Fellows
Beatrice Schultz
Namibia
Beatrice Schultz has over 10 years of experience in personal development. She serves as the head trainer for the Export Trade Training Programme for Trade Forward Southern Africa, an initiative supported by the U.K. government through her company Akoma Trading. Additionally, she holds the license and organizes TEDxVinetaWomen, the very first TEDWomen event in Namibia. Beatrice holds a bachelor's in media, specializing in public relations. She is deeply committed to empowering and encouraging women to create their desired lives through training. After completing MWF, Beatrice plans to establish a hub that connects and mentors professionals and entrepreneurs, facilitating the discovery of African solutions for African challenges.
Cherubim Amenyedor
Ghana
Cherubim Mawuli Amenyedor is a digital marketing and transformation strategist with 10 years of experience. He is the head of Digital and Analytics at Utopia Technologies, which provides digital experiential innovation solutions to small and medium enterprises. He holds a master’s in marketing strategy from the University of Ghana and a master’s in digital marketing from Robert Gordon University. In 2017, Cherubim won the Ghana Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge (now Komseko) as a co-founder of the Ho Node Hub project. He is the founder and president of Strategic Imperative, an organization that provides digital transformation interventions to academia and industry to unlock Africa’s potential in the digital economy. Cherubim is a 2020-2021 Chevening Scholar and serves as the public relations officer of Chevening Alumni Ghana. He is also a 2018 Young Diplomats of Ghana Alumnus. Upon completing MWF, Cherubim aims to continue developing private-sector and government-led impact initiatives to digitally transform local small and medium businesses.
Edson Zau
Angola
Edson Zau has over four years of experience in leadership and management. He works as an assistant key account manager at Advanced Maritime Transports, a leading provider of logistics and supply chain solutions for Angola's oil and gas industry. Additionally, Edson serves as a project manager at Mobile Money, an ambitious startup that revolutionizes financial transactions and promotes financial inclusion. He also acts as an ambassador for Help Me Helder Filipe Training and Consulting, a global business mentorship and consulting movement that has empowered hundreds of people by unlocking their mindset, providing clarity about their mission, and guiding them to monetize their ideas and achieve financial well-being and independence. Edson is actively involved as a volunteer employment consultant and business mentor for young people. With a bachelor's in business administration and marketing, Edson is passionate about creating new business opportunities and improving his country's leadership and management practices. After completing MWF, Edson plans to shift the current business leadership paradigm in Angola.
Fungai Nyaungwa
Zimbabwe
Fungai is an investment professional with nearly a decade of experience in private equity, investment analysis, management, and transaction advisory. She is passionate about engineering financial assets and creating investment products that preserve value and build wealth. Fungi works as a portfolio manager for an asset management firm, overseeing a $30 million real estate portfolio on behalf of institutional investors. She holds a master of science degree in investment banking and capital markets and a master's in business administration. Through MWF, Fungai aims to deepen her knowledge in business and entrepreneurship, with a particular focus on sustainable finance and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance). She also hopes to expand her network for the development and implementation of innovative investment solutions, as well as the exploration of investment opportunities across the region.
Gessel Koulakoumouna
Republic of the Congo
Gessel Koulakoumouna has over five years of experience in administrative management. Gessel serves as the administrative and financial director at l'Institut de Gestion et de Développement Economique (IGDE), a private university specializing in management, economics, and accounting. In addition to his role at IGDE, Gessel is the founder and general manager of Twéndé Services, which offers various services, including construction, maintenance, transport, and security. He has also volunteered at the FIFA World Cup in South Africa. Gessel holds a masters in electrical engineering and is pursuing a doctoral degree in business administration. As an entrepreneur, Gessel is deeply committed to creating job opportunities in the Republic of Congo. Upon completing MWF, his goal is to position his company as a national service delivery leader and support IGDE in providing high-quality education to its students.
Jean Hugues Levry
Côte d'Ivoire
Jean Hugues Levry has over 10 years of experience in consulting. He is the Head of the Department of Coordination and Monitoring of Risk and Compliance at Orange Money Compliance Expertise Center. In this role, he focuses on governance, reorganization, internal control frameworks, compliance, and riskrelated subjects for Orange Group in 12 African countries. Jean Hugues has been volunteering for the Rotary for 12 years and served as the President of the Rotaract club in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, from 2015 to 2016 (Rotaract is a Rotary leadership program designed for young people). With a master's degree in Auditing, a professional certification in Digital Money, an executive certificate in Strategy from HEC Paris, and an anti-money laundering specialist certification, Jean Hugues is well-equipped to contribute to his field. He is motivated to enhance his leadership and entrepreneurship skills to foster social and economic development within his community. After completing MWF, Jean Hugues plans to promote the benefits of the Young African Leaders Initiative to young people, utilize his network to support volunteer organizations and establish a company to develop innovative ideas and create economic opportunities for his local community.
