Announcing the 2025 Emerging Leaders Cohort

The Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation is proud to unveil the 2025 Cohort of the Emerging Leaders Program—a group of 20 exceptional young Cameroonians under 35 selected for their bold vision and transformative leadership. Drawn from a highly competitive applicant pool, these individuals reflect the diversity, resilience, and potential of Cameroon’s next generation. Each leader brings proven experience in team leadership, civic engagement, and a nuanced understanding of the nation’s geopolitical landscape. Together, they represent a powerful force for progress and innovation.

Appollinaire Mboudwe

Mboudwe Apollinaire leads Action for Education and Peace (A4EP) as President while coordinating regionally for Reading Classrooms. He brings six years of field experience as a humanitarian and development professional in Cameroon's Far North region. Currently pursuing his Master's in Social Sciences for Development at the University of Maroua, he holds degrees in Environmental History and International Political Relations. His expertise encompasses project planning, execution, evaluation, peace and social cohesion, and gender-sensitive approaches. Experienced in data collection, processing, interpretation, and training, Apollinaire dedicates himself to promoting peace, education for girls, and community empowerment in conflict-affected areas throughout his region.

Brice Armel Temkeng Tabonzong

Temkeng Tabonzong Brice Armel is the CEO and Founder of ETHOS Agency and a dynamic civil society leader with over six years of experience advancing democracy and peace in Cameroon. Formerly Director of the African Eloquence Competition (CAFE), he created platforms that amplify youth voices in public debate. With academic backgrounds in sociology and computer science, he brings strong expertise in communications management and project coordination. His work centers on civic engagement, strategic communication, and grassroots action. Passionate about youth empowerment, Tabonzong is committed to building a more just and inclusive Africa through innovative, youth-driven initiatives and meaningful public discourse.

Dairou Mohamadou

Mohamadou Dairou is a dynamic youth leader and community development advocate serving as Secretary at ETS T5 and President of Cameroon National Youth Council (CNJC) Garoua 2. With a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from the University of Garoua, he brings solid experience in commercial prospecting, client portfolio management, and customer service within the telecom and finance sectors. Dairou plays an active role in civil society through leadership in youth associations promoting peace, civic engagement, and development. Multilingual in French, English, and Fulbe, he combines strong communication and entrepreneurial skills to inspire youth participation and drive impactful change in northern Cameroon.

Emilie Tataw Ayuk

Tataw Ayuk Emilie Mayang manages programs at Youth for Health and Development of Africa (YOHEDA) while founding the Youth Mentorship & Empowerment Program. She brings over seven years of experience in youth development and education across Cameroon, holding a Bachelor's in Journalism and Mass Communication from the University of Buea. Mayang has led initiatives impacting over 200 health professionals and 100 adolescents while securing partnerships and managing cross-functional teams for scalable social impact. As an alumna of The Okwelians Fellowship, McKinsey Forward Program, and YALI, she excels in program design, stakeholder engagement, digital communication, and youth mentorship, aspiring to lead education programs across Africa.

Esaïe Mirizoukou

Ndal-Miri Mirizoukou Esaie works as Programme Assistant at World Food Programme while pursuing his Master I in Project Management at ESSEC. He specializes in project management and evaluation with three years of community development experience in rural Cameroon. His expertise spans monitoring, evaluation, community mobilization, and surveys in the Adamawa and the Far North regions. As an entrepreneur and business promoter, he has earned multiple national and international awards, including first prizes from JURE ENTREPRENEUR and African ChangeMakers Initiative. Holding a Bachelor's in Management Science and Technology from the University of Ngaoundéré, this multilingual professional (French, English, Fulfulde, Mboum) commits himself to rural development and innovation.

Gabriel Ludovic Kendjou taka

Gabriel Ludovic Kendjou Taka is an engineer, entrepreneur, and innovation specialist passionate about sustainable development and youth empowerment. He serves as CEO of MYPIOLE START UP TECH and Innovation Specialist at the World Food Forum Cameroon Chapter. With a Bachelor's in Climate and Energy Engineering, Taka brings expertise in biodigester systems, industrial maintenance, and digital solutions. As a certified entrepreneurship coach with the FRTN Community, he mentors young innovators across Africa. Fluent in multiple languages, Taka is committed to driving eco-friendly innovation and scaling tech-based solutions to address pressing development challenges across communities.

