Fellows - Cohort 2

Founder & Executive Director of SINA Loketa (SINAL)

Sylvain Himbana is the Founder and Executive Director of SINA Loketa (SINAL), a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering vulnerable refugees and marginalized youth in Uganda. Driven by a strong foundation in social work, including certification from the University of Utah, Sylvain’s journey into social entrepreneurship has been shaped by hands-on experience and education. Over the past three years, he has further refined his skills at the Social Innovation Academy, gaining valuable insights into fostering impactful change within communities.

Inspired by the challenges he witnessed in the Bidi Bidi Refugee Settlement, Sylvain launched the Startup Lab initiative to equip young entrepreneurs with essential skills in business development, sustainable farming, and market research. To date, SINA Loketa has empowered over 240 young individuals, helping them build sustainable livelihoods that promote economic resilience and hope within their communities. His commitment to creating opportunities for marginalized youth has been recognized through numerous accolades, including being named a UNHCR Fellow in 2020, receiving the UNHCR Innovation Award in 2018, and serving as a refugee expert at the Global Refugee Forum (GRF) in Geneva in 2023. In 2023, Sylvain was also honored with the Social Impact Award for his transformative contributions to youth empowerment.

As an active member of the Ashoka Everywhere Academy, Sylvain connects with changemakers worldwide, continually expanding his approach to social entrepreneurship. His vision is to nurture the next generation of leaders and create an inclusive ecosystem where innovation and collaboration flourish, transforming challenges into opportunities for lasting impact. Committed to turning vision into action, Sylvain remains focused on building a future where young people thrive in their entrepreneurial pursuits, fostering resilience and progress within their communities.

CEO – Attieke Love

Grace Victoire Bogui is an Ivorian refugee based in Ghana and the CEO of Attieke Love, a restaurant and kitchen business dedicated to bringing authentic African cuisine to the community. With a strong background in law and community service, Grace has held diverse roles, including as a court clerk for Ghana’s judicial service, a life planner at Enterprise Life Insurance Company, a French teacher at Sunnyside International School, and an intern at the law firm Maccarthy and Associates. As an AMAHORO Fellow, she continues to combine her legal knowledge and entrepreneurial spirit to uplift her community and advocate for refugee rights.

Grace’s leadership journey includes serving as Vice President of DAFI Scholarship Scholars (2021-2022), where she contributed to the Albert Einstein scholarship program supporting refugees. She has also held the role of legal secretary and treasurer for the Wisconsin International Students Association and is an executive member of the New Breed Association. Her dedication to her community extends to her volunteer work with the UNHCR and the Christian Council, where she actively participates in donation drives for refugees and students in camps.

Holding an LLB in Human Rights Law from Wisconsin International University College and a Baccalaureate in French from Saint Pierre Claver, Grace is passionate about advocating for the rights of women and children. Her goal is to expand Attieke Love to create employment opportunities for refugees in Ghana and beyond, with a vision to support young refugee girls in achieving self-sufficiency and breaking cycles of vulnerability. With over four years of experience in both her business and community service, she is determined to reduce unemployment among young refugees and empower them with opportunities for a brighter future. Connect with Grace to learn more about her inspiring journey and mission.

 Co-Founder – Waste to SafeNets Venture (WSNV)

Agwuna Favour Obianuju is a pharmacist driven by a passion to enhance global health and well-being through research and creative solutions. With over four years of experience in health volunteerism and advocacy, Favour is the Co-Founder of Waste to SafeNets Venture (WSNV), an organization dedicated to addressing Africa’s malaria challenge through waste recycling and management. Her commitment to Sustainable Development Goals 3 and 13—Good Health and Well-being, and Climate Action—positions her as an invaluable asset to the WSNV team, as she works to bring sustainable health solutions to her community.

Favour’s achievements are both numerous and impactful. She was honored with the Most Intellectual Student Award from the National Association of Dunukofia Students in 2021 and earned the Under 25 She Inspires Women Award (SIWA), establishing her as a role model for young people. In 2022, Favour won the prestigious Innovative Health Competition for Young People in Nigeria, where she presented a solution to tackle pressing healthcare challenges, especially malaria, the leading cause of death in her community and nationwide. Her innovative approach to health challenges has garnered recognition and further fueled her commitment to impactful health solutions.

With a vision to serve her community and nation as a pharmacist dedicated to humanity, Favour’s ultimate goal is to contribute meaningfully to healthcare improvement across Nigeria. Her dedication to global health, sustainable development, and community well-being underscores her drive to create lasting change through her work and advocacy.

