The

SPEAKERS

Diplomatic

Speakers

H.E Dr Karen-Mae Hill OBE

High Commissioner, Antigua & Barbuda

High Commissioner Karen-Mae Hill is a barrister by profession who has worked for over 15 years in banking and financial services before her appointment as High Commissioner to the United Kingdom. She is also concurrently Antigua and Barbuda’s non-resident ambassador to Ireland, the Federal Republic of Germany, Estonia, and Lithuania. Her areas of professional interest are financial services regulation, the blue economy, trade and advocacy around the recognition of the inherent vulnerabilities of small states. She has adopted the empowerment of youth and persons with disabilities as her areas of social focus. High Commissioner Hill is a Rhodes Scholar and an Honourable Society of Gray’s Inn Prince of Wales Scholar. She is an accomplished pianist and speaks French. She was awarded an Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the King’s 2023 New Year’s Honours List for service to youth and the arts.

H.E Johnston Busingye

High Commissioner, Rwanda

His Excellency Johnston Busingye assumed his duties as High Commissioner for Rwanda to the Court of Saint James on 29 March 2022 when he presented the working copies of his Credentials to the Vice-Marshall of the Diplomatic Corps and Director of Protocol at Lancaster House and now awaits the presentation of his Letters of Credence to Her Royal Highness The Queen.   Prior to his appointment as High Commissioner, he was the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Republic of Rwanda, a post he served for nine years.  He served as the Secretary-General for the Ministry of Justice, and among other duties, had oversight of the National Prosecution Service, National Prison Service, National Notary Service, and the Criminal Investigation Department, before being appointed President of High Court in Rwanda and as Principal Judge of the East African Court of Justice.   Mr. Johnston Busingye studied law and has practiced as an advocate in several institutions in Rwanda and in East Africa. He has played a vital role in the justice sector in Rwanda and in East Africa

Amb. Salah S. Hammad

Head of African Governance Architecture (AGA) Secretariat, African Union Commission

Amb. Salah S. Hammad, originally from Sudan, is the Head of the African Governance Platform Secretariat and the Human Rights and Transitional Justice Unit at the African Union Commission. He holds an LLM in Human Rights and a Doctorate in International Relations. Educated in the USA, he was appointed an Ambassador within Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and voted Ambassador for Human Rights by the Arab Council for Human Rights in 2013. With 25 years dedicated to development and human rights, Amb. Hammad has worked with Migration and Refugee Services and various global organizations, joining the African Union’s Human Rights Segment six years ago.

Baroness Verma of Leicester

Chair, un women uk; chancellor, Roehampton University

Baroness Verma is a highly influential global business leader and political figure. Since joining the House of Lords in 2006, she has held key Ministerial positions in government and opposition, including roles as Minister for Energy and Climate Change, International Development, and Global Champion for tackling violence against women and girls. She chairs Nexus Green Ltd and UN Women UK and is Chancellor of Roehampton University. A strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, she co-founded Powerful Women to address gender gaps in the energy sector and is also an independent director at the Afrinex Stock Exchange in Mauritius.

MC Desreine Taylor

Minister Counsellor for Consular and Diaspora Affairs, Jamaican High Commission

Minister Counsellor Desreine Taylor is a seasoned Foreign Service Officer with over 25 years in Jamaica’s Diplomatic Service. Since August 2021, she has served as Minister Counsellor for consular and diaspora affairs at the Jamaican High Commission. Previously, she was Assistant Director in the Consular Affairs Department (2017-2021). Her extensive foreign service experience includes postings in Miami, Brazil, Washington, DC, and New York. Ms. Taylor holds a Bachelor’s from the University of the West Indies and a Master’s from the City University of New York. She is also a Toastmasters International member and enjoys Scrabble, international affairs, and Biblical archaeology.

Keynote

Speakers

Segun Ajayi-Kadir, mni

Director General, Manufacturers Association Nigeria

Segun Ajayi-Kadir, mni, holds a Master’s in International Relations from Obafemi Awolowo University and a B.Sc. in Political Science from Ahmadu Bello University. An alumni of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, he worked at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, later becoming Director General/CEO of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN). He serves on various Federal Government committees, including the Presidential Economic Coordinating Council and National Minimum Wage Committee. Ajayi-Kadir is the Pioneer Co-Secretary General of the Pan-African Manufacturers Association and has received training from UNIDO and the Lagos Business School. He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Credit Administration.