Kafula Mutale-Kutontonkanya
Zambia
Kafula Mutale brings 10 years of experience in business development and corporate finance. Kafula is program lead for local business development at First Quantum Minerals Trident Limited, one of Zambia's leading mining companies. In this role, Kafula primarily focuses on nurturing small-scale enterprises and transforming them into investor-ready organizations by providing comprehensive business development services. In addition to her corporate role, Kafula is a co-owner of Bridal Galore Zambia, a bridal store specializing in bridal wear and related accessories. Kafula holds a bachelor's in banking and finance and an MBA in entrepreneurship. Her strong drive and motivation inspire her to assume strategic leadership positions in business. Upon completing MWF, Kafula plans to leverage her newly acquired networks, knowledge, and skills to contribute further to her country's economic development.
Limpho Ntoanyane
Lesotho
Limpho Ntoanyane is an experienced nutritionist with a background in managing acute malnutrition, nutritional counseling, and therapeutic diet planning. She founded Natural Care, a company focusing on nutrition coaching and producing various products, including indigenous fruit and herb teas, syrups, and healthy powders. Natural Care also creates cosmetics infused with raw goat milk and fruits like rose hip, blackberries, and pomegranate. Limpho holds a bachelor's in nutrition from the National University of Lesotho and is dedicated to improving public health, reducing food insecurity, and raising awareness about preventable diseases through volunteering and talk radio. Natural Care aims to produce chemical-free health foods and expand its influence by promoting healthy eating, behavioral changes, and lifestyle modifications. Her future plans include establishing a center for nutritional assessment, coaching, and showcasing Natural Care products.
Moussa Hubert Ouologuem
Mali
Moussa Hubert Ouologuem has nearly 15 years of experience in training, communication, and internet technology. He serves as the chief executive of Groupe XpertPro, focusing on training and supporting companies. Moussa is also the founder of Expert'Labs Mali, a startup incubator that supports young entrepreneurs in creating and developing their businesses. Moussa also holds the honorary position of President at Club 365, an organization dedicated to taking action for positive change in Africa. Moussa holds a master's in computer science applied to business management. He is deeply committed to combating unemployment and creating decent job opportunities for all Africans by promoting entrepreneurship. Upon completing MWF, Moussa plans to organize a series of conferences across Mali to promote entrepreneurship. He aspires to establish the first entrepreneurship and business school in Mali to expand this initiative to all 52 African countries.
Nnanna John
Nigeria
Nnanna John has over eight years of experience in technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Currently, Nnanna is the co-founder and chief executive officer of RAD5 Tech Hub, where he assists early-stage entrepreneurs in bringing their ideas to market, achieving product-market fit, and scaling rapidly. Through RAD5 Tech Hub, Nnanna supports six startups in building sustainable businesses, creating job opportunities, and reducing talent migration and startup failures. He is well-known for his efforts in promoting technology within his community by establishing and nurturing technology communities such as Google Developer Group Aba, Facebook Developer Circle Aba, and TeenHack. Nnanna holds a degree in computer science and is motivated to help innovators and entrepreneurs succeed. Upon completing MWF, Nnanna plans to create job opportunities for 50,000 people by empowering approximately 50 innovators and entrepreneurs to build transgenerational businesses and startups by 2025.
Nontuthuzelo Sisale
Zimbabwe
Nontuthuzelo Sisale is a microfinance practitioner with a decade of experience. She manages the Southern region for Homelink Finance, a subsidiary of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe. She is deeply passionate about community development and addressing issues such as access to education, access to finance for women-led businesses, digital literacy, and access to clean and renewable energy. Nontuthuzelo holds a master of business administration from Solusi University and a certificate in microfinance and entrepreneurship from the National University of Science and Technology. As an advocate for empowering minority groups through microfinance, she delivers financial literacy courses and training to these communities. In 2014, Nontuthuzelo was named Miss Earth Air Zimbabwe in 2014 and is dedicated to providing sustainable and renewable energy solutions to areas without access to power. She also volunteers as a motivational blogger for Girl Grandeur, a social platform that empowers girls. After completing MWF, Nontuthuzelo plans to expand her support to the groups she currently works with. She also aspires to become a development finance consultant specializing in harnessing microfinance as a tool for poverty alleviation.
