OUR TEAM
ULOMA ONYEBUCHI
C.E.O/Founder
Uloma is a visionary leader and social entrepreneur dedicated to driving Africa’s socio-economic development as the President and Founder of Innovate Africa Corp, while leveraging her financial expertise as Executive Advisor at Nigeria’s leading Agri-Fintech firm, Sunclave Investment Limited, and through her global consultancy Miconcorporation LLC that facilitates foreign investments in Africa. With a robust banking background at Platinum Bank Nigeria, Bank of Scotland, and Santander UK, and academic credentials including a BSc in Statistics & Economics from the University of Nigeria Nsukka and an MSc in Mathematics from the University of Aberdeen, she combines financial acumen with strategic problem-solving skills to create impact. Her passion for empowerment is evident through The Bold and Beautiful Youth Foundation, which advances women and youth development, and her role as Director of International Relations for the Eastern Nigeria International Film Festival (ENIFF), showcasing her multifaceted commitment to fostering sustainable growth, good governance, and cultural advancement across Africa.
UJUAKU AKUKWE
C.O.O./Global Creative Director
Ujuaku Akukwe is a distinguished communication and strategy expert with 20+ years of experience in political advocacy, digital media, and impactful storytelling, recognized by the California State Legislature and Nigeria Women Entrepreneur Award for her transformative campaigns. An acclaimed impact producer and documentary filmmaker, she amplifies marginalized voices and social issues through authentic narratives while holding degrees from the University of Nigeria, Pan Atlantic University, and the New York Film Academy. As an Acumen Fellow, TEDx speaker, founder of the Eastern Nigeria Film and Arts Initiative, and CEO of Frances Ashley Media, she blends creative storytelling, strategic leadership, and social entrepreneurship to drive meaningful change across Africa and beyond.
JEREMIAH AGALA
Executive Director, Programs
Jeremiah Agala is a highly accomplished African youth leadership strategist, skills development coach, and motivational speaker with over 20 years of experience, renowned for his unwavering belief in Africa’s potential and his innovative initiatives that empower youth across the continent. As an exceptional entrepreneur and consultant, he has made significant impacts in advertising, branding, and human services, while serving on the boards of multiple organizations, including The Inspiring Youths Africa Initiative and Rest Logic Nigeria. Jeremiah is the Creative Programme Director of Inspiring Youth Africa Magazine, Executive Director of Corporate Affairs and Leadership Development for We the Youths, and a consultant to the Cross River State Government on youth development. A dynamic convener, he organizes high-impact events like the Emerging Youth Leaders Conference and African Women and Youths in Agro Trade Summit, attracting thousands of participants globally. A prolific author, sought-after speaker, and media personality, Jeremiah’s thought leadership and passion for reading, exploration, and youth empowerment continue to inspire a new generation of African leaders.
HAKEEM TIJANI
Principal Advisor
Hakeem Tijani is a dynamic leader and catalyst for exponential growth, youth empowerment, and community transformation, renowned for his ability to bridge gaps between needs and resources to drive entrepreneurial and social impact. As a Connection and Impact Enabler, he specializes in fostering collaboration, building ecosystems, and turning initiatives into success stories. A trailblazer in youth ministry and leadership development, he empowers the next generation with purpose-driven tools, while his role as a community enabler unites diverse groups for collective progress. With expertise in **communications, marketing, and PR, he elevates brands through strategic storytelling and engagement. Hakeem’s visionary leadership, whether in business, youth development, or community building, makes him a transformative force, dedicated to innovation, empowerment, and lasting change. His mission: to cultivate a culture where people, ideas, and experiences converge for a better world.
MIMI AKONG
Director of Projects
Mimi Akong is a Cameroonian-American development practitioner, researcher, and founder of Her Empowerment Foundation, a nonprofit focused on supporting women and advancing community-led development across Africa. She is currently completing a Master’s of Arts in International Relations with a concentration in International Development from American University’s School of International Service. Mimi has worked across the foreign policy and international development space, including roles as a FOIA analyst, field researcher, and program coordinator supporting U.S. government agencies such as the Department of Defense and Department of State. Her research and on-the-ground work across East and Southern Africa have focused on donor transitions, sustainability, and the power of grassroots initiatives. Mimi believes that aid to Africa has long been rooted in charity, often disempowering the very communities it aims to support. She is committed to reshaping that model by advocating for sustainable, African-led approaches that center equity, accountability, and long-term impact.
STEPHEN UMAPIA
Media-Tech Director
Stephen Umapia is a versatile professional at the intersection of broadcasting, technology, and business consultancy. With a background in computer science and extensive experience in Nigeria’s media industry, he blends creativity with technical expertise to deliver innovative, high-impact solutions.
As CEO of iKyng Media Ltd, Stephen drives initiatives that fuse storytelling, digital media, and technology to engage audiences and empower brands. His career spans television, radio, digital content production, and voiceovers, supported by certifications in digital marketing, project management, and media production.
Passionate about leveraging emerging technologies to shape narratives and inspire change, Stephen aims to expand iKyng Media across Africa, mentor young media-tech talents, and amplify African voices on the global stage.
OLUKAYODE AJALA
Director Admin
Olukayode Ajala is a seasoned media professional with over 25 years’ experience in broadcast journalism, newspaper reporting, and advertising. Holding a Master’s degree in Political Science, he brings depth and insight to his coverage of Nigeria’s political landscape.
A registered advertising practitioner, he has served as a journalist, reporter, and advertising manager, enriched by specialized media training in Africa and abroad. His expertise and strategic perspective have earned him recognition as a respected voice in African media and political analysis.