ABOUT
Our Team
The Council for Advancement of African Canadians in Alberta (CAAC), operating as Africa Centre, was incorporated in 2006. The City of Edmonton under the leadership of Mayor Stephen Mandel, embraced the concept and supported the services and programs that Africa Centre delivered over the past decade.
Samuel Juru
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Executive Director
Emmanuel Onah
DIRECTOR, OPERATIONS, COMMUNICATIONS AND YOUTH PROGRAMS
Emmanuel Onah
Director, Operations, Communications and Youth Programs
Emmanuel Onah is a seasoned leader with over 13 years of progressive leadership coupled with extensive experience in the non-profit sector, focusing on governance, operations, program design, program management, and strategic planning. With a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, specializing in Criminology, and a minor in Computer Science, Emmanuel currently serves as the Director of Operatations, Communications and Youth Programs at the Africa Centre.
Emmanuel oversees the Operations, Communications and Youth Programs departments in his role, expertly guiding the Centre’s initiatives to achieve impactful outcomes that benefit over 15,000 youth, refugees, and immigrants annually. His effective management techniques enhance service delivery and drive positive, sustainable results across all facets of the Centre’s activities.
Emmanuel is deeply committed to designing and implementing transformative initiatives that enhance community well-being, promote economic empowerment, and expand educational opportunities. His leadership is marked by a strategic integration of partnership cultivation, research-based strategies, and data-driven methodologies, which significantly increase the effectiveness and reach of the Centre’s programs.
As the Capital Project Lead for the African Multicultural Community Centre (AMCC), Emmanuel spearheads one of the centre's most ambitious projects: fostering a robust, inclusive community space that resonates with the diverse needs of the communities of African descent. His prowess in securing substantial funding and catalyzing growth is crucial as he leads the development of this vital community resource.
Emmanuel’s role at the Africa Centre demonstrates his unwavering dedication to fostering collaborative and compassionate programs with a strong emphasis on health and wellness. His visionary leadership and commitment to advancing high-impact, inclusive community initiatives are instrumental in propelling the Centre toward achieving its long-term goals and making a significant societal impact.
Proscovia Nabafu
DIRECTOR, FINANCE
Proscovia Nabafu, CPA,CGA,ACCA
Director, Finance
Proscovia is a Member of CPA Alberta, CGA Canada. She has a Degree in Business Administration, Accounting option and studied the Accounting Designation - Association of Chartered Certified Accountants- UK. In addition, she is a Licensed Immigration Consultant (RCIC).
With almost 15 years of experience in Finance and Accounting, 10 of which were in managerial capacities, Proscovia has established herself in her filed of practice as well as Financial Reporting, Grant Accounting and Donor, Reports, Audit and Human Resource Management.
Proscovia pays attention to details and community engagement especial as it contributes to the Black community.
Abiola Alifa
FINANCIAL ANALYST
Abiola Alifa
Financial Analyst
Eve Uwamahoro
MANAGER, HUMAN RESOURCE & ADMINISTRATION
Eve Uwamahoro
Manager, Human Resource & Administration
As the Manager of Human Resources and Office Administration, Eve has a wealth of experience and expertise to the role. With over 12 years of experience in the field, Eve has demonstrated a track record of success in managing all aspects of HR and office administration.
Eve's extensive knowledge of HR policies and procedures allows for the smooth management of employee recruitment, onboarding, and training. She works closely with all levels of management to ensure that HR policies are aligned with the organization's goals and objectives.
In addition to HR, Eve also oversees all aspects of office administration and is skilled in maintaining a productive and efficient office environment.
Eve is also committed to fostering a positive and inclusive workplace culture. She works closely with the leadership team to develop and implement programs that promote employee engagement, satisfaction, and retention.
Eve holds a bachelor’s degree in Administration from INILAK and currently pursuing a Bachelor of Human Resources and Labour Relations at Athabasca University, and is a student member of CPHR. In her free time, Eve enjoys singing and spending time with her family.