Olivia Bleoue
Côte d'Ivoire
Olivia Bleoue is a digital marketing expert with over 10 years of experience in graphic design and communication. She founded Gousto Agency, a digital marketing company helping restaurants and hotels leverage online platforms to increase visibility, attract customers, and drive revenue. Olivia is an entrepreneur at heart who is passionate about women’s empowerment, the development of the African Continent, and the luxury hospitality industry. Born in France to an Ivorian father and a French mother, Olivia is a multicultural woman with a bachelor’s in marketing. Since she relocated to Côte d’Ivoire, Olivia has volunteered in several NGOs focused on children’s literacy and female leadership. Upon completing MWF, Olivia wants to change the perception of Sub-Saharan Africa by supporting young local entrepreneurs and highlighting African cultures through tourism.
Risala Mureth
Tanzania
Risala Mureth has over six years of experience in education and the environment. Risala co-founded Change for Future in Arusha, Tanzania, where she focuses on empowering young girls through STEM education and raising awareness about environmental conservation. Risala has been involved with Let Them Learn, an education project funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development, which raises awareness about gender-based violence and ensures a safe school environment for girls. Risala has also worked with Fruvase, a project under the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology, where she provided environmental education and worked towards ensuring safe and clean water in Arusha communities. With a master's in environmental science and engineering, Risala is driven by her passion for reducing poverty, empowering women, and ending gender-based violence. After completing MWF, Risala plans to start a channel to raise awareness about gender-based violence and ways to end it. She also intends to optimize water systems to provide safe and clean water.
Samuel J. Kpartor
Liberia
Samuel J. Kpartor has over 10 years of experience in business and youth development. He serves as the secretary-general at the Consortium of Business Development Service Providers of Liberia, where he works to foster lasting synergy among local service providers. Samuel also holds the national program manager position at the Federation of Liberian Youth. Samuel received training from the UNLEASH Innovation Lab at the National University of Singapore, equipping him with the skills to help countries achieve their sustainable development goals. He also worked as a technical consultant at the World Bank country office in Liberia, contributing to developing the Youth Empowerment Zone— a platform that empowers Liberian youth to access information about opportunities. Furthermore, Samuel is a certified trainer for the International Finance Corporation's Business Edge, the African Development Bank, and the U.S. Agency for International Development. He is the chief executive officer and co-founder of Kpatawee Media Group—a startup dedicated to combating fake news and providing accurate, informative, and entertaining content. Upon completing MWF, Samuel intends to continue leveraging his businesses to create positive and lasting change in Liberia. He also plans to advocate for the rights of youth to receive a high-quality education, access decent employment, and have equal opportunities.
Simbarashe Murondoti
Zimbabwe
Simbarashe Murondoti has five years of experience as a registered legal practitioner in Zimbabwe. He currently holds the position of senior partner at Absolom Attorneys, a renowned corporate law practice. Simbarashe has successfully led numerous complex multimillion-dollar investment disputes and transactions throughout his career. In addition to his legal expertise, he serves as the chair of the Zimbabwe German Society and has been honored with multiple awards in business, public speaking, and legal practice. Simbarashe firmly believes in the power of the law as a tool for positive change in the world. After completing MWF, he aims to utilize technology to develop alternative business models in legal practice. His vision is to democratize access to justice by leveraging technology and innovative approaches.
Sokhna Laye Diop
Senegal
Sokhna Laye Diop has over eight years of experience in auditing and works as a manager at Deloitte, focusing on driving projects related to economic growth by supporting initiatives for small and medium-sized entrepreneurs. In addition to her professional role, Sokhna actively engages in social impact through her involvement with Action for Change. She advocates for children's education and women's economic empowerment by promoting civic engagement through volunteering. She has also launched Boost & Learn for Her, a program dedicated to supporting women and young girls in launching their businesses and empowering them to create a better future for themselves and their communities. Sokhna is passionate about returning to the basics by promoting the processing of local products. She mobilizes courageous and dedicated women in the Senegalese food industry to reduce unemployment and foster economic growth. She holds a finance department management control and internal audit degree from IAE Bordeaux and a postgraduate degree in business administration and finance from Ecole Supérieure Polytechnique Dakar. Upon completing MWF, Sokhna plans to share her knowledge with her community by implementing new projects and expanding their reach beyond Senegal to benefit communities across Africa.
