Meet The Mentors

With 20+ years in HR and leadership, I’ve driven growth through talent development and strategy. At Montego Group, I aligned HR practices with business goals, while mentoring future leaders at Africa Retail Academy. In recent years, I’ve also focused on strategic sales referrals, project financing, and educational advocacy—staying relevant and adding value to those I influence.

Oluwatosin “Jedi” Ayo, The Well Fed Comedian, is a seasoned Nigerian entertainer, filmmaker, and MC known for his clean, family-friendly comedy. Since 1999, he has performed globally, hosted the LWKMD Comedy Tour, and released several comedy specials and a music album. Jedi is also a media advocate for humanitarian causes, recognized as a Global Media ICON for Change. He mentors young talents and currently offers entertainment consulting and film production services.

Mr. Femi Olaiya is a versatile entrepreneur with active ventures across multiple industries. His business interests span media and advertising, digital signage, audiovisual technology, networking solutions, agriculture and food processing, content marketing, news publishing, PR and marketing communications, finance, and solar power engineering. With a strong presence in both tech-driven and traditional sectors, he continues to drive innovation and impact through diverse, solution-focused enterprises.

Oluyinka Davids is a Nigerian-American filmmaker known for powerful films and documentaries that promote social change and cultural awareness. With nearly 20 years of experience, his works like Stay and Perception: The Nigerian Narrative highlight African stories and challenge stereotypes. He’s received global recognition, including a U.S. Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award. Through his storytelling, he connects cultures and empowers the black narrative on a global stage.

Simisola Salami is a Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner (CPRP), CFRP, and CAMS II specialist with over five years of experience supporting individuals on their mental health recovery journeys. She works closely with a team of counselors to deliver client-centered, evidence-based care. Her approach blends holistic recovery strategies, goal setting, and skills training with a strong focus on ethics, multicultural sensitivity, and measurable outcomes. Salami is dedicated to ongoing learning and using best practices to empower clients toward lasting wellness and community integration.

Nnana is a management consultant and certified Business Development Service Provider with extensive experience supporting SMEs and development organizations across Africa. He specializes in strategy, investment banking, MSME development, agriculture, and financial advisory, with a focus on empowering underserved communities and early-stage businesses. He mentors through the IFC She Wins Africa Program, volunteers with the UN, and holds a degree in Banking and Finance from Lagos State University and an MBA from the University of the People, USA. He is currently pursuing PMP certification.

Kemi Oyegbesan is a Chartered Accountant, mentor, coach, counsellor, and author with over 26 years of professional experience. After a successful corporate career with firms like KPMG and Ecobank, she transitioned in 2020 to focus fully on people development, helping individuals lead with clarity and thrive with purpose. She is the founder of Thriving in the Storm, a mentoring platform that supports people through life’s challenges. Through coaching, counselling, speaking, and authorship, Kemi empowers others with tools for transformation, emotional wellness, and growth. Her work is grounded in faith, strategic thinking, and a deep commitment to personal development.

Okechukwu Okagbue is a seasoned real estate professional and graduate of Estate Management from Abia State University. With hands-on experience from top firms like Alagbe & Partners, Okoro & Partners, and Seaview Properties, he played a key role in landmark projects, including the valuation of Ikoyi Club 1938. A serial entrepreneur, life coach, and management consultant, he is the MD/CEO of Abbellire Property Limited and Head of Community at Gosgem Ltd. Passionate about faith, family, and purpose, he lives in Lagos with his wife Uju Stephanie and their two sons, Ivan and Sean.

John Madayese (“JM”) is a forward-thinking strategy and digital transformation leader with nearly a decade of experience spanning financial services, technology, telecommunications, and the public sector. As the Head of Digital Transformation at a multinational financial institution, he has successfully spearheaded enterprise-wide initiatives that drive operational excellence, enhance business growth, and position organizations for long-term success leveraging technology. Previously, John has held key positions at PwC Strategy& as a Manager and at KPMG Nigeria as a Senior Consultant, where he played an instrumental role in advising C-suite executives and executing transformative strategies for leading organisations across diverse industries.