The

Moderators

Michael Lutterodt-Quarcoo

International Host and Presenter, Meta

As an international host and presenter, Michael Lutterodt-Quarcoo (ML-Q) boasts over 12 years’ experience keynoting corporate, charity and a catalogue of specialist events. Wide cultural experience and a thirst for knowledge teamed with Michael’s natural charisma enable him to build an instant connection with his audience. Whether it’s as vast as an auditorium with 4000+ guests or an intimate occasion, Michael ensures attendees leave educated, inspired and entertained. From presenting an educational video series for Meta to hosting events with VVIPs such as Prince Harry, Hollywood’s Boris Kodjoe and the President and Vice President of Ghana, Michael has amassed a wealth of experience working with notable names.

Andrew Skipper MBE

Founder & CEO, Polymetis Professional Solutions

Andrew is the founder and CEO of Polymetis Professional Solutions, a consultancy which advises businesses in a range of sectors including law by bringing experienced and connected networks together and delivering solutions effectively and in collaboration. Andrew is a commercial lawyer of more than 35 years standing having been on the global Management Committee and the head of corporate globally for Hogan Lovells and subsequently Head of their Africa Practice. Andrew is on various boards in the business and cultural space with a focus on Africa, including recently as Co-chair of the UK Government’s Africa Investors Group, as vice chair of the Royal African Society, being on the Board of the SA Chamber of Commerce and the legal group of the UK Nigeria EDF. Andrew is also committed to the arts, is on the advisory board to 1-54 and was vice chair of the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art in USA. Andrew received the MBE in the Platinum Jubilee hours list for services to UK trade especially in Africa.

The

Speakers

Dr. Justina Mutale

Board Chair/Founder/CEO, National Alliance of Women’s Organisations Justina Mutale Foundation, Zambia

Dr. Justina Mutale is a globally renowned advocate for gender equality, recognized for her exceptional contributions to empowering women and girls worldwide. With prestigious titles such as African Woman of the Year and Africa’s Best Female Philanthropist, her influence resonates across continents. Dr. Mutale’s remarkable journey spans over three decades of diplomatic and international development experience, shaping policies and advocating for social reforms. As the Founder and President of the Justina Mutale Foundation, she spearheads initiatives to uplift underprivileged African women through education and mentorship. A sought-after keynote speaker and bestselling author, Dr. Mutale continues to inspire change, leaving an indelible mark on the global quest for gender equality.

Pooran Desai

Founder, One Planet

Pooran is a serial social entrepreneur, author and advisor to companies and government. He is the creator of the framework on which the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are based.

He studied medical sciences and neuroscience at Oxford and Cambridge Universities before co-founding environmental  organisation, Bioregional, in 1994. With colleagues he  established enterprises in sustainable forestry, organic farming and recycling, and put together Beddington Zero fossil Energy Development (BedZED) in south London, the world’s first zero carbon urban village.

Pooran coined the term One Planet Living ® , leading an international initiative embedding the holistic framework across all sectors including $30bn of zero carbon real estate in 30 countries and which served as the basis for the UN SDGs.

In 2018 he founded OnePlanet.com, an intuitive  ‘systems-thinking-joined-up-action & digital platform enabling users to identify and collaborate in ‘Shared Outcomes’.

He was made Honorary Fellow of the Royal Institute of British Architects, received the Order of the Officer of the British Empire (OBE) from Queen Elizabeth II and named World Economic Forum Social Entrepreneur of the Year 2011.

Chris Desai

Founder, UOCEAN; UEARTH; Vayyu Foundation

Chris Desai, is a world renown Entrepreneur – Philanthropist from humble beginnings, Leicester, UK who has made considerable contributions to the United Kingdom & beyond with his organic luxury fashion brand Vayyu®, his registered charity The Vayyu Foundation® and his two global projects UOCEAN 2050 & UEARTH 2050. Chris being mixed race himself with his upbringing stemming from Africa, India and the Caribbean, strives to work with isolated and underserved communities daily. Chris has been voted Forty under 40 for Climate & Sustainability and BBC Winner of the Make A Difference Awards and many more.

