Nikos Avlonas is a recognized leader who has received multiple awards in Corporate Sustainability and Social Entrepreneurship. Nikos is founder and President of the Centre for Sustainability & Excellence (CSE) a global Sustainability Strategic Advisory and Training firm with activities in North America, Europe, MENA and Asia.

Nikos has been awarded in 2021 as Top 100 Environmental Leaders in US by the Environmental Leader Magazine, in 2018 by Silicon Valley Community Foundation, the largest foundation in US, and as Practitioner of the year in 2017 by PR News for setting new standards of excellence. He was also awarded for teaching excellence from AUEB in 2020.

He is a well-known international speaker in topics related to ESG and CSR and has delivered speeches and educated professionals in North America, Europe, Middle East and Asia.

He was an Adjunct Professor at DePaul University and University of Illinois(UIC) in Chicago since 2015 and currently is an awarded visiting Professor at Athens University of Economic and Business (AUEB), MBA international program. Nikos specializes in Sustainability, Corporate Responsibility, Carbon Reduction and Impact Investment (ESG ratings). During the last 20 years he has carried out numerous projects in leading organizations, including Fortune Global 500 Companies, such as Nestle, Heineken Group, Coca Cola, ΑΒΜ, Pfizer, Deutsche Post, Under Armor, the European Investment Bankand the Lloyds Banking Group.

Additionally he has extensive international experience in executive training & coaching having trained over 5,000 managers worldwide including executives from NASA, Shell, WalMart, Home Depot.

He is Vice President of the Corporate Responsibility Institute since 2007, a non for profit organization for CSR performance evaluation and benchmarking (based on the Business in the Community Index-BITC).

Additionally he was founder and Co-Chair of the Chicago Chamber of Commerce Sustainability Strategy Committee and board member in the Green Meetings Industry Council (GMIC) in Chicago. Nikos is a visiting professor at University of San Francisco Master of Nonprofit Administration.

He was in the past program advisor to University of Chicago Graham School, Leadership in Sustainability Certificate and had lectured at a variety of Universities including the Kellogg School of Management, University of Texas in Arlington and Sheffield Hallam University (U.K). He is co-author of the books ‘’Practical Sustainability Strategies ‘’ published by Wiley in 2014 & 2020 which become one of the best selling books in this field and contributor to ‘’Management Models for the future’’ published in 2009.

He has published numerous articles & surveys in international and local magazines and newspapers on issues related to Sustainability, Corporate Social Responsibility & Governance, Climate Change, Business Excellence and he has given many interviews relevant to the above issues to international Media including Forbes, Fortune, CNN (GR), CNBC, CCTV, Voice of America, Ethical Performance and many others.

Dr. Lee-Ann Modley is a distinguished academic serving as Deputy Head of Department and Senior Lecturer at the University of Johannesburg, where she specializes in environmental management and sustainable development. Armed with a PhD in Environmental Management, Dr. Modley spearheads various initiatives in sustainable finance and climate change, making substantial contributions to environmental research and community engagement. She plays a pivotal role in shaping the academic landscape through her leadership and mentorship of postgraduate students.

Dr. Modley's extensive involvement in international advisory boards underscores her commitment to global sustainability efforts. Her roles as a Local Coordinator for South Africa in Una Europa's Virtual Exchanges for Sustainability, a member of the Scientific Advisory Board at RIMM Sustainability in Singapore, and a Local Director for the Sustainable Territorial and Development Masters at the Erasmus Mundus International Program attest to her broad influence in the field.

Additionally, Dr. Modley's active participation in various organizations and committees, such as the Premiers Expert Advisory Committee On Climate Change (PEACCC) subcommittee and the Green Building Council of South Africa's Task Force on Nature and ESG, highlights her dedication to advancing environmental causes at both local and international levels.

Recognized as one of the M&G Top 200 young South Africans in the 2022 cohort, Dr. Modley is a trailblazer in her field. Her academic journey, culminating in a Bachelor of Science in Natural Sciences, an Honours degree in Zoology, a Masters in Environmental Management, and a PhD in Environmental Management from the University of Johannesburg, reflects her unwavering pursuit of knowledge and expertise.

Furthermore, Dr. Modley's commitment to professional development is evident in her completion of various online courses on sustainable finance, climate change law and policy, sustainable reporting, and corporate governance. Her certifications from esteemed institutions like the Institute for Sustainability Leadership at Cambridge University underscore her dedication to staying at the forefront of environmental scholarship.

Dr. Modley's professional affiliations with organizations such as the South African Council For Natural Scientist Professions, the Water Institute of South Africa, and the International Water Association highlight her standing as a respected figure in the environmental community. Her multifaceted contributions to academia, research, and community engagement exemplify her passion for driving positive change in the realm of environmental sustainability.