Co-Founder & Executive Director – Kivu Society Corporation (KSC)

Amos Kwizera is a dedicated advocate for human rights, specializing in refugee rights, migrant support, and disability inclusion. He holds a Master’s degree in Human Rights and Humanitarian Action from the Paris School of International Affairs at SciencesPo, Paris. Amos’s passion for this work stems from his personal experience as a refugee for over 10 years and the loss of his sister due to lack of access to healthcare. With over six years of experience, he has served Internally Displaced People and refugees from various countries, including Congo, Burundi, Rwanda, South Sudan, and Somalia, working tirelessly to improve their quality of life.

Amos is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Kivu Society Corporation (KSC), an organization in Eastern DRC dedicated to economically empowering local communities by transforming locally sourced produce into soft drinks. Reaching over 500,000 people in Eastern DRC, KSC aims to create 300 jobs by 2025, with 70% reserved for internally displaced persons. Through this initiative, Amos is committed to fostering economic growth and creating opportunities for the most vulnerable populations in the region. In addition to his work at KSC, he co-founded REJEO-rk Enterprise, which focuses on economically empowering refugees through sustainable goat farming.

With a vision for long-term impact, Amos aspires to make KSC one of the leading soft drink producers in the region within the next five years. His dedication to community empowerment, economic resilience, and human rights advocacy underscores his mission to create lasting, positive change for displaced and marginalized communities across Eastern DRC.

Founder & Director – Help the Less Privileged Foundation

Ayuk Peterkings Ayuk is a Cameroonian refugee living in the Adagom refugee settlement in Nigeria. He holds a Master’s Degree in Accounting and is currently studying Strategic Management at Luiss University in Italy. Ayuk has also pursued Refugee and Forced Migration Studies at Oxford University through the RSC pathways, and has completed various training programs, including leadership, advocacy, public speaking organized by UNHCR, and the R-SEAT Geneva Advocacy Training Program for Refugees. Additionally, he has studied public administration. He is the Senate president (Refugee leader) of Adagom Refugee Settlement with 41 communities. 

As the Founder and Director of Help the Less Privileged Foundation, a refugee-led organization, Ayuk is dedicated to advocating for and providing solutions in education and livelihood for refugees and has so far trained 375 Refugee women and Girls in different skills and given starter kits to 25 of them to start-up their own businesses. He is a member of the International Association for Study of Forced Migration (IASFM) research cluster and has served as the theme and content co-lead for the Migration Summit 2023. Ayuk is also part of the organizing committee for the 2024 migration summit and the lead trainer for SOREX-NIGERIA as a social entrepreneurship facilitator. 

Ayuk has been instrumental in advocating for tertiary education access for Cameroonian refugees, he advocated for tertiary education for Refugees in Nigeria by organizing an advocacy meeting with the country representative of UNHCR Nigeria in 2019. He has spoken at international forums such as the RewirED Summit at Expo 2020 in Dubai and the World Higher Education Conference in Barcelona, discussing education pathways for refugees. Ayuk is passionate about creating lasting solutions for education in emergencies and improving the lives and livelihoods of refugees.

Founder – Pathways to Success Learning Center

Beti Mekonen is an International Law student at the University of Pretoria, dedicated to empowering refugees and underserved communities through education and legal advocacy. Originally from Ethiopia, Beti moved to South Africa at the age of ten, and her personal experiences have fueled a deep commitment to supporting those who face the challenges of displacement.

In addition to her studies, Beti is the founder of Pathways to Success Learning Center, an aftercare and tutoring initiative that provides academic support and life skills mentorship to refugee and underserved youth. Through personalized tutoring, homework assistance, and language integration programs, the center helps students succeed academically while offering a safe, nurturing environment for personal growth. The initiative also fosters mentorship, equipping students with essential skills to pursue further education or meaningful careers.

As a student attorney at the University of Pretoria Law Clinic, Beti provides crucial legal assistance to underserved communities, with a particular focus on the rights of refugees. These experiences, alongside her academic roles as an Academic Associate and private tutor, have strengthened her understanding of the legal and educational challenges faced by displaced individuals.

Beti holds a BA in Law (Cum Laude), an LLB, and a degree in Psychology from the University of Pretoria, and she is currently pursuing her Master’s in International Law. Her interdisciplinary background in law and psychology gives her unique insights into the legal and personal challenges refugees face, fueling her commitment to advocate for their rights and well-being.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Beti is an avid reader with a keen interest in true crime.

Founder – Refugee Empowerment Services

Beza Yemisrach Firdu is an Ethiopian refugee and social development advocate based in Cape Town, South Africa. She is currently pursuing her Master’s degree at the Institute of Social Development at the University of the Western Cape, where her research focuses on the challenges faced by social entrepreneurs in promoting social progress. Driven by her commitment to empowering fellow refugees, Beza founded Refugee Empowerment Services in 2023, an initiative that assists Ethiopian refugees in South Africa with securing housing, employment, and educational opportunities, enabling them to become self-reliant and independent.