Goodness Tata Afahnyui

Tata Goodness Afahnyui is a passionate youth advocate, public health communicator, and gender equality champion in Cameroon. She co-founded and leads GirlFORCE Cameroon, manages social media for YouthFORCE Cameroon, and serves as General Secretary of NEWOLEC. With impactful advocacy on sexual reproductive health rights, digital safety, and leadership, she has reached over 500 youths and leads 60+ young women in community mobilization. Currently pursuing a BSc. in Nursing, Afahnyui brings expertise in strategic communication, community outreach, and project coordination. A YALI alumna and recognized speaker, she is dedicated to amplifying youth voices and shaping inclusive public health and gender policies across Africa.

Jephthath Fon Asobo

Fon Jephthath Asobo is a dedicated MEAL professional with over three years of experience in humanitarian and development contexts. He currently serves as M&E Lead at REVIVE ACTION Cameroon, where he designs data-driven frameworks, conducts field assessments, and supports evidence-based decision-making. Skilled in tools like SPSS, STATA, Power BI, and KoboToolbox, he also coordinates volunteer programs at Voices for Forests Alliance. He previously worked with LUKMEF, supporting program learning and accountability. Jephthath holds a B.A. from the University of Buea and is pursuing an MBA in Conflict Resolution. He is passionate about using data to enhance impact and promote transparency.

Karyom Djim-Adjim-Ngana

Karyom is a young Cameroonian researcher with three Master’s degrees in Clinical Biology, Veterinary Public Health, and Health Law. A PhD candidate at the University of Ngaoundéré, his work focuses on antimicrobial resistance, molecular epidemiology, and the One Health approach. He has authored over 10 scientific publications, consults on health risk management, lectures part-time, and founded OSAS to promote community health and youth empowerment. Actively engaged in global networks, he is a laureate of several international programs and embodies youth leadership for sustainable development.

Laura Nde Ngwe

Nde Laura Ngwe coordinates projects at Actions for Development and Empowerment (ADE), bringing over five years of experience in project management and communication. She holds a Bachelor's in Journalism and Mass Communication from the University of Buea and previously worked as a journalist with Cameroon News Agency and communications officer with Youth For A Better Cameroon. Her skills encompass project management, strategic communication, stakeholder engagement, grant writing, and advocacy. Recognized as Best Employer of the Year 2024, she successfully led "My Vote My Voice" and "Empowering Every Vote" projects. Ngwe excels in program design, community outreach, and promoting good governance and democracy.

Louise Angeline Lokumu

Lokumu Louise Angeline is a seasoned legal expert and advocate with nine years of experience in gender, natural resource governance, and environmental protection. She serves as a Facilitator at the Coalition Foncière Nationale and Co-Facilitator at Young Friends of the Treaty Movement. With a Master’s in International Relations and a Bachelor's in Law and Public Administration, she supports land reform, corporate accountability, and human rights advocacy. Lokumu has participated in UN negotiations in Geneva and led consultations across African communities. A dedicated researcher and writer, she champions social justice, land rights, and sustainable development across local and international platforms.

Marie Bernadette KAFKA

Kafka Marie Bernadette works as a Communication Professional and Public Policy Specialist, currently serving as Présentatrice at Wild Cameroon (Vision 4) and Consultante en Communication Digitale at WildAid Africa. She holds a Master's in International Relations (CAPI) from IRIC and has achieved remarkable recognition as a UNESCO Prize laureate for IA Challenge 2023, EU Oratory Competition winner 2024, and RCOY Africa Delegate 2024. Her diverse experience includes TV presenting, research, and entrepreneurship. Previously serving as CRTV weather presenter and digital communication consultant, she founded the PREPA ELITE preparation center. This multilingual professional leverages communication for social impact, youth empowerment, and policy advocacy across Africa.

Michèle Andrée Bowori

Bowori Michele Andree is a legal professional serving as Cadre Communal at the Communauté Urbaine de Kribi, where she supports the Cooperation and Projects Cell. Holding a Master’s in Business Legal Engineering and Commercial Arbitration from the University of Dschang, she brings strong expertise in contract management, legal documentation, and administrative correspondence. Fluent in French, English, and Spanish, Bowori also contributes to event organization and public relations. Her career reflects a deep commitment to sustainable development, inter-municipal cooperation, and the empowerment of vulnerable populations. She previously worked in the Mayor’s Cabinet, gaining valuable experience in governance and municipal affairs.