Shamim Malik
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Shamim Malik
Administrative Assistant (Head Office)
After achieving her degree in public relations from a University in Cape Town, Shamim stumbled into the industry of marketing, branding and promotions. This then grew her career into various industries specifically in Southern Africa, helping her achieve an award for her team.
Since immigrating to Canada, Shamim has invested her time in makeup artistry, administrative roles and most of all being a mother. In her free time, Shamim is obsessed with watching shows like Downton Abbey, Game of Thrones and The Witcher. When she is not watching her favorite shows, she keeps up to date with what is happening on the stock market.
Munashe Maguta
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Munashe Maguta
Administrative Assistant (Calgary)
Munashe Maguta graduated from the University of Alberta with Bachelor of Arts, Double
Majoring in Political Science and Women and Gender Studies.
Prior to joining Africa Centre Calgary, Munashe worked as an Administrative Assistant and
Supply Officer at Public Service and Procurement Canada. Munashe has a background in
research and planning as well as experience in marketing, CRM management, and event
coordination.
Munashe is passionate about creating and finding spaces for people of African descent. When
she is not working Munashe is reading, exploring the city, studying about herbalism or chatting
with strangers on the street.
Rahma Dalmar
MANAGER, COMMUNICATIONS
Rahma Dalmar
Manager, Communications
Liisa Otchie
COMMUNICATIONS & SOCIAL MEDIA ASSISTANT
Liisa Otchie
Communications & Social Media Assistant
Liisa Otchie joined Africa Centre community in late 2019 through her voluntary involvement with YEGTheComeUp. She recently completed a B.A. in Art and Design from the University of Alberta, with a focus on User Experience and Design for good.
Prior to joining the Africa Centre full-time, Liisa accumulated a variety of experiences in marketing, design, and communications, through paid internships and volunteer positions with organizations such as the Black Owned Market and YEGTheComeUp.
In her spare time, Liisa enjoys creating art and creative writing. Through her art, Liisa likes to tell stories inspired by Ghanaian and African culture as a whole. Her current artistic practice seeks to rediscover and study traditional African folktales – using them as inspiration to generate new ones.
Halima Mohamud
MANAGER, ENHANCING GENDER EQUITY
Halima Mohamed
Manager, Enhancing Gender Equity
Halima Mohamud is a registered Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in community work in the areas of resettlement, integration, and frontline support in social services. She has a unique perspective of working with immigrant groups and has always been an advocate for social issues and human rights. She has a strong sense of duty in advancing social issues that affect vulnerable groups and promoting gender capacity.
Halima holds a Bachelors’ Degree in Social Work with Honours from the University of Calgary. She continues to give back to the community in volunteerism and service on boards for various organizations.
Halima enjoys travelling and the outdoors; be it on rocky mountains, in her backyard or whenever possible.
Yawa Idi
COORDINATOR, MENTAL HEALTH & ENHANCING GENDER EQUITY
Yawa Idi
Coordinator, Mental Health & Enhancing Gender Equity
Yawa Idi first became involved with the Africa Centre as a volunteer for the youth collective - YEGTheComeUp. After a couple of years of volunteering she became a part of the youth research team with Dr. Bukola Salami to conduct research on the mental health of the African, Black and Caribbean community in Alberta which contributed to the creation of the mental health clinic within the Africa Centre.
She recently completed a degree in Psychology from the University of Alberta and aims to attain a Masters in Counselling Psychology in the near future. Yawa has committed herself to advocating for mental health awareness and initiatives in the Black community and is excited to expand the clinic in the best way possible.
In her free time she enjoys being outdoors, writing poetry and teaching herself new languages.
Kojo Otoo
SENIOR MANAGER, ENTREPRENEURIAL ENGAGEMENT
Kojo Otoo
Senior Manager Entrepreneurial Engagement
Kojo is a former banker with Standard Chartered Bank, Ghana, and Stanbic Bank Ghana (part of Standard Bank, South Africa). He comes with financial, leadership, and management experience of over 14 years. He holds a PhD from the University of Calgary in Educational Research (specialization in Adult Learning) with a focus on critical and social justice issues on marginalized and underrepresented groups in society.
