Executive Council


Julius Ilori
Julius Ilori is an innovative Social entrepreneur, inclusive education advocate, and thought leader in education technology reform and social inclusion. He is a recipient of the U.S. Department of State’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) award, completing his fellowship at the University of Delaware, USA. Representing Nigeria on global platforms, Julius has championed educational transformation and inclusion at the UN General Assembly and the Third Summit for Democracy in South Korea.
As Co-founder of Learners Corner Education Tech Hub, Julius empowers educators with innovative tools, collaborating with key stakeholders such as the Lagos State Ministry of Education to expand access to quality learning. He has led multiple international delegations on education technology, facilitating partnerships and knowledge-sharing to drive systemic change.
Julius is a certified project manager and the President of the Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni Association of Nigeria (MWFAAN). In 2024, he won the prestigious Mandela Grant, which he utilized to renovate a special needs classroom and train teachers in tech-enabled learning approaches, fostering greater inclusivity in education.
As a member of the Technical Working Group of the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Julius contributes to policies and initiatives that empower young people. His work in education and social inclusion has earned him recognition, including being featured on the Young Leaders Show on Voice of America.
Julius remains dedicated to shaping the future of education through innovation, collaboration, and advocacy, striving to build a more inclusive and equitable learning environment for all.


Susanne Ogunleye
Susanne Ogunleye is the visionary CEO of JUBS (Jasmine Ultra Blue Solutions) and the Vice President of the Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni Association of Nigeria. With a background in biochemistry, safety, and public health, Susanne is passionate about initiating transformative healthcare projects. Her career spans diverse industries, including clinical hospitals, the oil and gas sector, and startups, where she has consistently excelled in driving innovation and sales success.
At Jasmine Ultra Blue Solutions, Susanne leads accessible healthcare initiatives across Nigeria. Under her leadership, the company has launched groundbreaking flagship products: UltraBlue Medics for events and programs, UltraBlue Center offering comprehensive medical services, and UltraBlue Woman, empowering women through fitness and wellness.
Beyond her role as CEO, Susanne is a passionate advocate for women in business and leadership. She served as the chapter lead of Future Females Lagos from 2022-2024 and is a founding member of Herconomy, dedicated to advancing women’s empowerment. Her contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including a nomination for Forbes Africa Over 30 Under 50 2025, being one of 4 winners of the Microscope Impact Award for Youth in Social Change Lagos State 2024, and recognition by Vanguard as one of the 22 Most Enterprising Women in 2023.
Currently, Susanne serves as a consultant and administrator with the LeadHership Foundation Namibia, empowering female entrepreneurs across Africa and reinforcing her commitment to impactful change.
Susanne is an altruist and a staunch believer in individual potential. She is dedicated to creating a brighter future for women in healthcare and entrepreneurship


Afeez Iyiola
Afeez Iyiola Afeez Iyiola is a distinguished Social Entrepreneur, Educational Project Development Expert, professional coach and Project Management Specialist with extensive experience in Africa's dynamic educational landscape. He is grounded in Education and Youth Development. He strongly believes that education, technology and entrepreneurial innovation are pivotal for Africa's advancement and developments.
Afeez is committed to empowering educators at all levels and young people. He achieves this by designing and implementing programs, advocating for policy reforms largely on education and use of technology, and fostering strategic partnerships such as 1 million teachers, Jobberman, Mastercard Foundation, Governments etc Afeez notable roles are: Founder of Coachfrika, an EdTech company that provides individualised professional development for teachers in Africa.
Co-Founder of Jeedah Interiors, a company that provides impeccable comfort to spaces like buildings, offices and others.
Program Director at TentaGrow Integrated Farms Limited, a business organisation that focus on empowering youths through agriculture.
Mentor For Tony Elumelu Foundation and a recipients of 2024 Mandela Washington Fellowship, 2023, Future Perspectives Fellowship, 2022 Inclusive Education Fellowship, 2019 Crossboader Leadership Fellowship and other.
He is driven by a profound passion for quality, excellence and accessibile education to drive positive ans continous change, Afeez Iyiola continues to be one of the front runner forces that is transforming Africa's education trajectory and undiluted commitment to creating a brigther future for young people and educators in his continent.