Through Refugee Empowerment Services, Beza works to connect refugees with essential resources and information for their success, fostering a supportive community where individuals can build their paths to independence. She leads with compassion and kindness, creating a safe space for refugees to seek assistance and build connections. Her approach emphasizes trust, as she listens and offers personalized support to each individual. To enhance the reach of her initiative, Beza also collaborates with local community groups and businesses, broadening the network of support available to refugees.

Looking to the future, Beza envisions expanding her initiative by establishing a community center where refugees can gather, exchange information, and access vocational and language training. Her vision includes offering temporary housing solutions to help refugees transition as they integrate into society. Beza’s dedication to creating opportunities for refugees is grounded in her belief in community empowerment and the transformative power of accessible resources and compassionate support.

Co-founder – Sana Pads

Tracy Yekaghe is a social sustainability strategist and advocate, as well as the co-founder of Sana Pads Limited, a social enterprise focused on promoting sustainable menstrual hygiene and addressing period poverty. Through the production of eco-friendly reusable sanitary pads, Sana Pads provides women and girls with sustainable solutions for managing their menstrual health. Tracy and her team also partner with organizations supporting forcibly displaced women and girls, directly reaching vulnerable communities to improve menstrual health and access to essential products.

As a sociologist with a background in sexual reproductive health and a certified peer education trainer, Tracy is passionate about empowering women and girls with the knowledge they need to manage their menstrual health effectively. Her work extends to advocating for policies that improve access to menstrual hygiene products and education, aiming to create a supportive environment for women and girls to thrive. Tracy’s commitment to social change is reflected in her drive to ensure that menstrual hygiene management is accessible and sustainable for all.

Outside of her professional role, Tracy enjoys reading, engaging in empowering conversations, and traveling. She thrives on connecting with new people, learning continuously, and contributing to economic development, particularly for women and young people across Africa and beyond. Tracy is always eager to collaborate with like-minded individuals and organizations to drive meaningful social change and create lasting impacts in the communities she serves.

Founder – Read South Sudan

Drucilla Adah is a dedicated advocate for education and youth empowerment in South Sudan. She is the co-founder of Gift Boys and the founder of Read South Sudan, initiatives that focus on mentoring young people and fostering a strong reading culture within South Sudanese communities. Through these programs, Drucilla is committed to providing young people with opportunities to develop critical skills and a love for learning, aiming to uplift and empower the next generation.

Currently an International Relations student at the United States International University-Africa, Drucilla is studying under the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. Her academic journey complements her commitment to creating impactful change, equipping her with the skills and knowledge needed to drive educational and social transformation in South Sudan. 

Passionate about service and community, Drucilla is dedicated to reshaping the education landscape for young people in her home country. Her vision is to build a future where South Sudanese youth are equipped with the resources and support needed to pursue their aspirations, develop their potential, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Founder & Executive Director – Action pour le Progrès

Pascal Bahati is the Founder and Executive Director of Action pour le Progrès, a community-based organization dedicated to empowering refugee communities in Kakuma Refugee Camp, Kenya. Originally from DR Congo, Pascal has extensive experience in qualitative research and is deeply committed to initiatives that foster growth and self-reliance within refugee communities. He serves as a Research Associate at Carleton University within the Local Engagement Refugee Research Network and is the Kakuma Site Coordinator for the Refugee Led Research Hub (RLRH) activities, where he leads research and engagement efforts that support refugees.

Pascal’s background includes work with the Kenya Red Cross Society as a Field Officer and with Jesuit Refugee Service as an IT Assistant. He has also collaborated with Jesuit Worldwide Learning and the Refuge Economies project at Oxford University as a Field Coordinator on a longitudinal quantitative research project. With a Diploma in Social Work and a Bachelor’s Degree in Healthcare Management, Pascal has completed the Refugee Studies Centre Pathways course, further enriching his expertise in the field. His commitment to community empowerment is reflected in his proactive approach to research and service within the camp.

Currently, Pascal has been accepted on a partial scholarship to pursue his Master of Science in Project Management at Northeastern University in Portland, USA. His vision is to continue building community-centered initiatives and research efforts that advance the well-being and development of refugee communities. Driven by a passion for service, Pascal’s work is focused on creating lasting positive impact within Kakuma and beyond.

Co-Founder & Program Manager of the Program for Defying Violence Against Women

Byaombe Lumona is a Congolese social justice advocate, currently residing in Kakuma Refugee Camp, Kenya. As the Co-Founder and Program Manager of the Program for Defying Violence Against Women (PRODEVIOW), Byaombe is dedicated to empowering women and girls in the community. His work focuses on providing training in dressmaking, tailoring, and financial literacy, equipping participants with essential skills to foster self-reliance and financial independence.