Omar Bilal Mouliom

Mouliom Njankouo Omar Bilal is a seasoned agricultural development professional with over five years of experience across West and Central Africa. He serves as Regional M&E Specialist at GIZ MOVE and Traceability and Inclusive Business Partnerships Advisor at GIZ SAFE. Bilal holds a Master’s in Agricultural Statistics and a Bachelor’s in Agribusiness from the University of Bamenda. He coordinates M&E across six ECOWAS countries and oversees rice value chain activities funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. With expertise in data methodologies, stakeholder engagement, and value chain analysis, he drives evidence-based impact in sustainable agriculture and inclusive agribusiness systems.

Patrick Engilbert Nnanga Eto

Nnanga Eto Patrick Engilbert is a community mobilization expert working with Positive-Génération and Afriyan Cameroon, where he leads efforts in HIV/AIDS, sexual reproductive health, and tuberculosis programs. With a background in digital engineering from the Institut Universitaire du Golf de Guinée, he combines technical expertise with grassroots experience to drive impact. Engilbert is skilled in data collection, capacity building, digital mobilization, and community supervision. Fluent in both French and English, he effectively leads prevention campaigns and supports vulnerable populations through referral systems. His work is rooted in a strong commitment to improving health access in underserved Cameroonian communities.

Romaric Kenne

Kenne Djounda Romaric teaches as Chargé de Travaux Dirigés at Université d'Ebolowa and formerly served as Secrétaire Assistant at RAFHCAM. He combines legal education with human rights advocacy, holding a Master's in Law from the University of Yaoundé 2. Currently teaching at the University of Ebolowa's Faculty of Legal and Political Sciences, he previously worked as assistant secretary at the Network of Associations of Women with Disabilities of Cameroon (RAFHCAM). His experience encompasses course preparation, student evaluation, workshop moderation, and rights sensitization. Passionate about human rights, democracy, rule of law, good governance, equality, and justice, he excels in legal counsel, positive listening, and document drafting.

Shadrak Tsapi Fomena

Tsapi Fomena Shadrak is an Ethics and Psychology Educator at The Brains University and the University of Dschang, where he has taught since 2018. Based in Dschang, Cameroon, he is currently pursuing a PhD in Social Psychology. Shadrak specializes in psychosocial interventions, team leadership, and statistical data analysis. He is skilled in course design, student evaluation, and academic mentorship. With a strong commitment to developing learners’ personalities and critical thinking, he uses education as a tool for social transformation. Passionate about knowledge sharing, Shadrak envisions a more empowered African society built on ethical leadership and academic excellence.

Sivieta Marthe Bone

Bone Ndenguele Sivieta Marthe is Vice-President of Eveil de l'Est and Financial Manager at Boneagro Business, promoting sustainable development and inclusive governance in Eastern Cameroon. She holds a Master’s degree in Operational Management of Public Institutions and Regional Development from Sainte Thérèse Catholic University, graduating with honors. A Mandela Washington Fellowship alumna, Marthe brings expertise in civic engagement, women’s empowerment, and green governance. She is an active member of REJEFEMAC and a volunteer with ACES Cameroon. Through strategic management and grassroots initiatives, she supports vulnerable communities, particularly women, driving development solutions rooted in equity, sustainability, and regional transformation.

Suzanne Satrebai

Satrebai Suzanne is the founder of African Community Engagement (ACE) and serves as Conseillère Régionale at the Conseil Régional de l’Extrême-Nord of Cameroon. Based in the Far North, she leads initiatives in peacebuilding, education, women’s health, and the fight against gender-based violence. Suzanne holds a Master’s in International Law and Humanitarian Action from the University of Maroua. A Mandela Washington Fellow and YALI alumna, she brings expertise in conflict mediation, radicalization prevention, and inclusive governance. Her work emphasizes community dialogue, policy advocacy, and grassroots engagement to foster democratic values and resilience in vulnerable communities.

Welisane Maagbor Bonè

Welisane Maagbor Bone is a youth advocate and gender equality champion committed to advancing sexual and reproductive health rights in Cameroon. She serves as the WhatGirlsWant Focal Point at Athena Network and Her Voice Fund Ambassador with the Global Network of Young People Living with HIV. With a Master's degree in Conflict Resolution and a Bachelor's degree in Women and Gender Studies, she brings expertise in advocacy, strategic communication, and youth-led program design. Maagbor has supported over 10 grassroots organizations and mentored 100+ young people. Her work centers on inclusion, intersectionality, and amplifying marginalized voices across diverse communities in Cameroon.