Lwandle Mqadi is the Principal Specialist for Sustainability, ESRG and Impact for the Industrial Development Corporation. She leads and manages the IDC's Sustainability and Impact initiatives. Lwandle holds a PHD in Sustainability Transitions from Stellenbosch University and is a Resources Economist.

Mirriam Mueni is the ESG Manager at ZEP-RE (PTA Reinsurance Company), where she leads efforts to integrate sustainability into business operations and reduce the environmental impact of the company’s activities.

She holds two master’s degrees from the University of Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar: an MSc in Sustainability, Enterprise and the Environment and a Master of Public Policy, with research focusing on sustainable buildings and climate finance in Kenya.

Previously, she worked with Climate Risk Services Ltd in London, advising global financial institutions on ESG and sustainability, and with the Rhodes Trust, enhancing global scholarship outreach and diversity.

She has also contributed to impactful projects at the Fund for the City of New York and Equity Bank Group.

Committed to creating meaningful change, Mirriam combines her professional expertise with a passion for community service, including advancing social development projects and fostering partnerships with key stakeholders.

Through her work, she champions sustainability and governance practices that align with both organizational goals and societal needs

I am a global ESG and management consulting leader with deep expertise in strategy, business transformation, and sustainable growth.

As Global Head – Management Consulting & ESG Advisory at Lloyd’s Register, I advise executives and boards on how to embed sustainability into corporate strategy, drive transformation, and deliver outcomes that align performance with purpose.

Over my career with Lloyd’s Register, KPMG, Accenture Strategy, and Reliance Industries, I have led cross-border consulting practices, business development initiatives, and global transformation programs.

My role has consistently combined client impact with commercial leadership — from shaping market strategies and growing consulting portfolios to managing P&L responsibilities and expanding presence across North America, EMEA, and APAC. Beyond delivery and growth, I am committed to shaping the global conversation on sustainability, strategy, and transformation.

As a speaker, panelist, and advisor, I share insights on how organizations can navigate disruption, build resilience, and create long-term stakeholder value.

Nicole Martens is the head of impact investing research & ESG at Krutham.

In this role, Nicole works with finance-first and social-first clients, ranging from banks to philanthropies, to develop and implement mechanisms to improve social outcomes while meeting financial targets.

Nicole’s career to date has been dedicated to advancing Africa’s transition to a low-carbon economy and leveraging innovative finance mechanisms to achieve financial returns with positive environmental and socioeconomic outcomes.

Nicole joined Krutham from Old Mutual Investment Group where she was head of stewardship, engaging with listed companies on ESG strategy. Her 15-year career has covered impact investing and consulting, including as head of Africa and Middle East for the United Nation’s Principles for Responsible Investment. Nicole holds an MSc in Finance (Economic Policy) from the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London, and an Honours degree in Economics from Rhodes University.

Nicole sits on various committees and working groups, representing African investors and providing insights on international trends and development regarding responsible investment.

Loshni Naidoo is the Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) at the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE). She joined the JSE on 28 August 2023 and brings 18 years of climate change, sustainability services and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG).

Loshni’s role as CSO will focus on the JSE’s own sustainability efforts, the measurement of ESG metrics of its listed clientele, and reinforcing the bourse’s ongoing ambitions towards transformation, improved regulation and building a more sustainable future.

Her responsibilities for Sustainability at the JSE include products, services, strategy, and board reporting. She also represents the JSE on various industry advisory panels related to sustainability, responsible investing and climate change internationally.

Sustainability has always been at the core of her work across decades of multi-sectoral experience, from her start as a process engineer to her more recent consultative positions. Loshni embarked on her professional journey as a chemical engineer, immersing herself in the mining, agricultural, and chemical manufacturing sectors.

However, her passion for increasingly impactful work ultimately led her to further consulting roles where she crafted effective sustainability solutions for a diverse range of clientele.

This includes positions across the professional services, banking and accounting fraternities. In recent years, she has placed further emphasis on the evolution of sustainable practices and corporate social responsibility – incorporating the integrated thinking required for ESG strategies. Loshni holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering, a Bachelor of Commerce in Informatics, a Master’s in business administration, and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Future Studies.

Molatelo Motau is a seasoned sustainability extraordinaire with expertise in leading impactful sustainability projects across Africa.

He has successfully driven award-winning initiatives for top FMCGs and financial institutions, focusing on shared value creation and sustainable business practices.

Molatelo’s consulting experience spans key sectors, including climate change, circular economies, and agriculture, where he has helped organizations implement forward-thinking strategies.

As a board member for Metpac, Molatelo contributes to driving sustainability within the packaging industry, ensuring that circular economy principles are integrated into the sector’s growth.