With a background in journalism and program coordination, Byaombe has contributed to initiatives with the Kakuma Kalobeyei Refugee Initiative Network (KKRIN) and the YALI Regional Leadership Centre EA program. His commitment to social justice and advancing opportunities for women has led him to successfully train over 75 women in financial literacy and 15 young women in tailoring, helping to build their confidence and economic resilience. His leadership in PRODEVIOW is marked by a strong drive to create meaningful change and provide vulnerable groups with tools for sustainable empowerment.

Byaombe holds a diploma in education sciences and an Amala Global Secondary Education Diploma, enhancing his skills in project management and collaboration with humanitarian partners. Always eager to learn and grow, he seeks to connect with mentors who share his commitment to refugee empowerment and sustainable social change, believing that continuous learning and networking are essential to driving long-term impact within his community.

Founder – Black Girl Magic Naturals

Catherine Isaiah is a South Sudanese entrepreneur based in Uganda and the founder of Black Girl Magic Naturals, a business dedicated to producing organic hair and skincare products that empower African women to embrace their heritage. Inspired by her admiration for natural African hair and aware of the harmful effects of chemicals and synthetic products, Catherine launched Black Girl Magic Naturals to provide chemical-free, plant-based alternatives that help African women maintain their natural hair health. Since its inception in 2021, the business has inspired thousands of women across Africa and globally to embrace their natural beauty, boosting confidence and self-esteem through quality products and an engaging social media presence.

Through Black Girl Magic Naturals, Catherine is not only fostering cultural pride but also empowering young African women by offering training programs in entrepreneurship and encouraging them to launch their own ventures. The business currently employs nine people from both refugee and host communities, contributing to economic development in her area. With a substantial social media following—150,000 followers on Facebook, 112,000 on TikTok, and over 4,000 YouTube subscribers—Black Girl Magic Naturals has become a platform for raising awareness on the importance of preserving African heritage. The company exports to over 10 countries, including Canada, the U.S., Australia, Norway, Dubai, and Germany.

Supported by seed funding and training from organizations like African Youth Action Network, the Stanford Entrepreneurship Program, NSSF Hi-Innovators, Jobtech, and more, Catherine is focused on expanding the positive impact of Black Girl Magic Naturals. Her goal is to continue empowering African women to celebrate their heritage while promoting entrepreneurship and economic growth across the continent, creating job opportunities and fostering cultural pride in her community.

Chairperson – Kiryandongo Video Advocate (KVA)

Chanwat James is the Chairperson of Kiryandongo Video Advocate (KVA), a community-based organization in Uganda dedicated to driving social change through video advocacy within the Kiryandongo Refugee Settlement and the surrounding host community. Under Chanwat’s leadership, KVA conducts film screenings and produces advocacy videos that address pressing community issues. The organization is currently empowering refugees and host community members through training programs in four trades: liquid soap production, tailoring, hairdressing, and catering, aimed at enhancing local entrepreneurial skills and fostering self-reliance.

A passionate filmmaker, Chanwat coordinates KVA’s activities in partnership with STEPS, a South African organization that trained KVA in using film as a tool for social impact. Through his work, he combines storytelling and advocacy to highlight challenges faced by his community and inspire meaningful change. His dedication to community upliftment extends beyond his role in KVA, as he is actively involved in local business as a mobile money service provider and owner of an electrical shop in Bweyale town council.

With a deep-rooted passion for electrical work, Chanwat has been performing electrical installations in his community since 2015, using his skills to support local needs and promote safety. His commitment to both social advocacy and economic empowerment underscores his vision of a community where refugees and local residents can thrive, equipped with the tools and knowledge to build sustainable livelihoods.

Founder – Saidia Community Initiative

Conzana Cornelius Mangati is a Sudanese national who has lived in Kenya for over two decades and is deeply committed to empowering young women and girls. Driven by this passion, she founded the Saidia Community Initiative, an organization dedicated to equipping young women and girls with essential knowledge and skills for personal well-being and economic sustainability. Through Saidia, Conzana works to create pathways for women and girls to achieve self-reliance and positively impact their communities.

Currently, Conzana is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Entrepreneurial Leadership with a focus on investment at African Leadership University in Rwanda, a journey that has enriched his understanding of innovative leadership and sustainable development practices. He also holds a diploma in Business Administration from Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, which has provided him with a solid foundation in business principles. In addition to his academic pursuits, Conzana is an alumnus of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Business and Entrepreneurship track, Cohort 54, and serves as a Youth Activities Coordinator for UNHCR in Kakuma, Kenya.