As an addition to the Africa Centre team, Kojo brings a unique skill sets of client engagements, account management, and an understanding of what economic equity means to the black community. This firmly places him at the intersection of a professional who is well suited to help drive economic fairness, justice, and advancement of Black entrepreneurs in Alberta.
Fadumo Osman
MANAGER, ENTREPRENEURIAL ENGAGEMENT
Fadumo Osman
Manager, Entrepreneurial Engagement
Fadumo Osman graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain management from Macewan University and has worked in various organizations within Distribution and Warehousing.
She has enjoyed connecting with people in the course of her career journey and has had the opportunity to connect with people from various backgrounds and cultures. Fadumo now looks forward to helping African entrepreneurs grow their businesses and connecting them with the resources and knowledge to continuous development.
Ayodele Ajila
MANAGER, ENTREPRENEURIAL ENGAGEMENT
Ayodele Ajila
Manager, Entrepreneurial Engagement
Ayodele Ajila is an experienced business development and Credits Manager with close to two decades of working experience. He holds a Bachelor of Agricultural Technology degree in Animal Production and Health from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, and an Executive Master’s in Business Administration from the Lagos Business School (Pan Atlantic University, Lagos) both from Nigeria. He is a Certified Business Analysis Professional with the International Institute of Business Analysis.
Before joining Africa Centre, Ayodele worked in the Financial, IT, Consulting, and FCMG sectors in Nigeria and Canada. Ayodele comes with both financial and business leadership experience in treasury operations, credit risk management, corporate banking, customer relationship management, and business development.
Ayodele enjoys spending time with his family and volunteering his services to the underprivileged.
lopment.
Bernie Karabani
COORDINATOR, ENTREPRENEURIAL ENGAGEMENT
Bernie Karabani
Coordinator, Entrepreneurial Engagement
After moving to Edmonton in 2014 for post-secondary education from Tanzania where she was born and raised. Bernie found comfort in engaging and being part of her community. She is passionate about community building, thus her involvement with BOMYEG for two years. Supporting black owned businesses and creatives in the city; as well as helping to organize Chinatown dining week has prepared her for her current role as the Entrepreneurial Engagement Coordinator.
She has experience in customer service, volunteer management, event planning and organizing vendor markets. When she's not at work, Bernie enjoys visiting various markets in the city, volunteering, and exploring the growing food scene in Edmonton.
Bukola Adewumi
COORDINATOR, ENTREPRENEURIAL ENGAGEMENT
Bukola Adewumi
Coordinator, Entrepreneurial
Engagement
Bukola is a graduate of Sociology from University of Calgary and in her quest to broaden her knowledge through training and certifications, she is currently working towards obtaining a certificate in Human Resource Fundamentals and Non-Profit Management.
Bukola is passionate about empowering African descent immigrants to succeed in Canada and has worked for various non-profit organizations on the development and implementation of projects that are designed to promote and facilitate economic empowerment.
She is committed to working with African entrepreneurs to grow their business and thrive in Canada by connecting them with resources and necessary elements to overcome barriers.
Tolulope Adebayo
COORDINATOR, ENTREPRENEURIAL ENGAGEMENT
Tolulope Adebayo
Coordinator, Entrepreneurial Engagement
Tolulope Adebayo is an accomplished professional with extensive experience in brand marketing, event management, copywriting, and brand identity development. She has a remarkable track record of over 18 years in the marketing communications industry, where she has worked on a wide range of local and global brands spanning various sectors of the economy.
Her educational background includes a Master of International Law & Diplomacy from the University of Lagos and a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics from the University of Ilorin, Nigeria. Additionally, Tolulope holds a Diploma in Advertising from the Advertising Practitioner Council of Nigeria (APCON) and a Professional Diploma in Marketing from the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM-UK).