Dr. Graziella Thake

CEO, The Optimisation Hub

Dr. Graziella Thake, CEO of The Optimisation Hub, is a passionate advocate for youth mental health and sports development. With a wealth of experience spanning psychology, leadership, and risk management, she leads groundbreaking initiatives to promote positive health development. Her visionary leadership has garnered global recognition, including prestigious awards and affiliations with esteemed organizations like the United Nations. Dr. Graziella’s transformative impact extends across diverse sectors, from law enforcement to sports governance, underscoring her commitment to effecting positive change. Through her tireless advocacy and mentorship, she continues to inspire and empower individuals worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on generations to come

Kehinde Odanye

International Development Consulting & Governments Advisory Specialist, Goalkeeper- Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

Kehinde is an exceptional leader and TEDx speaker committed to sustainable solutions and fostering peace through policy, research, and advocacy. As a Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Goalkeeper, he’s recognized globally. Nominated for the Future Awards Africa, he won the 2023 ADKing Foundation’s Young Professional achievement award in the USA. Kehinde serves in roles like advocacy specialist at the Commonwealth Youth Council and on the Policy and Research team at the London Interfaith Youth Council. He’s contributed to initiatives like the GCM-UNESCO global consultation on education and holds a master’s from the University of Sussex. Currently, he’s a Chatham House Common Futures Conversationalist, shaping global discourse.

Dr. Yvonne Thompson CBE

CEO, Wintrade Limited

Dr. Yvonne Thompson CBE is a renowned expert in supplier diversity, with over 15 years of experience helping small businesses integrate into corporate supply chains. She leads the Wintrade Global Women in Business Network’s Ready2Supply program, collaborating with HSBC. Passionate about sustainability, she advocates for circular economies, focusing on Africa. Dr. Thompson is the driving force behind the FLAIR Summit, uniting Africa’s First Ladies to address climate change. With over 40 years of leadership in diversity and entrepreneurship, she has been honored with a CBE, two doctorates, and several prestigious fellowships for her contributions.

Jean Marc Flambert
Jean-Marc is a Haitian born Sri Lankan who has worked for 20 years in Europe for the governments of Sri Lanka, Saint Lucia, Haiti and Antigua and Barbuda. He has also done project work for India (the state of Kerala) and Gibraltar. Whilst his core strength is destination marketing, he has had to react to and re-market after major disasters and crisis – namely the Asian tsunami, the Haiti earthquake, Hurricane Tomas (Saint Lucia) and Irma (Antigua & Barbuda), gun crime in the Caribbean and acts of terrorism in Sri Lanka.

Jean-Marc has also had the fortune to work in the private sector with in hotels, DMC’s,  a MICE specialists, and a website development company so he understands the challenges from different perspectives. He has travelled to over 50 cities and 30 countries, has been a board member of many associations including ANTOR (Association of National Tourist Office Representatives), CTO (Caribbean Tourism Organisation) UK Chapter and PATA (Pacific Asia Travel Association) UK. He has spent over £10m in marketing and run several PR campaigns, so has a good understanding of what works and doesn’t.

Keeping his knowledge relevant and up to date is important to Jean-Marc. This is why he maintains a close working relationship with both the University of Surrey visiting annually to share his expereinces.

JD Douglas

International Producer Playwright and Director

JD Douglas, an accomplished international Producer, Playwright, and Director, boasts a BSc Honours Degree in Economics from Cardiff University. His theatrical works have graced prestigious venues across England, including The Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall, Alexandra Theatre, Ashcroft Theatre, and Apollo Theatre. With production experience at Wembley Arena and Birmingham Symphony Hall, he orchestrated Jamaica’s 50th Independence Celebration Concert. Notably, he co-produced and scripted the acclaimed stage musical “Black Heroes In the Hall of Fame,” a seminal production on Black Historical Achievement staged in London’s West End. Douglas’s published works include “Caribbean Man’s Blues,” “Paul Robeson: A Portrait,” and “Storms of the Heart.”

