistant for ugborikoko secondary school for my NYSC, a school in delta state, Nigeria. My most recent position of responsibility was during my time as a trainee in the Tony Elumelu foundation entrepreneurship program from April 2021 to August 2021. My hobbies include; traveling, cinema, writing, and music. I am currently a writer and researcher.

Apabiekun Timileyin Micah is an experienced Project manager, with 3 years of experience focused on developing new business ideas and leading high-impact projects with experience delivering some of the biggest human capital developmental projects in Nigeria. I have working experience in the aviation, telecommunications, and human capital development industries. Over the years, I’ve garnered experience and skills in project management, and web development, and taught over 300 people across different skill areas with both soft and technical skills and I am looking forward to applying my knowledge and experience in project management in human capital development & Telecomms and learning new techniques as I serve in a team to deliver set objectives and achieve business goals. These are my aspirations everywhere I find myself and I also love football and support Arsenal.

Afuye, Raymond Olasunkanmi is a First-Class honors graduate, from the department of Computer Engineering, Ekiti State University, where he received an Award as the best student in the department, he was also the President of the largest student fellowship (RCF) on campus. He is passionate about research and the development of technology in Africa, He was a volunteer with Start Codon ltd. Uk(Cambridge University), where he joined a team of Young researchers across Africa to research Biotechnology startup firms in Africa. He is currently undergoing his NYSC in Delta state Nigeria, serving at Bigt Infotech Solutions LTD, as a robotics Trainer. He is currently a member of the Data Science Nigeria Research group, where he is being mentored on the publication of his research work in embedded systems, He is an aspiring machine learning engineer, aspiring to solve some health care, industrial and economic challenges.

Elijah Abbey Adodo is a highly motivated family physician in training with an interest in leadership, management, and technological innovations in achieving sustainable growth in Africa. He had his medical training at the University of Ibadan as an Agbami Medical and Engineering professional scholar. He also has an additional certificate in leadership and healthcare management. Elijah is passionate about seeking innovative ways to promote healthcare awareness and creating more opportunities for affordable and quality healthcare accessible for all. He also has a keen interest in promoting leadership education among youth, making him volunteer with the FAME Initiative team in promoting leadership values among secondary school students in Nigeria. This is to help these young leaders facilitate sustainable developments in their personal lives and communities. He wants to raise a generation of transformational and innovative leaders in sub-Saharan Africa, and also help individuals, organizations, and nations improve performance and become more productive.

Wilson Inemesit Imoh is a student medical physiologist at the University of Uyo where she is currently setting the pace as the best student in her department, with an excellent academic track record. She is a 2021 International Congress of Medical Sciences Ambassador, a 2021 Millennium Campus Network fellow, a 2022 United People Global Sustainable Leader, a 2022 United People Global Biashara Entrepreneur, 2022 The Platform Young Professionals fellow, a 2021 Academic Director of the Student Physiological Association of Nigeria – Uniuyo, a recipient of her Head of Department award for best student in 300 level class and the founder of a start-up enterprise, Bookvest. Aside from her academics, Inemesit is a devoted advocate for SDG3, which has driven her to execute various health-led projects and awareness campaigns in her community and beyond. When she is not ruminating on ideas that could evoke positive transitions in the world, she loves to listen to music and write micro-fiction/poems.

Dangana Muazu Muhammad is a first-class graduate of human anatomy from Ahmadu Bello University Zaria where he finished in 2020 as the second-best graduating student in the department. He was a recipient of the shell petroleum development company undergraduate scholarship award and also the Federal Government of Nigeria’s scholarship award for academic excellence. He has served as a project manager for an NGO called Community Health Development Initiative. He currently owns his own tech store and works part-time as a call center agent for the National population commission of Nigeria. He is passionate about learning and building new networks. He wants to be a Tech Mogul developer. He enjoys reading and purpose-driven conversations.

Chagga Jonathan Taro is a young Nigerian graduate of linguistics at the University of Abuja where he finished in the 2018 academic and leadership awards which include the best

entrepreneur for the Nigeria Fellowship of Evangelical Students(NIFES). He was also the General Coordinator of Community development service, Chagga is presently a student with the African center for leadership development (center LSD) Abuja. Chagga has a diploma in human resource management from udemy 2022 and also a certificate in data skills in 2022. He has served in various capacities as a leader including Zonal outreach coordinator at Nives Abuja Zonal. Chagga was a Call center agent with Integra networks Abuja.

Adetula David Oluwatimilehin is an emerging Dental Surgeon. He holds a Bachelor of Science (BSc.) degree in Botany from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. He is a member of the Committee on Dental Education and Health (CODEH) in his institution where he regularly volunteers for health outreaches to communities with limited access to oral healthcare. David believes some of Africa’s biggest healthcare problems could be solved if each country’s public health functions appropriately. This is where he hopes to focus after graduation. As a published writer on both local and international platforms, David’s excellent writing skill has earned him several recognitions and accolades including emerging as a Finalist, in the 2021 World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) National Essay Competition, an invitation from the Royal Commonwealth Society to serve as a Judge in the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2021. David is currently a Writing Fellow at African Liberty and Students for Liberty (SFL).

Nwobodo Juliet Chidera has over 3 years of experience in the development space. Currently works as the communications assistant at Bridge Connect Africa Initiative where she focuses on drafting advocacy campaigns and communications strategies that help promote sexual reproductive health and rights, speak against gender-based violence, and harmful traditional practices, and encourage girl child education. She has also been involved in numerous policy advocacies. Juliet is committed to ensuring that young people in society have equal access to the opportunities needed to explore their full potential and are safe from harmful norms. She is a 2022 Fellow of the ONE Champion Nigeria, An SRHR advocate, and a content creator.