Our Facilitators

Dr. Denis Foretia

Dr. Foretia is Co-Chair of the Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation and Executive Chairman of the Nkafu Policy Institute, a leading Cameroonian think tank. Along with co-chair Lenora Ebule, he shapes and approves strategy, advocates for the foundation, and helps set the overall direction. He is also the Chairman of Merckshire LLC, an international holding company with operations in the US and Cameroon. A surgeon by training, Foretia has always been involved in philanthropic activities and issues related to international development. He is currently the President of the Association of Cameroonian Physicians in the Americas (ACPA). He is also the Co-Founder and pioneer president of the Cameroon Professional Society (CPS) – the premier institution for Cameroonian professionals in the US focused on advancing economic opportunity and leadership development among Cameroonians.

As the former Executive Co-chair of the Meharry-Vanderbilt Alliance, he helped spearhead major community service-oriented and leadership-driven projects geared towards uplifting inner-city children in the Greater Nashville area. His leadership as National President of the Cameroon Students Association (CAMSA-USA) saw a paradigm shift towards positive intellectual discourse and the development of philanthropic projects that solidified CAMSA’s standing in the community as the premier student organization in the diaspora. Denis remains very involved with helping young Cameroonians transition into professional institutions and advance in their professional careers. He has been recognized with multiple academic and professional awards such as the Vanderbilt Deans Scholarship, the Overall Fellowship, the Community service award from CAMSA.

Foretia is faculty in the department of surgery at Johns Hopkins University and staff acute care surgeon at Lifebridge Health in Baltimore. He is also an Associate in the department of International Health at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. He holds a Bachelor’s degree with honors in Biological Sciences from the University of Maryland Baltimore County, a Doctor of Medicine degree from Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee. He completed his surgical residency training at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta where he was also a Global Health Research Scholar. Denis holds a Masters in Public Health (MPH) from Bloomberg School of Public Health at the Johns Hopkins University and a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) from the Carey School of Business also at the Johns Hopkins University. The Foretias enjoy traveling and are blessed with a daughter, Gélan and a son, Baiden.

Dr. Marie-Gloriose Ingabire

Dr. Marie-Gloriose Ingabire is a dynamic development agent with over 20 years of experience. With substantive knowledge and extensive experience in international development research and programming, she has effectively collaborated with researchers, policymakers, practitioners, civil society organizations, and community leaders to improve health and wellbeing of diverse populations in low- and middle-income countries. She has cultivated several partnerships and alliances with governments, bilateral, multilateral, and other international development funding and implementing organizations, as well as private foundations. 

Marie-Gloriose’s journey at the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) began in 2009, where she assumed the role of Senior Program Specialist in Ottawa, Canada. In this capacity, she spearheaded various pivotal projects encompassing health systems financing, sexual and reproductive health, research capacity strengthening, and evidence use in decision-making.

Later, she transitioned to Dakar, serving as the Regional Focal Point for West and Central Africa with the Global Health Program. She was then promoted to the position of Team Leader in the same program before ultimately taking on the mantle of Regional Director. Throughout Marie-Gloriose has represented IDRC in global health research fora and governance committees.

Prior to her tenure at IDRC, Marie-Gloriose worked at the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and earlier in her career with the Canadian Federal Government. She holds a Ph.D. in economics from the Université de Montréal.

Pr. William H. Arrey

Prof. William Hermann Arrey is a Senior Fellow in Peace & Security /Governance & Democracy Policy Sections, Nkafu Policy Institute and Advisor to the Board. Prior to this, he served as interim CEO of the Foretia Foundation and Research & Policy Fellow with the Nkafu Policy Institute. He is also currently the Head of the Department of Peace and Development Studies at the Protestant University in Cameroon based in Yaoundé

Prof. Arrey brings a wealth of experience and senior leadership to the Foundation. He obtained his PhD in Peace and International Development Studies from the University of Bradford, United Kingdom; a Master of Philosophy (M.Phil) from the University of Tromso, Norway and a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and Anthropology from the University of Buea. He has published in many peer-reviewed journals and has written extensively on local governments, peace building and conflict transformation. He travels frequently for talks, lectures and presentations.

Maximilienne Ngo Mbe

Maximilienne est une militante camerounaise de premier plan, directrice exécutive du Réseau des Défenseurs des Droits Humains en Afrique Centrale (REDHAC) depuis 2010. REDHAC est une organisation régionale basée à Douala, active dans huit pays d’Afrique centrale, œuvrant pour la protection des défenseur·e·s des droits humains et la promotion des libertés fondamentales. Engagée dès les années 1990, elle s’est imposée comme une figure centrale dans la lutte pour la démocratie, les droits civils, la justice sociale et la liberté d’expression.