Conzana’s mission is to leverage resources and create opportunities that enable young women and girls to thrive economically. By focusing on practical skills and knowledge, she aims to foster a generation of empowered, self-sufficient women who can contribute meaningfully to their communities and beyond. 

Founder & CEO – UBUCHANGE 

Didier Maliki is a Congolese refugee and social entrepreneur based in Kampala, Uganda, where he leads several impactful initiatives, including Stand For Talent, GreenSpace Recycling Impact, and the Talent Innovation Academy. Having faced numerous challenges as a young refugee since 2015, Didier’s journey has shaped his commitment to creating opportunities for others. His early experiences in Uganda—starting with a teaching job in Kyaka 2 settlement that paid only 50,000 Uganda shillings per month—inspired him to start language programs, helping young people learn French and English. His efforts have led many youths to secure scholarships to Canada through SRP.

In 2023, Didier founded Stand For Talent to address the high unemployment rate among young refugees and host community members, recognizing the incredible talents that were going unnoticed. Stand For Talent provides a platform for these young individuals to showcase their abilities, though challenges like securing venues and fair compensation have made the journey difficult. Motivated by environmental concerns in his community, Didier also established GreenSpace Recycling Impact, an initiative focused on turning plastic waste into sustainable products like plastic timber and tarps. Through GreenSpace, he empowers youth to take action on climate change and promotes eco-friendly practices within his community.

With a high school diploma in Petrochemistry, Didier uses technology and social media to spread his message, raising awareness on environmental issues and advocating for sustainable practices. His goal is to inspire his community to join him in building a cleaner, greener future for the next generation, combining talent promotion with environmental stewardship to create lasting, positive change.

Co-Founder & Operations Lead – Book Drive Store

Esther Kitumaini is the co-founder and operations lead of the Book Drive Store, a comprehensive literacy company dedicated to cultivating a love for reading in children from as young as two years old. A passionate advocate for quality education, Esther believes in the transformative power of early learning and is committed to making educational resources accessible to children regardless of their background. With over five years of experience as a certified Montessori teacher, she focuses on fostering curiosity and a lifelong love for reading in young minds.

Through the Book Drive Store, Esther collaborates with partners like UNICEF Uganda to promote access to 21st-century skills for youth, especially among refugee communities. Her work emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and self-confidence, equipping young people with essential skills for the future. Recently selected as part of the Amahoro Fellowship Program for 2024, Esther’s dedication to her mission continues to grow as she leverages new opportunities to drive positive change in her community.

Esther’s commitment to education is fueled by her vision of a brighter future, where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. She is driven by a deep belief in the power of education to uplift communities and empower the next generation with the tools they need to thrive.

Co-Founder – Communal Responses Initiative

Fatha Mohamed is a student at the United States International University-Africa, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in International Business Administration as a Mastercard Foundation scholar. Passionate about topics like international development, the importance of education, and refugee-inclusive policies, Fatha is dedicated to using her platform to drive meaningful change. Her commitment to leadership and community service is reflected in her role as Vice President of the Mastercard Foundation Scholar Council at USIU-Africa and as Deputy President during her high school years.

Fatha is the co-founder of the Communal Responses Initiative, where Dadaab scholars at USIU-Africa come together annually to fundraise and support development efforts in Dadaab, leveraging their skills and networks to make a positive impact. Her professional experience includes working as an incentive teacher at Hagadera High School and interning with the World University Service of Canada (WUSC), where she supports the DREEM project. These roles have honed her skills in project management, stakeholder coordination, and community engagement.

Outside of her academic and professional pursuits, Fatha enjoys writing poetry, traveling, sports, reading, and volunteering. She is fluent in Somali, English, and Swahili, with proficiency in Arabic, and her diverse experiences have equipped her with strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving abilities. Fatha is committed to creating a positive impact in her community and contributing to a future that supports education, inclusion, and development.

Founder – Engee Collection

Grace, is a social entrepreneur from Nigeria who transformed her experiences into a force for good. Forced to flee her community, Kogi State where she hails from due to devastating attacks by herdsmen, she turned her challenges into opportunities. With a degree in Chemical Engineering from the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Grace transitioned from unemployment to empowerment by founding Engee Collection in 2019. 

Engee Collection provides entrepreneurial education and skills training to young Nigerians, youths, girls and women in underserved communities, focusing on pastry making, sewing, and manufacturing. Today, our startup has a strong foundation, dedicated team, and loyal customer base, serving over 500 customers. Grace has empowered over 200 young Nigerians through her programs, supporting 5 young people with basic and free startup tools to launch their businesses. 