Passionate about fostering inclusive communities, Molatelo has consistently worked at the intersection of business and sustainability, helping companies align their operations with broader environmental and social goals. He has also contributed valuable thought leadership in the sustainability space, with his insights featured in several global publications.

With a strong background in driving organizational change, Molatelo continues to work towards creating a more sustainable and equitable future for communities and businesses alike

Dr. Anyahara has more than twenty-two years of industry and regulatory experience with financial management & reporting, accounting standard setting and financial reporting regulation at the Financial Reporting Council (erstwhile Nigerian Accounting Standards Board).

He is currently the Director/Head, Directorate of Public Sector Accounting Standards, and formerly the Acting Executive Secretary/CEO of Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (from March 1, 2020 to May 18, 2021). Dr. Anyahara has held several leadership roles including as a member of the InterMinisterial Committee on National Chart of Accounts for Nigeria and the IPSAS GAP analysis Committee.

He previously served as the Secretary to the National Stakeholders’ Committee on the Roadmap to the Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) in Nigeria, approved by the Federal Executive Council under President Goodluck Jonathan.

Dr. Anyahara is member of several professional bodies including as a Fellow at the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and Association of Forensic Accounting Researchers, member Nigerian Institute of Management and Certified National Accountant.

He regularly speaks internationally about financial reporting regulation and the adoption of IFRS, IPSAS, anti-money laundering, corporate governance, sustainability reporting amongst other financial reporting related topics.

Iheanyi Anyahara held the Technical Advisory role to Christopher Nyong – International Public Sector Accounting Standards Board member - January to December 2022. He is currently the Chair of the Adoption Readiness Working.

Group (ARWG) for Sustainability Reporting in Nigeria. Iheanyi Anyahara holds a first-class honours degree and M.Sc. from University of Nigeria, Nsukka and MBA from the University of Port Harcourt. He holds a PhD in Accounting from Babcock University, Ilishan Remo, Ogun State.

Karen Basiye is a keen Sustainability Practitioner and a Corporate Environment Manager with 15 years’ experience. Over the years she has worked at the National Environment Management Authority and Safaricom where she developed competencies in Leadership, Governance, Strategic Thinking, Sustainability Reporting (both Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), Social Policy, Corporate Environmental Management, Environmental Management Systems including ISO certification and Environmental policies, Environment Risk Management, Environmental Compliance Assessment, Energy and Climate change policies, Strategies for Sustainable Development, Integrated Product Policies, Sustainable Consumption and Production and integration of Sustainable Development Goals into company strategies.

Karen holds a Joint Master of Environmental Science, Policy and Management degree from Lund University (Sweden), University of Manchester (UK), Central European University (Hungary) and University of the Aegean (Greece) www.mespom.eu and a Bachelor of Environment Science degree from Kenyatta University. Currently at Safaricom, Karen is the Director Sustainable Business Social Impact and The Foundations.

She is passionate about the interplay between People, Purpose and Profits. She has served at various University Councils, seats on the Governing Council of KEPSA as the Vice chair of the Environment Sector Board and is a Strategic Advisor on various Boards.

She has been recognised as an SDG Pioneer by the Global Compact Kenya. Contact: Tel: +254722540162 Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

Sheila is a sustainability professional who uses her unique blend of financial expertise and an understanding of sustainable development to drive positive change in agriculture and other sectors.

She has led organizations on large projects to promote sustainable agriculture practices, improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers, and address the impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities in Africa.

Additionally, she is an impact investment advisor, supporting businesses and investors to achieve their social and environmental impact goals. Professionally, she is a chartered accountant (CA (SA) and AZICA) who holds a Master’s degree in Sustainable Finance from the Frankfurt School of Finance & Management and is a member of the International Society of Sustainability Professionals.

DR Sibongile Mazibuko is a Deputy Director at the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (thedtic): Investment South Africa and Spatial Economic Development under the Green Economy Directorate.

With 15 years experience in International Trade and Investment Promotion, Green Economy industries, Dr Mazibuko has connected businesses across and Southern Africa market, ensured the feasibility of bankable projects, and fostered relationships between government, businesses and communities.

She has been invited to participate on several foundations, panels, task teams as well as being a key stakeholder for the Canon Collins Trust, University of Johannesburg (UJ) Alumni network, Nelson Mandela

Karen King is the Director of Climate Resilience at Atana in South Africa. She is a professional Hydrologist and Soil Scientist and a certified Water Stewardship Consultant. Karen holds an MSc in hydrology and an MA in social policy.

Her 19 years of professional experience has focussed on climate resilience, environmental risk and mitigation assessment, water resources planning, hydrological modelling, flood studies, water reuse, water stewardship and storm water management planning.

She also specialises in wetland delineation, land use assessments, local and international soil classification systems, soil capability and suitability assessments and associated management and monitoring plans.