Au sein de REDHAC, elle coordonne des enquêtes sur les violations des droits humains, met en place des dispositifs de protection pour les activistes en danger et mène des actions de plaidoyer auprès des institutions africaines et internationales. Elle est également membre du conseil d’administration du Réseau panafricain des défenseurs des droits humains et trésorière du Réseau pour la démocratie africaine.

Maximilienne Ngo Mbe s’est illustrée notamment en dénonçant le massacre de Ngarbuh en 2020, au cours duquel des civils ont été tués par des forces de sécurité. Malgré les menaces et pressions, elle a exigé justice et contribué à briser le silence officiel.

Son engagement lui a valu plusieurs distinctions prestigieuses, dont le Prix franco-allemand des droits de l’Homme et de l’État de droit (2016), le International Women of Courage Award décerné par le Département d’État américain (2021), et le Prix des droits de l’Homme de Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights (2022), qu’elle partage avec l’avocat camerounais Félix Agbor Nkongho.

Malgré les intimidations, les campagnes de dénigrement et l’exil forcé de ses enfants pour raisons de sécurité, elle poursuit son combat avec détermination, incarnant une voix forte et indépendante de la société civile en Afrique centrale.

Dr Solange Dabou

Dr. Solange Dabou is a Health Policy Analyst at the Nkafu Policy Institute and holds a PhD in Clinical Biochemistry from the University of Dschang. She is a 2025 Data Science to Advance Women’s Health Fellow and 2024 ARTEMIS Fellow with the Max Planck Society. She has a strong commitment to leveraging research and innovation to shape health policy in Africa. Her work integrates biochemistry, epidemiology, and data science, with a focus on women’s health and non-communicable diseases. Dr. Dabou is a founding member of RHED Foundation and serves as scientific advisor for THEA, a telemedicine platform. She has received multiple awards and international recognition for her research and science communication, including peer-reviewed publications and public science contributions. She is an active member of OWSD, the Global Health Network, and the World Youth Forum.

Souop Kamga Boris

I am a professional passionate about economic development, professional training and strategic support for businesses, development organizations and regions. With over 16 years of experience, I am the Managing Director of Business Development Services (BDS SARL) and Director of Strategy and Development at the EMG Consortium.

I hold a DBA (ASMP Paris), a Master's degree in Political Science and a Master's degree in International Relations (with a specialization in International Marketing from IRIC). I also have a solid scientific background as a Professor of Mathematics, having graduated from ENS Yaoundé.

In the field of consulting and strategic management, I work to promote entrepreneurship, decent jobs, team leadership, and the empowerment of women and vulnerable people.

My career has enabled me to contribute to several large-scale projects funded by international donors (EU, AFD, World Bank, GIZ, etc.), particularly in the areas of SME support, vocational training, social housing, economic integration of internally displaced persons, digital transformation and the structuring of business services markets in Africa.

Today, I am working on the implementation of structural projects focused on:

  • Youth entrepreneurial development (AGIR Project)
  • Promotion of territories and the circular and green economy (L’Autre Afrique)
  • Educational innovation for vulnerable populations (SAVES Project)
  • Promoting innovation and high-potential local initiatives (OSER Project)

I am always open to professional synergies, collaborative projects and sharing expertise to build sustainable, inclusive and locally rooted development in Africa

Leila Kigha

Leila Kigha is a Personal Brand champion, Communication
Specialist and Women Empowerment Advocate.
With over two decades of experience in the
communication space, Leila has a rich background
spanning broadcast journalism (TV and Radio News
Presenter, Field Reporter, Editor in Chief, Station
Manager), public relations, content creation, and media
consulting.
Leila's branding work extensively supports women. Since
2015, as a certified Personal Brand facilitator, she has
helped "purpose-driven entrepreneurs and professionals
build purposeful personal brands". She offers personalised
coaching sessions, workshops, and resources designed to
"empower many to step into their light and achieve
greater personal and professional success". Her approach
focuses on helping individuals, particularly women, take
ownership of, align and communicate their unique brands
in memorable, engaging, and authentic ways, enabling
them to attract the right audiences and achieve their core
goals.
A passionate advocate for women's empowerment, Leila
founded EmpowerHer Network Africa in 2019. This
organisation is dedicated to uplifting and supporting
women across the continent, spearheading numerous
programs and workshops to educate, creating platforms,
and advocating for the rights of women. Through
EmpowerHer Network Africa, hundreds of women have
been reached, providing them with essential tools,
resources and opportunities.
Currently, Leila is a Digital communication specialist at
Smile Train Africa, the world's largest Cleft-focused
organisation, leveraging her storytelling skills to drive
awareness and enhance brand visibility across Africa.