Kingsley Kalu
Kelsey is a dedicated health advocate and the Founder/Executive Director of DeKhay’s Envo and STAG in Nigeria. With a focus on marginalized communities, Kelsey has led advocacy, research, and policy efforts that promote health equity, reaching over 200,000 individuals and fostering partnerships across Africa and globally.
As the Advocacy, Policy, and Communication Director at Think Positive Live Positive Support Initiative, Kelsey has led impactful campaigns, securing resources in funding and reaching millions through Comprehensive Sexuality Education. Their work includes advocating for policy inclusion, leading the #YGBQTDigitalInclusion campaign for gender-sensitive digital spaces, and promoting the U=U message among marginalized men in Lagos through Campaign_USSH.
Kelsey is also a Climate Adaptation Specialist and Project Lead at DeKhay’s Envo, where they have influenced policy changes and secured resources for sustainable farming practices. Recognized as an EVWA Changemaker in 2023, a 2024 Rise Up Fellow, and a 2024 Mandela Washington Fellow, Kelsey’s leadership extends to climate resilience and smallholder farmer empowerment.
Internationally, Kelsey has championed data privacy rights for marginalized communities through the #mydataourhealth campaign with Transform Health and advocated for minority representation at CYGEN. They currently lead numerous Projects addressing funding and capacity challenges for grassroots CSOs, and a UNFPA-funded initiative to digitize Comprehensive Sexuality Education for out-of-school marginalized youth living with HIV.
With expertise in public health, advocacy, and community engagement, Kelsey’s efforts continue to advance social justice, health equity, and inclusive policy reform.


James Akan
James Akan is driven by an unwavering commitment to uplift marginalized communities and regions ravaged by conflict, he ignites hope and progress across Nigeria and beyond. His vibrant passion for impactful policies fuels his work in youth development, making him a beacon of hope for a brighter future.
He is Publicity Secretary of the Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni Association of Nigeria (MWFAAN) and founded The Experience Academy, a thriving youth hub empowering young people with the skills and knowledge to overcome unemployment, youth unrest, and historical marginalization.
As former Head of Communication, Media, and Policy at the Clement Isong Foundation, James Akan spearheaded groundbreaking projects, including the Akwa Ibom Youth Demand Charter and crucial climate change dialogues.
James Akan's expertise in youth engagement and the non-profit sector has earned him esteemed positions on the Boards of Trustees for Citizens Outreach Nigeria and Partners for Citizens Engagement (PACE) Africa.
As spokesperson for the Democracy Africa Youth Parliament, Akan launched the "Youth for Agenda 2063" initiative, inspiring countless young minds to drive positive change. His impactful projects in Zambia, Gambia, Ghana, and Nigeria, aligned with SDGs 1, 2, 4, 10, and 13, significantly contribute to the African Union's vision for the future.
Armed with a degree in Philosophy from the University of Uyo and an Executive Mini MBA in Leadership and Management, Akan recently completed a Leadership in Public Management course at Georgia State University.
James's vision extends beyond his accomplishments. He aims to incubate the next generation of leaders, equipping them with the skills, information, and training necessary to spearhead impactful policy implementation globally.
Featured in interviews with the BBC and other international media outlets, Akan is a prominent voice for change. A YALI Regional Alumnus, Emerging Africa Leader Fellow, and 2024 Mandela Washington Fellow.


Uyi Effiom
Uyi Effiom is a versatile professional dedicated to environmental conservation and empowering women and young girls. With over nine years of experience as a lawyer, accomplished chef, and passionate environmentalist, she has significantly contributed to corporate social responsibility and community engagement. Her initiatives primarily target the marine environment and aim to improve the socio-economic status of women and young girls in coastal communities.
Uyi's professional engagements encompass various workshops, conferences, and memberships in esteemed organizations such as Women for Environment (WE) AFRICA, which aims to place women at the forefront of the environmental movement and develop them as effective leaders. She is also a Mandela Washington Alumni and the Southern Zonal Coordinator for the Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni Association of Nigeria (MWFAAN). She is the Legal Adviser of the University of Calabar Alumni Association, Uyo Chapter and a member of the Nigerian Bar Association.
She is the visionary founder of the Score Your Sustainable Development Goal Project, which has significantly impacted tertiary institutions in Akwa Ibom State. This initiative led to establishing the SDG club, focusing on capacity building to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN-SDGs).
Currently, she is the Human Resources/ Monitoring & Evaluation Manager at SOFER Initiative , an environmental nonprofit.