I am a marketing strategist focused on performance, automation, and AI-driven growth. Over the past nine years, I’ve worked across digital marketing, business strategy, and product infrastructure, connecting fragmented efforts into structured systems that scale. My work spans marketing automation, campaign architecture, data analysis, go-to-market strategy, and growth execution. I build systems that connect marketing and product to tangible results, helping organizations move from reactive tactics to proactive, data-backed decision making.

Folake Babafemi is a visionary school leader with nearly a decade of experience in educational administration and a strong background in Computer Information Systems. As the Director of New World Elementary School, Ikeja, Lagos, she has successfully integrated technology into the learning environment, enhancing operational efficiency and academic engagement. Under her leadership, the West African Quality Education Awards recognised the school as the ‘Most Innovative School of 2022’ in West Africa.

Ibrahim Halidu is a seasoned tech business developer, certified startup coach, and passionate advocate for the SDGs. Widely recognized for empowering women-led SMEs and youth-driven startups across Africa, he is known as the “dot-connector” for his role in linking changemakers and support organizations to deliver high-impact initiatives. As Program Coordinator at CEED Ghana, he has led key projects like the Digital Divide Project and the Thought Leaders Collaborative, promoting digital marketing, financial literacy, and inclusion for women-led businesses. Ibrahim is committed to innovation, mentorship, and helping young Africans thrive in entrepreneurship and tech.

Charles Ezerime is a seasoned Creative Director with over 15 years of experience in design, advertising, web development, and UI/UX, working with major brands and high-profile events across Africa. His portfolio includes leading design roles for Nigeria @100, Lagos @50 Runway Jazz, AMAA, and the Rwanda International Music Festival. Currently an associate partner at FuturaDigitall and Creative Director at CityFm105.1’s City Digital, Charles also serves as the Creative Art Director for the Africa Movie Academy Awards. His work has reached millions across billboards and digital platforms, reflecting his passion for impactful, result-driven brand strategies.

Dr. Wilson Silungwe is a seasoned academic, corporate leader, and communication expert with over two decades of experience in education, governance, and tourism development. He served as Executive Director of the Zambia Institute for Tourism and Hospitality Studies for 13 years and currently heads the School of Postgraduate Studies at the University of Lusaka. With multiple degrees in Communication, Religious Studies, and Mass Communication, Dr. Silungwe has led national projects, published widely, and contributed to tourism, education, and media policy in Zambia. He is also an author, consultant, mentor, and founder of Transforming Lives Ministries, dedicated to youth mentorship across Southern Africa.

As a digital transformation strategist, youth advocate, and program leader with over 7 years of cross-sector experience, I have led initiatives that equip young people with clarity, skills, and leadership. I currently manage national programs at HACSA Foundation and mentor emerging changemakers through platforms like Generation Shift Africa and Wordsculpt Consult. I’m committed to guiding mentees toward intentional growth, industry readiness, and values-driven leadership across Africa and beyond.

Batabile Sibaca is a seasoned facilities management expert and the Founder/CEO of Sibaca FM. With decades of industry experience, he is known for his innovative, hands-on leadership and commitment to sustainability, proactive maintenance, and IoT-driven solutions across Africa. At the heart of his work is a people-first approach—empowering teams, building strong client relationships, and setting new standards for operational excellence. Batabile’s vision continues to transform the FM landscape, inspiring lasting impact and progress across the continent.

Phindile Mlangeni is an admitted attorney, youth advocate, and founder of Law Simplified, with over seven years of experience in litigation, contract drafting, and legal operations. As Managing Attorney at her firm, she leads with purpose and a strong focus on accessible legal education for underserved communities. She serves as Legal Advisor for Lintle for Youth and mentors aspiring lawyers, empowering them with the tools to grow in confidence, leadership, and legal expertise. Her passion lies in simplifying law for small businesses, guiding young professionals, and championing children’s rights through advocacy and education.

With over 20 years of experience in real estate and construction, I am the founder and Sole Director of Olive Works (Pty) Ltd—a 100% Black female-owned company breaking ground in male-dominated sectors. My firm provides end-to-end services in construction, real estate, and property management across South Africa. Having worked on over 65 retail projects and held leadership roles at Investec Property Fund and Liberty Portfolio, including as Divisional Head of Leasing for the Sandton City Consortium, I bring a fresh, innovative approach to property management. I’m passionate about sharing this knowledge with others looking to enter or grow in the industry.