With a mission to scale up and align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Grace is dedicated to creating jobs, stimulating economic growth, and promoting gender equality in Nigeria. Her determination and impact make her a true leader in social entrepreneurship.

Founder of Tech-Femme Algorithms

Achech Joseph Akol is a game developer and full stack developer with a deep commitment to using technology for social good. Born and raised in the Kakuma Refugee Camp, Achech’s journey has been shaped by challenges that fueled her determination to excel in the tech industry. With expertise in both front-end and back-end development, she is skilled in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, C#, and C++, and has experience working with platforms like WordPress, Bootstrap, and e-commerce. Her technical abilities allow him to create dynamic, user-friendly websites and applications that make a difference.

As the founder of Tech-Femme Algorithms, Achech focuses on providing quality tech education and employment opportunities to underrepresented communities, especially refugees and women. She believes in the transformative power of technology and is dedicated to making it accessible to those who need it most. Through her initiative, she aims to break down barriers and empower others to achieve financial independence with skills in programming, game development, and design.

Achech is continuously learning and adapting in the fast-paced tech industry, always seeking ways to contribute more effectively to her community and beyond. Her goal is not only to excel as a developer but also to inspire and uplift others through her work, fostering a future where technology serves as a tool for empowerment and positive change.

Founder –  Global Refugee Basketball Initiative

Lich Gatkoi Puok is a South Sudanese refugee and advocate for youth and refugee empowerment through sports and technology, currently living in Kakuma Refugee Camp. With a background in computer science and expertise in web development, graphic design, and software engineering, Lich graduated with first-class honors in ICT and computer operations. He currently works as a community reporter for Sikika, a DW project, where he uses journalism to amplify voices within his community.

As the founder of the Global Refugee Basketball Initiative, an unregistered community-based organization, Lich leverages basketball as a tool for social change and empowerment, helping young people build confidence and community through sports. He also coordinates the Kakuma Reading Society, a project focused on providing novels and books to youth in the camp, fostering a love for reading and learning. Additionally, Lich serves as the marketing manager for Kakuma Blogging, a social media platform created to give youth a space to share their stories and experiences.

Driven by a passion for sports as a catalyst for change and a belief in technology’s transformative power, Lich is committed to developing sports programs that promote and showcase the talents of young people. His vision is to inspire his community through education, sports, and storytelling, creating opportunities for youth to thrive and contribute to societal growth.

Founder – NEZEZA

Liliane Ingabire is a Rwandan social entrepreneur and creative residing in Kenya, with a strong background in international studies and diplomacy, specializing in international security studies. Passionate about refugee empowerment, social change, and community engagement, Liliane has four years of experience working with community-based organizations (CBOs) to help refugees access primary and secondary education, as well as essential skills in computers and English language. After completing her college studies, she furthered her dedication to refugee advocacy by working as a project coordinator in research and academia, supporting consultancies and conducting research on refugees in Eastern Africa.

Liliane is also the founder of NEZEZA, a social enterprise that combines her love for creativity with her commitment to social impact. NEZEZA is dedicated to empowering creative women within refugee communities by providing opportunities in decor and attire design, offering a platform for economic independence and skill development. Through NEZEZA, Liliane provides employment opportunities and empowers women to build valuable skills, fostering their integration into new communities while celebrating craftsmanship.

Believing deeply in the transformative power of creativity, Liliane aims to support sustainable, high-quality artistry that contributes to both personal and economic growth. Her work through NEZEZA is focused on nurturing talent and promoting independence among women, making a lasting impact within the refugee community and beyond.

Co-Founder – ConnectRefugee

Munguzo Jean is a social innovator and advocate for education and IT improvement for refugees, currently residing in the Nakivale Refugee Settlement in Uganda. He is the co-founder of ConnectRefugee, a mobile app that connects refugees with vital information on services and opportunities, inspired by his own journey from the Democratic Republic of the Congo seven years ago.

In addition to his work with ConnectRefugee, Jean is a trainer with Full-Circle Learning Uganda, a nonprofit that empowers youth to become leaders and problem-solvers. He facilitates teacher training, global learning exchanges, and provides school project grants, scholarships, and crisis aid. Jean also mentors refugees and host communities in online gig work, helping them secure jobs and build skills for economic self-reliance.

Driven by innovation, Jean is committed to using technology and education to create meaningful change and improve lives in his community and beyond.

Co-Founder & Executive Director – Empower HER Initiative (EHI)

Nancy Nyaleso is a visionary social entrepreneur committed to reducing inequalities and ensuring that all women and girls have access to menstrual health products whenever needed. She is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Empower HER Initiative (EHI), a Kenya-based organization dedicated to empowering women and girls as agents of social and economic change. Through leadership development, entrepreneurship, business skills training, and targeted programs for women’s empowerment and menstrual health, EHI aims to foster transformative change across communities.