Bashir Dan

CEO, Stack Carbon

Bashir Dan is a visionary leader at the forefront of merging climate action with social upliftment. As the founder and CEO of Stack Carbon, an  innovative carbon removal startup in Africa, he pioneers solutions that accelerate permanent carbon drawdown while empowering smallholder farmers. With over three years of experience spanning carbon asset development, offset trading, and policy advisory, Bashir advises governments, corporations, and NGOs on market-based climate mitigation strategies. Named among the top 10 most-read thought leaders in carbon markets globally and serving as an IRENA peer educator, he is widely respected for catalyzing climate action while fostering inclusive prosperity.

Yvonne Apiyo Brändle-Amolo

Swiss Parliamentarian, Activist & Artist, Parliament of Switzerland

Yvonne Apiyo Brändle-Amolo is a Swiss Parliamentarian, representing the Social Democratic Party and advocating for minorities. She chairs the European Minority Parliamentarians Caucus and the Pan African Women’s Association. As a former OHCHR Person of African Descent fellow and certified transcultural mediator, she utilizes her expertise to combat societal injustices. Renowned for her Femme-artivism, she employs mixed media like Swiss yodel, sculpture, and video to challenge discrimination. Her short film “Not Swiss Made” won 18 global awards, highlighting racism in Switzerland. Ms. Brändle-Amolo, a Harvard University certified Extended Reality expert, pursues an interdisciplinary PhD in Politics, Gender, Diversity, and Technology at the University of Maastricht, Holland

Kevin Mtai

International Environmentalist & Climate Activist

Kevin Mtai, a passionate Kenyan environmentalist, is dedicated to defending the climate. He is an ambassador for World Refill Day 2023. Kevin is a former event coordinator at MockCop. As a co-founder of KEAN, he supports activists and sustainability leaders. Serving as the Co-Founder and Global Development Director at Earth Uprising, Kevin advocates for climate education globally running environmental projects in Kenya and Africa. He plays a pivotal role in coordinating the Loss and Damage Youth Coalition, fostering crucial discussions on the impacts of climate change. Through his multifaceted efforts, Kevin tirelessly works towards a more sustainable future, driving awareness and action in his community and beyond.

Ademola Adeyeba

Founder & CEO, Get Hench & 1000 Black Boys CIC

Ademola is a Mindset, Transformation and Leadership coach. He is the founder of two businesses – coaching, people development and sales training company Get Hench and social enterprise 1000 Black Boys.

He has appeared on BBC Radio London, Sky One, The New Statesman, The Voice and has been featured in Forbes and other publications.

He has two decades business experience, mostly in the corporate events industry and he is a highly trained leadership coach.

Ademola loves vision, and his personal vision is to see people living inspiring and purposeful lives, this is the inspiration for 1000 Black Boys and Get Hench.

Remmie Male

Founder/ED, Women of Valor Foundation, Uganda

Remmie Male is a dynamic serial entrepreneur, author, and advocate for women’s empowerment. With a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from Makerere University, she founded Jamboree et Rendezvous, an events management firm, before venturing into various other enterprises. As the founder of Women of Valor Foundation, she dedicates herself to empowering women and youth through mentorship and entrepreneurship training. Remmie is also the Continental Executive Secretary for Commonwealth Business Women Africa and Global Executive Secretary for Pivoting in Heels. Her impactful work has been recognized internationally, and she continues to champion women’s advancement through her diverse skill set and unwavering dedication.

Ngozi Oyewole

President, Commonwealth Businesswomen Africa

Mrs. Ngozi Oyewole is a distinguished entrepreneur, advocate, and leader dedicated to empowering women and driving positive change in Africa. With over two decades of experience, she has established herself as a trailblazer in various sectors, particularly in business, mentorship, and philanthropy. Mrs. Oyewole holds prominent positions in several organizations, including Commonwealth Business Women Africa, Womanprenuer Africa, and the Association of Business Women in Commerce and Industry. She is recognized for her leadership in promoting women’s inclusion and youth empowerment, as well as her commitment to gender equality and economic justice. Through her initiatives, such as Noxie Limited and the Beatrice Chiebonam Foundation, she continues to make a significant impact on society, inspiring women across Africa and beyond.