Caroline Ndifor

Caroline Ndifor is a Mother, Coach, Mentor and a Christian who serves as the Country Lead and Business Development Manager for the British Council, Cameroon. In her role, she oversees the organization's operations, fostering educational and cultural collaborations between Cameroon, CEMAC and the United Kingdom.

 

She’s got over 30 years of professional experience in national and international domains of Education, Management, Leadership , Risk/Compliance and Business Assurance.

 

Throughout her tenure, Ms. Ndifor has actively engaged in initiatives aimed at empowering youth and promoting educational excellence. She has been a keynote speaker at various academic and social events, inspiring participants to pursue excellence and embrace diversity. As an educationist, she prides herself with supporting in the creation of an educational ecosystem that strives to groom a generation of people that are ready for world class competition and challenges.

 

Her leadership emphasizes the importance of empathy, EQ, service, cultural exchange and the development of global competencies among youths. Additionally, she has participated in workshops addressing challenges faced by women in ascending to leadership positions, highlighting her commitment to gender equality and empowerment.

 

Her contributions have been recognized by the UK government through UK's Minister for Africa, underscoring her dedication to enhancing educational and cultural ties between Cameroon and the UK.

 

Ms Ndifor volunteers as the Vice president of Royal Ministries International (ROMI), a christian organisation that builds capacity for Excellence in Service. In her role, also supports and works with various communities to provide sustainable skills and build capacity in an annual program dubbed Christian Community Excellence Week. She leads a team that raises funds and creates partnerships to drive Medical campaigns, Trainings in leadership and Business development, Brain health, Special needs and inclusivity and Women Empowerment. Over the years, the association has impacted more than 2500 Youths, Women and other vulnerable groups.

 

In 2024, she featured as one of 16 women in the SSA Women in Leadership Book featuring women leaders sharing the barriers they navigate, the strengths they deploy, and the support they need as they lead. The book tells the super-inspiring accounts of women finding ways to succeed in leadership with vision, good fights, and resilience. The book was published by the British council as an equality, diversity, and inclusion initiative from the team in Sub-Saharan Africa

 

Over the years, she has provided professional and personal support to Youths across different spheres and nationals, serving as a springboard to build and understand the dynamics of managing and blending professional, christian and family lives for a better community.

Yaa Gladys Viban

Yaa Gladys Shang Viban is currently the Vice-President of African Women Leaders Network 237 and a seasoned leadership Coach. She comes with over 28 years of experience in gender empowerment programs and youth enhancement projects. Her broad expertise and rigorous work ethics recently caused her to join the CSO HOFNA as Board Chair.  In this role, she passionately works to foster the socio-economic empowerment of women, girls and their communities through leadership development, peacebuilding and initiatives that promote civic participation as well as agribusiness/entrepreneurship.

The former Cultural Affairs Specialist at U.S. Embassy Yaoundé has made invaluable contributions in leadership development and women empowerment recognized throughout her professional career and have earned several awards of merit and distinction.  

Antem Anthony

Anthony is a Head of Conflict Prevention, and Analysis Unit at the Foretia Foundation. Prior to joining the Foundation, he served as conflict, policy and security assistant at the International Crisis Group, Kenya. He has equally served as political and communications intern at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office/British High Commission in Yaoundé. Added to these, He has served as policy analyst for African Affairs at the African Online and Publications Library (AOPL).

Anthony is a certified administrative and operations professional from the United Nations University for Peace and the Pan African Institute for Development, West Africa (PAID-WA). He is currently finalizing a Professional Master’s Degree in International Relations/Disputes from the International Relations Institute of Cameroon (IRIC). He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration and Law from the University of Yaoundé II, Soa.

Dr. Eyole Nganje Monono

Dr. Eyole Nganje Monono is a passionate and conscientious professional with extensive practical and theoretical knowledge in Sociology, Anthropology, International Relationship, Regional Integration, Peace Building, Democracy, governance and entrepreneurship.  leadership. He is driven by the desire to see meaningful development in communities through effective leadership. He is an outstanding leader and a very motivated team player, who has served in several leadership capacity in different organizations.