Padmore-Othniel is a passionate student of leadership with over 18 years of experience influencing people across generations. He holds a master’s degree in occupational safety and health risk management from the Open University of Malaysia and currently works as Base Operations Manager at a leading Oil and Gas service company in Ghana. He is the visionary and team lead of Tasso Pattern of Leadership Organization (T-POLO), a nonprofit focused on raising God-fearing servant leaders in various sectors of society. Padmore has mentored through the Yale Young African Scholars program and is the author of Don’t Wait for the Stage, a book that continues to inspire young professionals and corporate leaders.

As a Nigerian-born fashion designer and creative entrepreneur, I use my brands—Bibi Lawrence and shopbibilawrence.com—to translate African stories into luxurious, globally recognized garments that celebrate identity, craftsmanship, and culture. From Netflix campaigns to red carpet premieres, my designs have dressed leading figures while preserving indigenous narratives through textile and silhouette. Beyond fashion, I’m a mother, educator, and mentor, committed to empowering emerging designers and shaping a bold, future-facing African fashion narrative. With a growing international presence and a UK-based atelier on the horizon, I continue to build a legacy rooted in excellence, impact, and purpose.

Dr. ‘Dapo Omojola is a seasoned leader with over a decade of experience in enterprise transformation, capacity development, and strategic leadership. A CBES Certified Mentor, he brings a unique blend of real-world corporate success and a deep passion for mentoring emerging professionals. With a track record of driving impactful projects and leading high-performing teams, Dr. Omojola is committed to building people through structured mentorship, lifelong learning, and leadership development. His presence in the CBES Programme offers participants rich insights, practical wisdom, and a strong foundation for growth.

Rebecca Mkwezalamba Penumlungu (Becky) is a passionate marketing, sponsorship, and communications expert with nearly 20 years of experience across South Africa and the continent. She has led impactful campaigns in financial services, telecoms, insurance, and the non-profit sector, driving brand growth and sales through strategic, data-driven work. Known for her energy, creativity, and leadership, Becky has worked with top brands like FNB, Old Mutual, and Broadband Infraco. She thrives on building strong relationships, managing high-impact projects, and bringing both precision and heart to every role she takes on.

Ashwini Suryavanshi is an award-winning Senior Project Manager known for leading high-impact digital transformation programs across North America and the UK. With expertise in Salesforce, agile delivery, and public sector healthcare, she has managed multi-million-dollar initiatives for Fortune 500 companies and government agencies, earning honors like Project Manager of the Year. A strong advocate for women in tech, Ashwini has led over 200 educational sessions and mentors through platforms like CBES and GMI. Blending strategic leadership with mindfulness, she brings empathy, clarity, and lasting impact to every project she leads.

Felix Ofori Tetteh is a seasoned educationist with 15 years of leadership experience across Ghana’s basic, secondary, and tertiary education sectors. With a background in Education and a Humanitarian MBA, he blends academic expertise with a passion for social impact and innovation. As Education Manager at Obrobibini Peace Complex and National Head of Administration for the Global Association of Transformational Educators, Felix mentors changemakers, leads professional development, and champions teacher welfare. He also serves as Lead Coordinator for the Center for Project Innovation, driving educational and social entrepreneurship initiatives.

Nozipho Mbele is a skilled HR professional and Skills Development Specialist with over 7 years of experience in empowering individuals and growing organizations. Her work spans both government agencies like NYDA and SEDA, and the private sector, where she has coached entrepreneurs and professionals to reach their full potential. With expertise in mentorship, coaching, HR strategy, and talent development, Nozipho is passionate about unlocking human potential and delivering impactful, results-driven programs that drive long-term success.

Isaac Sogbadzi is an educator, curriculum specialist, and training consultant with over 16 years of advancing hands-on, learner-centered education across Africa. As Curriculum and Training Officer at the Practical Education Network, he designs and facilitates STEM workshops for teachers, contributing to national education reforms and innovative curricula in partnership with Ghana’s Ministry of Education. He has authored instructional materials used in Ghana, Rwanda, and Liberia, promoting practical science with locally sourced resources. With a background in Curriculum and Teaching from the University of Cape Coast, Isaac is dedicated to bridging the gap between theory and practice while mentoring with empathy guidance.