Leon Owusu

Global cyber Security, Barrier Networks

Leon has been operating within the cyber field since 2019 where he’s worked with numerous organisations globally to help them with their cyber security challenges. This ranges from but not limited to consultancy, advisory, procurement, visibility, SIEM, SOC, MDR, assessments and so on.

As a senior sales professional he has been closely involved with how the cyber security industry has grown and changed since 2019. With the emergence of A.I and machine learning it is now an even more important time for organisations and governments to make sure cyber security practices are fit for purpose. He is a key personnel within Cyber Security for bringing and integrating Cyber Security Practices to BAME and Ethnic Diversity teams and groups.

Lawrence McEwan

Cybersecurity Executive, HOOP Cyber Ltd

Lawrence is a seasoned cybersecurity director with over 15 years of experience in protecting digital infrastructures and sensitive data. Passionate about shaping robust cybersecurity strategies and ensuring the resilience of organisations in the ever-evolving digital landscape, he brings extensive expertise in leading high-performing teams and implementing cutting-edge security solutions across diverse industries. With a proven track record in defining and optimising cybersecurity frameworks, his focus is on risk reduction, controls improvement, and compliance. As a forward-thinking cybersecurity professional, he has shaped roadmaps for small, medium and multi-national organisations, outlining clear control improvement, maturity targets and strategic flights.

Professor Doirean Wilson

Fellow, European SPES Institute

Dr. Doirean Wilson, an Associate Professor of Business Sustainability, assumes the role of UK Chair of the G100 Club, a prestigious assembly of influential women leaders worldwide. Comprising Nobel Laureates, former Heads of States, and businesswomen, G100 aims to empower women and advise multilateral institutions like the UN. Dr. Wilson also serves on the Advisory Stakeholder board of the Police Race Action Plan, fostering trust in policing among Black communities. Recognized as one of the HR Most Influential Top Thinkers for 2023, her profound insights distinguish her as a thought leader. With multiple awards as an internationally recognized diversity expert, Dr. Wilson’s impact resonates globally.

Martina Castiglioni

Diaspora Engagement and Migration & Climate Change Lead, IOM UK

Martina Castiglioni is the Diaspora Engagement and Migration & Climate Change Lead at IOM UK. Much of her work focuses on promoting a better integration of migrants and diaspora as key agents across development, humanitarian and climate action policy and programming.

She currently manages the Diaspora for Climate Action (D4C) project which aims to contribute to global climate action by building stronger connections between diasporas in the UK and countries of origin. The project focuses on Bangladesh, Ghana, Jamaica and Moldova.

Martina holds an MSc in Disaster, Adaptation and Development from King’s College, London and BA degree in International Relations with emphasis on Migration & Refugee Studies.

Alim Kamara

Spoken Word Thought Leader

Over the past 20 years, the founder of Storie Storie, Alim has taught workshops, run assemblies, delivered presentations, and performed at hundreds of schools across London, the UK and globally – including India, Sierra Leone, Dubai, USA, Peru, Amsterdam, Mexico, Kenya, and Canada. At least 50,000 boys and girls have witnessed and been impacted by Alim’s creative stories. His high-energy delivery and thought-provoking poems and fables have taught children and young people the importance of self-esteem, creative expression, identity, culture and history.However Alim’s impacts goes beyond the classroom. Working with prestigious institutions such as Ministry of Defence, Channel 4, and Amnesty International, he uses the old age craft of the spoken word to empower leaders and promote inclusive societies.

Prince Ifoh

African Youth Leader & Activist, Young African Leaders Journal of Development

Prince Ifoh is a prominent pan-African activist, renowned for founding the Young African Leaders Forum, dedicated to empowering youths and cultivating future African leaders. As the chief editor of the Young African Leaders Journal of Development (YALJOD), he pioneers Africa’s premier youth-led journal. An esteemed alumnus of the Teach for All network, Prince possesses extensive expertise in teaching, community engagement, and leadership development. His exceptional community service has garnered international acclaim, earning him prestigious awards such as the African Union Youth Hero Award, Gathering of Africa’s Best recognition, British Award for African Development, and The Africa We Want Award.