Tolulope's passion for branding and entrepreneurship extends beyond her professional career. She actively engages with black entrepreneurs, providing valuable resources and strategies to assist them in achieving success. Africa Centre gives her a bigger platform to foster more networking and growth opportunities for black-owned businesses in Canada.
Akorfa Mawutor
MANAGER, COMMUNITY CAPACITY AND DEVELOPMENT
Akorfa Mawutor
Manager, Community Capacity and Development
Akorfa Mawutor is a multilingual professional with over six years in Edmonton’s non-profit sector. She has experience in project coordination, academic research, publicity, and frontline work. She has a strong interest in food security, ending homelessness and promoting the African community in Edmonton.
She graduated from Campus Saint-Jean at the University of Alberta with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Biological Sciences and has a Certificate in International Learning in Cross-Cultural Relations from the University of Alberta.
Benard Serunyigo
MANAGER, COMMUNITY CAPACITY AND DEVELOPMENT
Benard Serunyigo
Manager, Community Capacity Building
Benard is PMP certified with over 7 years of experience in project management, sustainability development, and process improvement in the non-profit space. His approach to projects focuses on the needs of others and results in higher engagement, more trust, innovation and stronger relationships with both team members and external stakeholders.
Benard holds a bachelor's degree in commerce and an MBA in Finance from India, with a strong portfolio of over 10+ successfully managed projects centred around Gender Equality, Entrepreneurship, and Youth Engagement in Canada and the Global South.Outside of work,
He enjoys vlogging, recreational fishing and hunting. He also spends his free time working as a volunteer for local and international organizations.
Belinda Abudu
PROJECT COORDINATOR, COMMUNITY CAPACITY BUILDING
Belinda Abudu
Project Coordinator, Community Capacity Building
Belinda Abudu grew up in Ghana and relocated to Canada 11 years ago. She graduated from the University of Alberta with a BSc. in Psychology and, a minor in Music.
Belinda has experience working with high-risk youths who have a history of trauma and neglect. She utilized relationship-building skills in her work to empower, motivate and be a positive role model for the youths. She takes pride in advocating for young people and promoting change in the community. She enjoys listening to music and relaxing with a good book in her spare time.
Irene Ngoy
PROJECT COORDINATOR, COMMUNITY CAPACITY BUILDING
Irene Ngoy
Project Coordinator, Community Capacity Building
Irene has always wanted to work in a field where she gets to advance social issues and human rights. Her passion for human rights led her to complete a BA in Conflict Studies and Human rights and Political Science from the University of Ottawa.
Since 2018, she continues to volunteer in various organizations and has worked with a Congolese-based organization that focuses on youth participation in positive change as the Project Coordinator on Hate Speech.
A music, film, book enthusiast, Irene enjoys art and hopes to see all her favorite musicals in person one day.
Safia Moke
PROJECT COORDINATOR, COMMUNITY CAPACITY BUILDING
Safia Moke
Project Coordinator, Community Capacity Building
Safia Moke is a determined young woman filled with positive energy. Safia was born in the Democratic Republic of Congo and was raised in Montreal, where she completed all her studies. After high school, she began her law studies, but the passion for business called her. Thus, she obtained her Bachelor's Degree in Business Management from the University of Quebec In Montreal (UQAM).
Safia is a mother of 2 boys. She is passionate about event planning, she likes to encourage women to start a business and above all to believe in their abilities. She believes that every woman has a gift within her and that it must be developed. Safia is a business owner and is the head of a women's organization; Powerful Woman of Influence, which aims to encourage women to know their identity and recognize their worth in Christ.
Tawa Nzekwu
YOUTH PROGRAMS MANAGER
Tawa Nzekwu
Mentorship & Leadership Coordinator
Tawa Nzekwu is program coordinator with strong experience in project planning, competency in building and maintaining strong effective rapport with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. Highly skillful in qualitative and quantitative data collation, with experience working in front line human services and extensive knowledge and explicit understanding of institutional and societal barriers faced by immigrants and refugees.