Under Nancy’s guidance, Empower HER has pioneered menstrual equity in Kenya through comprehensive initiatives, including the local manufacturing of period products, menstrual health education, and the launch of the groundbreaking Menstrual Health e-wallet, “Dignify.” As the first tool of its kind globally, Dignify allows menstruators to access their preferred period products conveniently. Through this innovation, Empower HER has distributed over 12,073 period products to women and girls from low-income backgrounds, providing flexible payment options starting at just 0.05 USD per day, redeemable via payment-enabled bracelets or smart cards. Nancy’s leadership has also driven job creation at Empower HER’s production facilities and throughout its supply chain, fostering partnerships with vendors, menstrual health educators, and sales professionals.

Nancy holds a Bachelor of Science in Global Health and is currently pursuing a Master of Science in International Development at the University of Edinburgh. Her contributions to menstrual equity and women’s empowerment have earned her numerous international and local accolades, recognizing her dedication to creating a world where every woman and girl can access the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

Founder – The Kamp

Nira Ismail is a passionate journalist and advocate for refugee rights, currently residing in Kakuma, Kenya. With a deep-rooted interest in media from a young age, Nira pursued her passion by studying communication and media, earning a Diploma from Kenyatta University. She has furthered her expertise through numerous journalistic training programs with DW Akademie, specializing in areas such as gender mainstreaming and conflict-sensitive reporting.

Nira honed her journalism skills as a community reporter at Sikika, a radio project that allowed her to develop a nuanced approach to storytelling. She now serves as the Communication Officer at Resilience Action International, a leading refugee-led organization in Kakuma. Her advocacy work has taken her to prominent forums, including the Adolescent Girls and Young Women 2023 Summit hosted by the She Leads consortium, and the 2024 Global Media Forum, where she represented Sikika and shared insights from the refugee perspective.

Her proudest achievement is founding The Kamp, an initiative dedicated to advocating for refugee rights, amplifying refugee stories, and empowering youth to express themselves through social media. Nira’s commitment to refugee advocacy drives her ambition to be a force for change, using her voice to uplift and empower her community.

Founder & Managing Director – ZONIMA SMC LIMITED

Niyonzima Diyodon is a Congolese entrepreneur  residing in Kyangwali Refugee Settlement, Uganda. He is the Founder and Managing Director of ZONIMA SMC LIMITED, a company dedicated to providing money lending services, financial literacy education, and business scaling support for refugees within the settlement. Through his work, Niyonzima is committed to empowering the refugee community with essential financial skills and opportunities to foster economic self-reliance.

Currently pursuing a Diploma in Accounting and Finance, Niyonzima combines his academic knowledge with his passion for financial empowerment to address the unique challenges faced by refugees in accessing financial resources and education. His vision is to create a more financially knowledgeable community, where individuals have the tools and support needed to build sustainable livelihoods.

Niyonzima’s dedication to promoting financial literacy and business growth among refugees drives his work at ZONIMA SMC LIMITED, where he strives to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those around him. His goal is to continue expanding financial access and knowledge, fostering independence and economic growth within the refugee community.

Founder –  Mental Health Family

Nyibol Racheal is a dedicated mental health advocate and the founder of Mental Health Family, a nonprofit organization focused on providing essential mental health support to refugee women and young people. Her organization addresses critical issues such as PTSD, depression, and anxiety, particularly among individuals who have experienced forced displacement, sexual violence, and gender-based violence. Nyibol’s work is rooted in her commitment to empowering refugees with the resources and support needed to navigate mental health challenges.

Beyond her advocacy work, Nyibol is a published author and content creator who uses various platforms to raise awareness about mental health. She hosts a YouTube channel, Mental Health with Nyibol, where she engages young people with lived mental health experiences and features experts who offer valuable coping strategies. Through podcasts and documentaries, Nyibol provides education and fosters open conversations about mental health, aiming to break the stigma and create a supportive community.

Nyibol’s passion for mental health advocacy is evident in her multifaceted approach to outreach and education. Her dedication to improving mental health awareness and support within refugee communities drives her mission to create lasting change and provide a voice for those affected by mental health issues.

Co-Founder – Easy FitGang

Rita Namurembe Brown is a Ugandan social worker, certified yoga instructor, and passionate advocate for physical and mental wellness based in Kakuma Refugee Camp, Kenya. Having lived in Kakuma since 2000, Rita completed her primary, secondary, and tertiary education within the camp, earning a diploma in Social Work from Regis University and an Associate of Arts degree in Business Administration from the University of Southern New Hampshire. She is now preparing to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Public Administration.