Dr. Coreen Jacobs-Chester

Lecturer, University of Guyana

Dr Coreen Jacobs-Chester is a Lecturer at the University of Guyana within the Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Government and International Affairs. Dr Jacobs-Chester is passionate about forced migration and its effects on the migrants in the receiving countries. Dr Jacobs-Chester has an MSc in Global Studies from the University of the West Indies, St Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago and she recently graduated with a Doctor in Philosophy in Interdisciplinary Studies from Fiji National University. Dr Jacobs-Chester also loves languages and has taught English, Spanish, Portuguese and French for a number of years. She is fluent in Portuguese since she graduated with a degree in Portuguese from the Federal University of Ouro Preto, Brazil.

Rosmarie Cadogan

Legal & Policy Consultant

Rosemarie Cadogan is a Legal and Policy Consultant with strong analytical skills and progressively responsible experience in technical assistance projects, providing advice and recommendations to governments on environmental governance frameworks, maritime jurisdiction acquisition, integrated ocean governance and sustainable transportation. With lived experiences and diaspora engagement in Guyana, the Caribbean, the UK and Canada, Rosemarie holds a master’s degree in marine and environmental law from Dalhousie University, Canada, a post graduate diploma in international studies from the University of Guyana, a bachelor’s degree in law from the University of the West Indies and Prince 2 certification in project management from the University of Westminster,UK

Dr. Carolyn Walcott

Director, University of Guyana Centre for Communication

Dr. Carolyn Walcott is a media and communications specialist with expertise in journalism, international communication, and media development. She has worked with state media, NGOs, and IGOs, including the CARICOM Secretariat and UN agencies. In 2007, she joined the University of Guyana’s Center for Communication Studies after 15 years in media to mentor students and build human capacity. Dr. Walcott teaches Communication Law and Public Speaking in the US and administers UG’s Masters in Communication Studies. She holds degrees from the University of Guyana, Ohio University, and Georgia State University.

Michaelle Kubwimana

CEO, Rwanda Business UK & Kawah Coffee

Michaelle Kubwimana, a Rwandan entrepreneur based in London, is the visionary founder and CEO of both Kawah Coffee and Rwanda Business UK. Drawing on her extensive experience, she crafts and oversees robust professional networks. With a deep understanding of networking, pivotal role in business expansion, Michaelle fosters strategic alliances between Rwandan and UK entities. Her unwavering dedication ensures Rwanda Business UK’s network thrives, enabling fruitful partnerships and collaborations. Through her leadership at both Kawah Coffee and Rwanda Business UK, Michaelle Kubwimana emerges as a dynamic force, catalyzing synergistic connections and nurturing growth across local and international spheres.

Kevin Mtai

Co-Founder, Kheri Environment Action Network

Kevin Mtai is a dedicated climate defender and environmentalist, Co-founder of the Kheri Environment Action Network (KEAN), advancing ecosystem restoration and climate education since 2020. He holds the role of Communication Coordinator at the Loss and Damage Youth Coalition and serves as an ambassador to UN OCHA. As a youth champion for the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, Kevin actively advocates for a sustainable future. . Kevin’s leadership reflects his unwavering commitment to environmental advocacy and transformative change.

 

Rushab Shah

CEO, OneHive

Rushab brings his deep expertise across mechanical and digital technologies and how they can be applied to infrastructure, transport, and operations to develop a net zero future. He has led initiatives spanning micromobility, hydrogen ecosystems, and digital ecosystems to accelerate decarbonisation, including the £34 million ZEFES Programme for zero-emission trucking across Europe. With a broad understanding of how various energy vectors interconnect, Rushab is at the forefront of tackling complex global sustainability challenges. As CEO of OneHive, he continues to apply this knowledge, building AI-powered platforms to empower future leaders in the transition to a sustainable, net zero world.