Mahfuz Alabidun
Mahfuz Alabidun is an inspiring social entrepreneur and educationist who has dedicated his life to making a positive impact in the lives of others, especially those who are less privileged. His work with the Inmates Educational Foundation, which he founded, is a testament to his commitment to providing educational opportunities for inmates and helping to reduce recidivism rates in Nigeria.
Through the Inmates Educational Foundation, Mahfuz Alabidun has been able to provide educational materials, mentorship, and training programs to over 4000 inmates in several prisons so far in Lagos, Ebonyi, Osun, Oyo and Kano States Nigeria. He has also initiated various advocacy programs to raise awareness about the importance of education in rehabilitating and reintegrating inmates into society.
He is a serial volunteer with social, religious, and political groups. Mahfuz is a hold a Master's in Educational Management at Lagos State University.
Mahfuz Alabidun's work has earned him several recognitions and awards, including being selected as a 2023 Mandela Washington Fellow Fully Funded by the United States Department of State, the 2022 Peak Unstoppable Human of Change Award, 2021 Muhammed Sanusi SDG challenge award, Active Citizen Awards and many others.
Mahfuz TEDx Lagos speaker which is streamed on Tedx Global platform. He also runs MAMUT GLOBAL EDUCATION CONSULT, further solidifying his impact in education.
He is an excellent example of how one person's passion and dedication can make a difference in the lives of many.


Aisha Bindawa
Aisha is an incredibly motivated individual who has a strong focus on entrepreneurship and socio-economic development. She holds a bachelor's degree in Computer Science and a master's in Business Administration with over 20 certifications in developmental courses. Currently, Aisha is the founder of “Aysha Bindawa Initiative”.
With over 10 years of experience working in manufacturing, business management and working with civil society, disadvantaged groups, and private sector entities in Northern Nigeria.
Aisha's dedication to making a difference is evident through her involvement in various initiatives such as the Katsina Girl Child Education Scholarship Initiative and the Almajiri Child Rights Initiative.
Throughout her career, Aisha has been recognized for her outstanding contributions and has received several awards, including the YAS award “youth for Africa and SDGs” which is an initiative of the UNDP powered by Accenture and the Mandela Washington fellowship.


Ruth Soronnadi
Ruth Soronnadi is a lawyer, Chartered Mediator, and Administrator with over 7 years of experience in human rights advocacy, policy development, and social impact. She specializes in designing capacity-building programs, managing partnerships, and promoting sustainable development across Africa. Ruth has successfully led initiatives, advocated for vulnerable populations, and collaborated with Members of Parliament, governments, NGOs, and private sector partners on human rights and climate change policy issues.
As a skilled communicator, Ruth has been featured on radio and TV programs discussing human rights, climate change, and social justice. She has served as a resource person at key events, including the Anambra State ACJA/ACJL Working Group Meeting by CLEEN Foundation and the Child Justice Administration training by the British Council's Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) project.
Her written contributions on topics such as torture, prisoners’ rights, juvenile rehabilitation, and climate justice have been published in prominent platforms like Premium Times, reflecting her dedication to driving critical conversations on these issues.
Ruth holds a Master’s degree in International Human Rights Law (summa cum laude) from Nnamdi Azikiwe University. She is the Regional Policy Coordinator at Climate Parliament, where she supports climate finance and green energy initiatives in Africa. She also serves as National Secretary and Legal Advisor for the Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni Association of Nigeria (MWFAAN) and is the Lead Partner at LuxHouse Attorneys and Solicitors.
A 2024 Mandela Washington Fellow (USA) and YALI Cohort 9 Fellow (RLC Ghana), Ruth combines her expertise to provide strategic advisory and administrative services to governmental and international organizations committed to social impact and sustainable development.