As a 200-hour certified yoga instructor, Rita is dedicated to teaching yoga both online and onsite to individuals, groups, and organizations, delivering impactful yoga practices that support flexibility, physical fitness, stress relief, and active lifestyles. In 2020, she co-founded Easy FitGang, a refugee-led social enterprise in Kakuma that empowers youth by providing skills and opportunities through team-building, sports, fitness, and arts programs. The organization aims to be a bridge to opportunities for young people, fostering self-reliance and promoting holistic wellness.

Rita’s work has been featured in platforms like sportanddev.org, newsvibesofindia.com, the United Nations, and UNHCR. Her journey as a lifelong learner in movement practices, including Power Vinyasa, continues to inform her approach to yoga and wellness. She is passionate about sharing the transformative power of yoga and helping others find balance and resilience through meaningful practices, dedicated to shining light through yoga in her community and beyond.

Founder – TechniKam

Saido Omar is a Somali refugee and software engineer living in Kakuma Refugee Camp, with a strong dedication to advancing women in tech. Holding a diploma in IT from AkiraChix and certifications in peacebuilding and mediation from the Weinstein International Foundation, Saido’s journey into technology revealed a critical gap in gender representation in Kakuma, where less than 3% of women are involved in tech or hold leadership roles. This realization inspired her to establish TechniKam, an initiative focused on equipping young girls with high-quality STEM education and creating job opportunities for underserved communities, especially women and refugees. Through TechniKam, Saido aims to empower women with software engineering skills, promoting inclusion and career opportunities in tech for women in Kakuma.

Empowering women in STEM is at the heart of Saido’s mission, and she is deeply passionate about closing the gender gap in technology. Driven by a vision of social justice and women’s rights, she also advocates for sports as a force for change, aspiring to establish a basketball academy to support young women athletes. In her work with Build Up Kakuma, Saido has mobilized and mentored over 60 participants, organized community game nights, and led radio listening groups, gaining hands-on facilitation experience and fostering community engagement. Her role involved supporting participants in meeting program goals and assessing impact through data collection.

As a community mobilizer, Saido is also committed to educating young girls on menstrual hygiene, raising awareness about gender-based violence, and providing digital empowerment training. Her dedication to gender equality in STEM, coupled with her advocacy for women in marginalized communities, fuels her goal to create a more inclusive and equal society where technology and education serve as tools for empowerment and social change.

Founder –  SAVANNAH Innovation Labs

Yousif Yahya is the founder of SAVANNAH Innovation Labs, where he advises, incubates, and accelerates African startups by leveraging his extensive network and experience as a venture partner at African Renaissance Partners, LLC. Driven by a passion for connecting African entrepreneurs with global investors and markets, Yousif is dedicated to creating significant social and economic impact across the continent.

With a background in international relations and affairs, specializing in MENA studies, Yousif possesses the skills and insights to navigate Africa’s complex geopolitical landscape. His work includes published contributions on East African geopolitics, as well as experience in pilot programs and business development initiatives in Sudan. Yousif holds a Venture Capital Certification from UC Berkeley and has completed financial modeling and valuation training from the Investment Banking Institute.

Fluent in Arabic and English, Yousif is committed to supporting Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and fostering cross-continental partnerships that drive innovation and growth. His work at SAVANNAH Innovation Labs reflects his dedication to empowering startups and unlocking opportunities for Africa on the global stage.

Team Leader at Aider Refugee Initiative

Ismail Hussein Ismail, also known as Ismail Saxafi, is a community development and humanitarian professional with over six years of experience in refugee advocacy, mental health counseling, and youth leadership. As Team Leader of the Aider Refugee Initiative, Ismail is dedicated to providing refugees with reliable and accurate information to empower them to make informed decisions. His background includes key roles such as Moderator on the IRC Uganda’s Rule of Law Signpost Project and Tracing Assistant for the International Committee of the Red Cross, where he successfully reconnected over 355 individuals with their families around the world.

Ismail’s leadership journey began in 2017 when he founded the Aider Refugee Initiative to address the critical need for accessible information among refugee communities. Since then, he has served in various leadership roles, including Team Leader for Refugee Youth Volunteers in Uganda and as an African Union Youth Sub Ambassador. These roles have solidified his commitment to social justice, refugee rights, and youth empowerment, allowing him to lead impactful initiatives that support and uplift vulnerable communities.

Currently pursuing a Master’s in Project Planning and Management at Kampala International University, Ismail holds a Bachelor’s degree in Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution from the Islamic Call University in Uganda. He has also completed several certifications, including in Migration Law (UCLouvain), Quantitative and Qualitative Research (National University of Singapore), Project Management (University System of Maryland), and International Refugee Studies (Oxford University Refugee Studies Centre).