I am an educational leader and community developer with over 17 years of experience in teaching, coaching, curriculum design, and programme management. Passionate about creating transformative learning experiences, I focus on empowering young people and strengthening underserved communities. As Education Programme Director at The Sozo Foundation Trust, I lead the design and delivery of innovative academic and psycho-social initiatives that drive holistic community transformation. Previously, I directed the Sports Department at Sun Valley Primary School and served on the School Management Team as Head of English and History, gaining strong experience in both strategic leadership and programme delivery.

Ursula Molefe is a seasoned financial planner with over 16 years in the financial services industry and the founder of Wellfin, a firm dedicated to empowering women and young professionals through financial education, planning, and wellness. Her career journey, marked by resilience and a client-first approach, has shaped her passion for mentoring the next generation of financial leaders. Featured on ENCA, NewzRoom Afrika, and in financial publications, Ursula also hosts the Wealth Guide podcast, sharing insights on wealth-building and financial freedom. As a LeanIn Women in Financial Planning mentor, she inspires students and young advisors with authenticity, empathy, and practical wisdom.

Dickson Assan is a Chartered Accountant and Career Coach with over a decade of experience in accounting, compliance, and professional development. As Operations Manager (Finance & Compliance) at Lantini Limited, he drives strategic financial operations and regulatory oversight. He holds a First-Class BSc in Accounting from UPSA, an MSc in Accounting and Finance from the University of Ghana, and is a member of ICAG. Beyond finance, Dickson mentors young professionals through CareerCompass Ghana Limited and shares insights on financial literacy and career growth with his 54,000+ LinkedIn community. He has also engaged platforms like TV3, GhOne, and Mastercard Foundation.

Musa Nedshidzati is a dynamic IT professional with over six years of experience in back-end development, cloud-native platforms, workflow automation, and IT support. Skilled in Camunda workflows, Docker, Kubernetes, and event-driven architectures, Musa is proficient in C#, .NET Core, SQL, Java, Python, and PHP, with expertise in systems integration, data migration, and API development. Passionate about mentorship and collaboration, Musa has trained junior developers, supported user adoption, and built inclusive, high-performing teams. Fluent in seven languages, they connect easily across diverse communities while driving transformation in the tech space through knowledge sharing and innovation.

Ifeoma Edoka is a Global Event Strategist with over 8 years of experience designing and delivering impactful events across Nigeria and internationally. From intimate gatherings to large-scale corporate functions, she has worked with global organizations and high-profile individuals, earning recognition for her creativity, precision, and innovative approach. Passionate about mentorship and collaboration, Ifeoma inspires the next generation of event professionals while championing fresh ideas that elevate industry standards. To her, event management is not just work—it is an art, a craft, and a true calling.

An award-winning financial services leader with over 20 years of experience in insurance and banking, I specialize in building high-performing teams and driving strategic growth. With an MBA and a postgraduate diploma in financial planning, I bring expertise in product development, digital transformation, process optimization, and change leadership. I have a proven track record in strategy execution, innovation, and stakeholder collaboration at board and executive levels. Skilled in deal facilitation, risk management, and financial performance, I focus on creating sustainable profitability while delivering exceptional results in both B2B and B2C environments.

David Ncube is a Self Discovery Coach, Brand Strategist, and Creative Director dedicated to helping individuals and organizations reconnect with purpose and unlock their full potential. As an Internationally Certified Life and NLP Practitioner, he combines practical frameworks with deep insight to guide clients toward clarity, confidence, and alignment. As Creative Director at Rovok Media, David drives brand growth through digital storytelling and social media strategy. A gifted presenter and transformational speaker, he uses his platforms to address topics like purpose, identity, and entrepreneurship—empowering young people and inspiring meaningful change across communities.

Nomalanga is a seasoned communications and media professional with a global footprint, known for her powerful presentations, captivating voice-overs, and memorable events. Blending creativity, empathy, and strategy, she uses communication as a tool for meaningful connection and change. Her voice and storytelling leave lasting impressions across audiences and industries, reflecting her passion for authenticity, excellence, and the transformative power of words.