Tawa’s wealth of experience in communication, project management, data collation comes from the opportunity of working indifferent fields such as consulting, retail, field research, behavior modification therapy and working for profit and non-profit organizations with work locations spanning across North America, Europe, and Africa.
Tawa has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Certificate in Community Support Work, and is constantly broadening her knowledge through certifications and trainings. Tawa is empowered with the strategies that are required in working with immigrants in a multicultural context and is passionate about human relations, communication and volunteering.
Liyu Makonnen
PARSSY PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Liyu Makonnen
PARSSY Program Coordinator
Liyu was born and raised in Ethiopia, where she was educated and begun to build her career, until she came to Canada in 2013. Liyu is a sociologist by profession and was privileged to be part of various community programs both in Ethiopia and Canada.
She has ample experience in serving her community at different capacities and community members mostly targeted by her services were children, youth and women. She is now serving as a volunteer coordinator in her Autism support group, which is a passion that comes from her love for community services and most importantly from her personal experience of raising a son in the Autism spectrum. Liyu’s service in both Edmonton Public Schools and Edmonton Catholic schools was directed to children in the early learning setting. Liyu has now accepted a new challenge to work with at risk youth, to make sure that they receive trauma informed care and services, at the Arica Centre.
Most of Liyu’s outside of work time is spent with family, caring for her three children and quality time with her husband. Liyu finds a lot of joy in painting, doing crafts and reading. She enjoys her volunteer work at her church Sunday School along with her close friends.
Liyu has a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and a Master’s Degree in Gender Studies, both from Addis Aabab University, Ethiopia.
Yar Anyieth
COORDINATOR, YEG THECOMEUP
Yar Anyieth
Coordinator, Yeg The Come Up
Yar is a recent graduate who studied Political Science and Sociology. She accredits her education and life experience for instilling her passion for the community. Through coordinating YEG TheComeUp, she aspires to create a space where Black youth can learn, grow, and ultimately empower themselves and their communities. In her spare time, Yar enjoys reading, watching documentaries and shopping.
Kaiha Marah
COORDINATOR, UJIMA FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM
Kaiha Marah
Coordinator, Ujima Fellowship Program
Kaiha Marah is a mental health advocate and a recent graduate from the University of Alberta with a B.A in Psychology. She is passionate about discussing mental health and personal development through mentorship, which she leverages while working with youth from marginalized communities.
In her free time, Kaiha enjoys podcasting, trying new foods, and spending time with her loved ones.
Eleonore Tchayam
COORDINATOR, ROTARY EARLY LEARNING CHILDCARE
Eleonore Tchayam
Coordinator, Rotary Early Learning & Childcare
Eleonore is a Daycare Program Coordinator at Africa Centre. She joined the Africa Centre in November 2017 and she has over 7 years experience in the Child care field, holding a Child Care Supervisor Diploma. Eleonore enjoys the challenging Daycare environment, where she implements and plans programs to ensure best practices for optimal child development, as well as administering the Daycare service.
Prior to working in the Child care service, Eleonore also has over 10 years experience in human administration in Cameroon. Eleonore speaks both English and French. She is preparing for her degree in Professional Bachelor in Human Administration at MacEwan University.
Aurelia Uarsama
COORDINATOR, SENIORS ENGAGEMENT & WELL-BEING
Aurelia Uarsama
Coordinator, Seniors Engagement & Well-being
Aurelia has been involved in the non-profit sector in Canada and abroad for over a decade. She worked in project development and design for education, social change and empowerment of girls and women in areas of human rights, gender equity as well as diversity. She has worked in Higher Education Institutions both as a researcher and project manager in various continents. She has been volunteering in Edmonton as a Board Member of various organizations. She holds a Master’s Degree in Sociology from the University of Bologna, Italy and a Masters Degree in Education from the University of Alberta.
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