Dr. Monono is the Chair for Political Affairs at the African Union Economic, Social and Cultural Council (AU-ECOSOCC), His Cluster Committee examines and provide advisory opinion to the African Union on issues of Human Rights & Rule of Law, Democratic and Constitutional Rule, Good Governance, Electoral Institutions, Humanitarian Affairs.                                          Dr. Monono is serving as the Programme Director at the Centre for Research on Democracy and Development in Africa (CEREDDA), He led CEREDDA International Observer Mission to the Central African Republic July 30th, 2023 Referendum. He has equally been the Head of Mission for CEREDDA National Observer Mission in 6 Elections in Cameroon since 2018. Dr. Monono is a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, University of Buea, he also give lectures at the National School of Penitentiary Administration (ENAP) – Buea. He is a scholar who has presented papers and publications in both national and international journals and conferences.

Anissa Yambé

Anissa Yambé is a passionate change maker and leader from Cameroon. She is currently serving as an author and consultant in management and strategy corporate. With over seven years of experience as an administrative executive, she now devotes her expertise to impactful initiatives aligned with SDGs 4 and 8.
Driven by a deep commitment to youth empowerment in Cameroon, she actively contributes to community-based initiatives such as Skill Up Program (a Cameroonian group initiative sponsored by Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation) .She is actually the founder of Talent Builder an initiative born out of a strong desire to address the challenges of socio-professional orientation among young people; By promoting awareness and provides tailored self-development strategies aimed at fostering personal clarity, confidence and boldness.

Dr Pippie Hugues

Dr. Pippie Hugues is a Policy Analyst at the Governance and Democracy Division of the Nkafu Policy Institute. He holds a Ph.D. in International Law with specialty in Human Rights, Conflict and Peace building. He equally holds a Masters in Law and Logic (LLM) and another Masters in International Human Rights Law all from the University of Buea. Additionally, he holds an Advance Certificate in Peace Building and Conflict Transformation from the Peace and Justice Center of the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon (PCC), and an Executive Diploma in Disaster Risk Management. 

His Research interest includes Governance, Democracy, Human Rights, Peace building and Conflict. Prior to his role as policy analyst, Dr. Pippie Hugues is a visiting lecturer at the United Nations Mandated University for Peace in Mogadishu Somalia where he handles Masters programs on International Law and Human Rights, Peace, Governance and Development. 

Dr. Pippie Hugues is a seasoned researcher with published articles in peered review journals across the globe. 

Ferdinand M. Sonyuy

Anissa Yambé is a passionate change maker and leader from Cameroon. She is currently serving as an author and consultant in management and strategy corporate. With over seven years of experience as an administrative executive, she now devotes her expertise to impactful initiatives aligned with SDGs 4 and 8.
Driven by a deep commitment to youth empowerment in Cameroon, she actively contributes to community-based initiatives such as Skill Up Program (a Cameroonian group initiative sponsored by Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation) .She is actually the founder of Talent Builder an initiative born out of a strong desire to address the challenges of socio-professional orientation among young people; By promoting awareness and provides tailored self-development strategies aimed at fostering personal clarity, confidence and boldness.

Yaa Gladys Viban

Yaa Gladys Shang Viban is currently the Vice-President of African Women Leaders Network 237 and a seasoned leadership Coach. She comes with over 28 years of experience in gender empowerment programs and youth enhancement projects. Her broad expertise and rigorous work ethics recently caused her to join the CSO HOFNA as Board Chair.  In this role, she passionately works to foster the socio-economic empowerment of women, girls and their communities through leadership development, peacebuilding and initiatives that promote civic participation as well as agribusiness/entrepreneurship.

The former Cultural Affairs Specialist at U.S. Embassy Yaoundé has made invaluable contributions in leadership development and women empowerment recognized throughout her professional career and have earned several awards of merit and distinction.  

Antem Anthony

Anthony is a Head of Conflict Prevention, and Analysis Unit at the Foretia Foundation. Prior to joining the Foundation, he served as conflict, policy and security assistant at the International Crisis Group, Kenya. He has equally served as political and communications intern at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office/British High Commission in Yaoundé. Added to these, He has served as policy analyst for African Affairs at the African Online and Publications Library (AOPL).

Anthony is a certified administrative and operations professional from the United Nations University for Peace and the Pan African Institute for Development, West Africa (PAID-WA). He is currently finalizing a Professional Master’s Degree in International Relations/Disputes from the International Relations Institute of Cameroon (IRIC). He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration and Law from the University of Yaoundé II, Soa.