Testimony Asiagwu
Nigeria
Testimony Asiagwu has nearly 10 years of experience in information, communication, and education technology. He serves as the chief executive officer at BIGT InfoTech Solutions Limited, focusing on bridging the digital skills gap and empowering the youth of the Niger Delta region through digital skills training. Testimony is the pioneer of the Robotics4kids Africa Initiative, which aims to provide affordable STEM and robotics training to schools and teachers in his community. He holds an executive master of business administration from Quantic School of Business and Technology and a bachelor’s in chemical engineering from Obafemi Awolowo University. Testimony is committed to reducing skills gaps and empowering the next generation. Upon completing MWF, Testimony plans to scale his Robotics4kids Africa Initiative and develop more sustainable ways to bridge the digital skills gap in Africa.
Tlou Arthur Mahlangu
South Africa
Tlou Arthur Mahlangu's eclectic work culminates seven years in the fast-moving consumer goods sector, combined with 20 years of exposure to entrepreneurship through family businesses. Arthur is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of BizTweak, a data company based in Johannesburg, South Africa. His focus is on centralizing data on microenterprises and small businesses across Africa. Arthur participated in the Leaders Learn program at Henley Business School and holds a food science and technology diploma. He is deeply committed to reducing the rate of startup failure for microenterprises and small businesses. Upon completing MWF, Arthur plans to expand the scope of his business to other territories and establish global entrepreneurship ecosystem networks.
Toyin Olufon
Nigeria
Oluwatoyin "Toyin" Olufon brings more than 10 years of experience in the accounting and finance industry. Toyin serves as the principal consultant at Lefort Consulting and is the founder of The Techy Accountant, a globally recognized initiative of the Lefort Foundation dedicated to empowering finance professionals at all stages of their careers through practical learning, shared knowledge, and cutting-edge mentoring. Toyin is an associate member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (United Kingdom), the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, and the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria. She holds certification as a digital innovation expert in finance and is deeply committed to upskilling finance professionals across Africa. Upon completing MWF, Toyin plans to establish a specialized, technology-oriented university that equips the next generation of accountants and finance professionals with the necessary skills to thrive in the 21st-century global economy.
Tutashalesa Mulunda
Zambia
Tutashalesa Mulunda has over five years of experience in technology startups, with a strong focus on community-driven innovations with a positive socioeconomic impact. Tutashalesa serves as the director at Tuta Technologies, where he develops innovative projects, including Build App, a crowdfunding platform that facilitates financial support for innovative initiatives. Tutashalesa has also served as a director of Pathfinders, a community-based youth club where he mentors and teaches young people life skills and basic business trades. With a bachelor's degree in production and operations management, Tutashalesa is passionate about positively impacting communities and supporting local businesses through entrepreneurship and innovative technology solutions. After completing MWF, Tutashalesa aims to expand the reach of Tuta Technologies to more communities and launch initiatives that foster youth innovation and entrepreneurship, including establishing a maker space that enables young people to launch progressive ideas in business and technology.
Uju Onyekachi
Nigeria
Uju Onyekachi has been working in EdTech for more than a decade. She currently serves as the chief executive of Genesis Home Tutors, an educational organization that connects clients all over Nigeria with professional tutors. Uju is also a co-founder of iWoman Connect, a non-governmental organization dedicated to empowering women with capacity-building knowledge. Uju holds a bachelor's degree in botany and a postgraduate diploma in educational psychology. Her commitment to bringing quality and innovative education to Nigeria stems from her passion and expertise as an educator. Upon completing MWF, Uju plans to return to Nigeria and make education more accessible to learners, regardless of location or circumstances. Her vision includes expanding Genesis Home Tutors to reach every African community and increasing access to quality education.
Yacine Boubacar Djibo
Niger
Yacine Boubacar Djibo works as a contract and legal assistant at WAPCO-Niger, focusing on ensuring the company’s compliance with local laws and policies. In addition to his professional role, Yacine has actively contributed to various associations to guide and assist Nigerian students studying abroad, promote Nigerian culture internationally, foster unity and empathy among Nigeriens, and support Niger’s vulnerable populations, particularly orphans. In recognition of his dedication, Yacine was named the Best Employee of the Year by WAPCO-Niger in 2022. Yacine holds a bachelor’s in economics and is committed to playing a role in development by actively participating in the economy through production. He recognizes the need to generate more employment opportunities for rural youth and strongly believes in the motto, “The change we seek must start with us.” Upon completing MWF, Yacine plans to use his knowledge to establish a sustainable farming business that employs hundreds of people, focusing on youth empowerment.