Denell Florius

Co-Founder, EcoCarib 

Denell Florius, recognized as OECS 30 under 30 and a Connect4Climate Young Climate Innovator, is a determined entrepreneur hailing from Saint Lucia. As the Co-founder of EcoCarib, a Green Technology Group Energy Company, he spearheads initiatives in renewable energy and green technology. EcoCarib offers customized platforms for affordable solar electricity, integrating energy management, solar energy, battery technology, electric vehicle charging, and financing systems. Denell also serves as a director at the Alliance for Green Innovation and Technology, driving the adoption of the Green Economy in Saint Lucia. With a decade of experience, he is celebrated regionally and internationally for his contributions to the Green Energy Space, aspiring to transition the Caribbean to a sustainably greener future through innovation

Dr. Keith Nurse

 

President of the College of Science Technology and Applied Arts Trinidad and Tobago

Dr. Keith Nurse, President of the College of Science Technology and Applied Arts Trinidad and Tobago, boasts a distinguished career in academia and international organizations. Formerly Principal and CEO of the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College in Saint Lucia, he held prestigious roles as World Trade Organization Chair at the University of the West Indies and Director of the Shridath Ramphal Centre for Trade Policy, Law, and Services. With extensive experience as Executive Director of the UWI Consulting Company and as a Senior Economist at the OECD Development Centre, Dr. Nurse is also an expert member of the UN Committee for Development Policy. Additionally, he chairs CaribbeanTales World-wide Distribution Inc. and co-founded CaribbeanTales Incubator, showcasing his commitment to Caribbean cultural promotion.

Sandra Murphy

Managing Director – Equidiet (UK) Ltd

Sandra Murphy is an Equine Scientist born of Caribbean descent. She has been involved with horses for over 50 yrs as a rider, trainer and breeder. Since 1983 she has resided in rural Lincolnshire where she joined the RAF and became the 1st ‘Ethnic Minority Female’ to compete in Equestrian for the military in history. After leaving the forces and graduating with a BSc (Hon), she later went on to help save the lives of horses around the world by creating the 1st patented liquid feed for horses and working closely with the Department of Business as an East Midland Export Champion, which has been exporting to Equine Hospitals, Clinics and organisations in 32 countries worldwide. Her mission is to educate and inspire as well as to bring our innovation to horses across the globe.

Tariq Brown

Grace Kennedy Birthright Programme Ambassador

Equipped with a Finance and Business BSc degree, Tariq Brown brings global internship experience across Malaysia, the UAE, Malta, and most recently participating in Grace Kennedy’s Birthright Programme In Kingston, Jamaica. Hisinternational exposure has given him a key insight into global business, fueling a passion for cultivating sustainable growth. With over six years of working with local grassroots charities, focused on youth empowerment and facilitating creative spaces that have amplified hundreds of underrepresented voices.

Beth Knight

Beth Knight is a leading figure in social impact and sustainability. With over 15 years of experience in leadership roles at major companies including Lloyds Banking Group, Amazon, and EY. Beth also holds non-executive positions with the British Tourism Authority and Save the Children and is a Senior Associate at the University of Cambridge Institute of Sustainability Leadership. 

Beth’s expertise extends to sustainability standards with advisory roles on GRI, CSRD, and TISFD working groups. She has also played a crucial role in increasing diversity within the sustainability sector by launching a UK apprenticeship program. Recognized for her contributions, Beth was named the Great British Businesswoman Award in 2022/23. Her work during the COVID-19 pandemic and humanitarian aid response to the war in Ukraine has further solidified her reputation as an innovator in social impact.

Natalie Rybova

Senior Business Origination Officer, UK Export Finance

Natalie is a Senior Business Origination Officer at UK Export Finance, the UK Government’s export credit agency. Natalie works in the departments Business Group and is responsible for originating viable business opportunities that have a UK export nexus across the Americas, Caribbean and Europe. Before joining UKEF, Natalie worked in consumer goods marketing and prior to that, worked for a private equity research firm, where she supported global PE firms with their investments into technology and software.

Anne Welsh

Co-Founder, Arise Consult

Anne Welsh co-founded Arise Consult in 2014 to offer comprehensive services for businesses and investors in Africa, leveraging local expertise for global results. Arise Consult has disrupted the communication and investment services industry, delivering innovative financial solutions across multiple African countries, including Nigeria, South Sudan, and Ghana. Anne also leads Painless Universal, a health platform promoting awareness of pain and mental well-being. As a Women’s Advocate and global Sickle Cell awareness leader, she has appeared on various media platforms and engages in advocacy for women’s rights, poverty alleviation, and financial literacy. She holds degrees in Accounting, Finance, and Investment Management.

Thank you

FOR YOUR SUPPORT

FOR A BETTER FUTURE