Irene David-Arinze
I am Irene David-Arinze, a dynamic multimedia journalist, development communications professional, and social entrepreneur. I am the founder of LIDA Network, a digital media and innovation platform, focusing on promoting economic and social justice, expanding energy access advocacy for underserved communities, and offering capacity-building opportunities for journalists across the African continent. My platform serves as a bridge between the media, development sectors, and grassroots communities, aiming to tackle socio-economic challenges through sustainable solutions.
I completed my Bachelors in Engineering degree from Covenant University, and I am an alumni of Harvard Business School Global Business Online Program. Currently, I am pursuing a Master’s Degree in International Affairs and Diplomacy at Amadu Bello University in Nigeria.
I am an alumni of the Thomson Reuters Foundation Program on Combating Illicit Financial Flows in Africa and a 2024 Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni. I am also a two time PwC Journalist of the Year nominee under the sustainability and small and medium enterprise reporting categories.
Board


Isaiah Owolabi


Debola Deji-Kurunmi


Hafsat Sahabi Dange Esq


Muazu Alhaji Modu
Muazu Alhaji Modu is an activist and social entrepreneur. He has over eight years of experience in civic engagement, specializing in social accountability, democracy and governance, peace building and climate action. He is Founder and Executive Director of Spotlight for Transparency and Accountability Initiative (ST&A), a non-governmental organization whose mission is to empower and work with communities to demand accountability, improve service delivery, and promote democratic governance using technology through her initiative Citizen-led Tracking. Muazu founded ST&A upon his return Mandela Washington Fellowship in 2018.
Citizen-led tracking started in October 2019 leveraging technology has impacted over 1.2 million rural lives in 200 marginalized communities in Northeastern Nigeria. In 2022, Citizen-led tracking emerged as one of the finalists for the Young Global Changers Recoupling by Global Solution Initiative in Berlin, Germany. A finalist for the 2021 African Civic Action Prize by Africtivites in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, Top 20 Best Innovation on Democracy and Governance by African Union, 30 Most Inspiring Digital Innovation on SDGs by Portos's Spindle in the Netherlands and 2022 emerged winner of maiden Active Citizen Award, Award for Civic Activism category by BudgIT in Lagos, Nigeria.
Muazu and his team after 2023 general election for the first time in the history of Nigeria compile and publish name, picture, age, constituency, disability status, tenure of all 994 house of assembly members across 36 states of Nigeria to empower citizen to demand accountability form subnational parliament in Nigerian and launch Beyond The Ballot Nigeria to increase transparency and citizen engagement in the subnational parliament in Nigeria.
Muazu is a 2018 Mandela Washington Fellow, he is also a 2021 African Civic Engagement Academy, University of Georgia alumni. A 2021 Ashoka Changemakers Everywhere Academy Alumni and 2022 Young Global Changers by the Global Solution Initiative. Muazu name among 100 most impact African 2023 by Global Humanitarian Award


Ezenwa Eleazar Okoro
Cohort Representatives


Festus Moses


Onyeka Nwigwe


Zion Obeten


Veronica Ijeweche Agana


Francis Ayomoh


Esther Onyinyechi Mark


Hadiza Daret Kasimu


Funmi Ilori


Usman Mareri
State Coordinators


Charity Isa Gwandzang


Adaeze Menekpugi


Saheed Ibrahim


Grace Danladi Saleh
Grace is a education consultant based in the beautiful sun city of Yola in Northeast Nigeria. She is enthusiastic about progressive learning and hopes to positively influence special-ed circle. She is a trained exclusive educationist with first-hand experience largely shaped through the Mandela Washington Fellowship in NY, United states.
For the past 5 years, Grace homeschools her 3 tiny humans which involves researching the varying curriculum options and approaches as well as modifying and supplementing curriculum to fit the needs of her children. In addition to her previous teaching experience, Grace has worked progressively with 20 parents of children with special needs and several caregivers on special single file curriculum.
While pursuing her lifelong dream of becoming a bestselling author, she desires to encourage parents and older children to take personal responsibility for their own educational options and choices.
In her free time, Grace enjoys reading, cooking and traveling.


Uyi Edem Effiom


Dr. Agom D. Ibrahim


Dr Abdulrahman Adamu Ahmed
Currently An Epidemiologist With CDC at US Embassy Abuja