Ndi Nancy Saiboh
Ndi Nancy Saiboh (Ms.) is the Co-Founder/ CEO  of Actions for Development and Empowerment (ADE), a non-profit, grassroots, and youth-driven organization founded by a with the aim of empowering young people to act around issues that affect their lives and play an active role in the development process thereby creating positive change in their communities and Africa at large. ADE works to ensure citizen involvement, and participation in the overall governance of the state and build the capacity of young people to hold the government accountable to its service-delivery obligations through informed demands.

She is also a social justice advocate with over five years of experience in community outreach and organizing. She is particularly interested in public accountability and the use of law to improve the socio-economic wellbeing of citizens, with a priority for youths, women and vulnerable groups. Ms. Ndi is also the Country Coordinator for Follow The Money- Cameroon, an institution that seeks to ensure improved, and increased accountability in the government procurement process, as well as ensure accountability for public finance meant for Community and Social Development. She has represented the young people of Cameroon on a number of National and International meetings, and convenings.

She represented Cameroon at the African Youth Congress, on Anti-Corruption convened in December of 2018 by the PResident of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. She is the former Coordinator of Citizens Governance Initiative a community-based organization that helps to improve organizational capacity for CSOs and NGOs in Cameroon. She just launched the SDG School Tour which seeks to empower students, especially girls on creating awareness around the sustainable development goals and carryout community initiatives aimed at promoting SDGs 4, 5, and 6.

She also launched the EmpowerHer Champaign aimed at sensitizing adolescent girls about proper Menstrual Hygiene as addressing menstrual taboos and myths surrounding menstruation. Ms. Ndi holds a BAchelors in Common Law, and a Masters in English Law from the University Of Yaoundé II-Soa Cameroon.

Agenda

D1D2D3

August 04, 2024


08:00 - 09:00 Registration & Networking

09:00 - 09:30 Opening Session
  - Ice breakers - Introduction of the program and objectives - Welcome Remarks

09:30 - 10:00 Opening Keynote - The Power of Youth Leadership in Driving Social change.

10:00 – 10:15 Group pictures

10:15 - 11:15 Foundations of transformational leadership
  - Leadership style / Visionary thinking - Leading by example and empowering others - Ethical leadership

11:15 - 12:00 Harnessing Emotional Intelligence for purposeful leadership
  - Self-awareness and self-regulation - Empathy and relationship management - Social awareness and emotional resilience

12:00 – 12:30 Strategic Thinking and Decision-Making
  - Systems and design thinking - Risk analysis - Data-informed decisions

12:30 - 13:30 Lunch Break
13:30 - 14:15 Self Introspection - Leadership and Personal Growth

14:15 - 15:15 Technical session - Strategies for Team Empowerment
  - Building Resilience - Stress management - Team building and Collaboration

15:15 - 15:45 Networking
15:45 - 16:30 Leadership unfiltered – A Conversation with Ms. Edith Kah Walla
16:30 - 17:30 Selection of groups and discussion on expected group projects and activity

17:30 Wrap up
17:30 - 18:30 Personal Time
18:30 - 19:30 Networking Dinner

 

August 05, 2024


08:00 - 08:30 Arrival and registration
08:30 - 09:00 Recap of day 1
09:00 - 10:00 Workshop: The art of public speaking

10:00 – 11:00 Technical session - Developing your personal brand & communicating for impact
  - Strategic communication - Social media presence

11:00 - 11:30 Defining Moments in Leadership
11:30 - 12:30 Understanding and Engaging in Public Policymaking
12:30 - 13:30 Writing for Impact: How to write compelling policy briefs and Op-eds
13:30 - 14:30 Lunch Break

14:30 - 15:30 Advocacy and Public Influence
  - Advocacy strategies - Networking and influence

15:30 - 17:30 City Tour
17:30 - 18:30 Group work on the community projects
18:30 - 19:00 Networking Dinner

 

 

August 06, 2024


08:00 - 08:30 Arrival and registration
08:30 - 09:00 Recap of day 2
09:00 - 10:00 Leadership in Practice

10:00 - 10:30 From Emerging Leader to Change Maker: An alumni Story of Growth and Impact
10:45 - 11:45 Public Debate: Youth participation in electoral processes is mandatory for effective governance
12:00 - 13:15 Lessons in Leadership: Panel discussion with four leaders

13:15 - 15:00 Lunch and Group work
15:00 - 16:00 Project Pitching by Emerging Leaders
16:00 - 16:30 Official engagement of Emerging leaders

16:30 - 17:00 Wrap-up and Closing Remarks
17:00 - 17:30 Family pictures and Interviews
17:00 – 19:00 Relaxation time