Falaiye Titilayo


Testimony Asiagwu
Testimony Asiagwu is a seasoned Education Technology Consultant with over a decade of experience in the ICT and Education fields. He serves as the Chief Executive Officer at BIGT Infotech Solutions Limited, an ICT company dedicated to narrowing the digital skills gap in Africa through STEM education.
Testimony is the visionary behind the Robotics4kids Africa STEM Initiative - aimed at providing digital literacy skills to underprivileged children and adolescents. Since its establishment in 2019, his team has successfully empowered more than 10,000 adolescents with essential digital literacy skills. In addition to his efforts in STEM education, He takes the lead in connecting local educators with global edtech conferences annually.
Testimony holds a degree in Chemical Engineering from the Obafemi Awolowo University and an Executive Master's in Business Administration from The Quantic School of Business and Technology in the USA, along with several professional certifications. He is a passionate STEM advocate and a Mandela Washington Fellow recognized with multiple awards and accolades for his outstanding contributions to the education and technology sectors, and he was honoured as the Most Innovative Alumni of the Young African Leaders Regional Leadership Center, West Africa.
Testimony believes providing access to STEM education at the grassroots can transform Africa's next generation and elevate its socioeconomic indicators.
Testimony serves as the Delta State Coordinator for MWFAAN.


Okeoghene Ifiezibe Akusu
Medical doctor, Lecturer and Public Health Professional


Ebenezar Chiemerie .O.
Ebenezar Chiemerie .O. has a Masters of Science Degree in Project Management Technology and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Quantity Surveying. He lectures in the Department of Quantity Surveying, School of Environmental Design Technology at Abia State Polytechnic, Aba.
Much more, as a serial volunteer, he is a Faculty member at the Institute For Humanitarian Studies and Social Development Nigeria, helping to facilitate training programs.
He is a member of the prestigious International Leadership Association where he not only learning from best brains in leadership globally, but also shares to the world the leadership challenges and successes of Africa.
He was a 2023 Fellow of the U.S Department of States' Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders. Where he built robust personal and professional connections with organizations and individuals in the United States and Africa, then obtained certified professional training on Leadership in Public Management from Wayne State University in Detroit MI. USA.
He has about 10years experience in Public Management and Business Management, and runs Ebenezar Homes and Enterprises - an Interior Decoration and Furnishing Outfit as the Creative Director. He also leads a leadership consultancy outfit where he demonstrates exceptional leadership through service.
As part of his humanitarian gestures and passion, he is the Executive Director (Founder) of Smile With The Ebenezer Initiative. An NGO that provides humanitarian-assisted social intervention and service programs for the Elderly and other vulnerable persons. His NGO runs ‘STORYCARE’, a project that is conceptualized to showcase the sociocultural stories of elderly persons via video, audiovisual and animations.
Ebenezar has won several international and local awards as a result of living out the true meaning of his name-Ebenezar, by providing help and solutions to the needy. He is motivated by the smiles on the faces of people.
Cluster leads


Chisom Nwankwo


Blessing Bashir


Godwin Henry
Godwin Henry is a Development Professional with experience in human capital programs, research, and policy. Godwin serves as chapter lead of Lagos Plus Social Good where he leads the team to design and implement initiatives that contextualise the global goals and amplify progress toward the goals. He also serves as Thematic Lead of the Education Policy Commission at the Nigerian Economic Summit Group. He is an alumnus of the Mandela Washington Fellowship, British Council Future Leaders Connect Program and the NESG Bridge Fellowship. Across all his engagements, he is driven by the desire to democratise opportunities for everyone irrespective of socioeconomic background.


Saheed Ibrahim


Alabidun Mahfuz Mudathir
Mahfuz Alabidun is an inspiring social entrepreneur and educationist who has dedicated his life to making a positive impact in the lives of others, especially those who are less privileged. His work with the Inmates Educational Foundation, which he founded, is a testament to his commitment to providing educational opportunities for inmates and helping to reduce recidivism rates in Nigeria.
Through the Inmates Educational Foundation, Mahfuz Alabidun has been able to provide educational materials, mentorship, and training programs to over 2,500 inmates in several prisons so far in Lagos, Ebonyi,Osun,Kano States Nigeria. He has also initiated various advocacy programs to raise awareness about the importance of education in rehabilitating and reintegrating inmates into society.
He is a serial volunteer with social, religious, and political groups. Mahfuz is a postgraduate student from the Department of Educational Management at Lagos State University.
Mahfuz Alabidun's work has earned him several recognitions and awards, including being selected as a 2023 Mandela Washington Fellow Fully Funded by the United States Department of State, the 2022 Peak Unstoppable Human of Change Award 2021 Muhammed Sanusi SDG challenge award, Active Citizen Awards and recently Awarded Honorary Impact Award 2024. He is an excellent example of how one person's passion and dedication can make a difference in the lives of many.