She has been primarily involved in the environmental and engineering hydrology and soil science fields, initially as a soil science lecturer, and then as a hydrologist and soil scientist in various engineering and environmental consultancies both in South Africa and in the United Kingdom.

She has worked in many multi-disciplinary international teams in many countries.

Karen’s publications have covered a range of topics including climate resilience, land use planning, resilience in low-cost housing, water stewardship, the Just Energy Transition, Acid Mine Drainage and trans-boundary water sustainability.

Tony Okao Otoa serves as the Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), where he plays a pivotal role in advancing the company's corporate strategy on both national and international stages.

Previously, Tony held the position of CEO at the Stanbic Business Incubator, an organization dedicated to fostering the growth and development of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).

In this capacity, he was responsible for crafting strategies, overseeing operations, and executing development programs that have significantly benefited over 4,000 SMEs since 2018 by providing them with access to networking, market entry, and financial opportunities.

With a broad expertise that encompasses the Oil and Gas sector, entrepreneurship, communication strategy, and innovation, Tony’s experience extends across both Ugandan and British contexts.

At Total Exploration and Production, he served as National Content Manager and Public Affairs Manager, advocating for the integration of local SMEs within the oil and gas industries of Uganda and Tanzania.

A staunch proponent for legislative development in East Africa’s oil and gas sector, Tony has collaborated with civil society organizations in the UK and Uganda to support the planning and drafting of critical laws and regulations.

His dedication to championing Uganda's stature in the region's emerging oil and gas market has led him to speak internationally, addressing issues such as local participation, environmental protection, and effective revenue management.

Tony holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Law and an LLM in International Law.

Meghan is the Sustainable Finance lead at Carbon Trust Africa, specialising in advising financial institutions on decarbonisation strategies.

Her expertise includes portfolio footprinting, climate risk and opportunity assessment, and navigating climate-related regulations and frameworks such as carbon tax, CBAM and IFRS S2.

Prior to the Carbon Trust, Meghan worked at a premier African asset manager before transitioning into sustainability consulting.

She has advised multinational clients across diverse sectors on materiality assessments, ESG strategy development, sustainability frameworks, and financial and climate-related disclosures.

Meghan holds a master’s degree in climate change science and policy from Columbia University, where she conducted research on carbon finance applications for the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority.

Tamara Nerima is a Sustainability, Marketing, and Communications Director, dedicated to advancing sustainable transport solutions in East Africa.

As the Sustainability Project Lead for Scania in East Africa, she leads initiatives that drive decarbonization, policy advocacy, and stakeholder engagement to support climate-conscious business strategies.

Her work focuses on promoting low-emission transport, integrating sustainability into corporate strategy, and fostering industry-wide collaboration for a greener future. Tamara is a member of the Electric Mobility Association Kenya, where she contributes to advancing e-mobility adoption and regulatory frameworks.

She also serves as a board member of the Swedish East African Chamber of Commerce, helping strengthen sustainable trade and investment ties between Sweden and East Africa.

With a strong background in marketing, project management, and sustainability leadership, Tamara has successfully implemented impactful campaigns, including Scania’s Road Safety and Pollution Awareness initiative, which reached over six million children globally.

She holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management (Marketing) from the University of Sunderland and is a Certified Carbon Footprint Analyst.

Committed to climate action and sustainable business growth, Tamara continues to champion innovative solutions that align environmental responsibility with economic progress.

Ramla Msuya is a seasoned professional currently serving as the Head of Sustainability Programmes at CRDB Bank plc, where she leads the Sustainable Finance function.

With nearly two decades of experience, her expertise spans credit risk management, environmental and social risk management, and climate finance, positioning her as a key driver in transforming CRDB Bank into a regional leader in sustainable and responsible banking.

Ramla is a Certified Expert in Sustainable Finance (CESFi), a credential earned through the Frankfurt School in Germany in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

She holds an MBA in Finance from the University of Coventry, United Kingdom, and is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) accredited by the National Board of Accountancy and Auditors (NBAA).

Additionally, she completed a Board Competence, Leadership, and Rhetoric course offered by the Association of Tanzania Employers (ATE) – Female Future. Throughout her career, Ramla has achieved notable milestones.

She was appointed as an Advisor to a Board Member of the Green Climate Fund (GCF), the UN’s largest climate adaptation and mitigation fund headquartered in Songdo, South Korea, gaining access to the GCF Boardroom.

She led the successful accreditation of CRDB Bank to the GCF in November 2019 and spearheaded the development and submission of a USD 200 million funding proposal for the Tanzania Agriculture Climate Adaptation Technology Deployment Programme (TACATDP), which was approved by the GCF to support smallholder farmers in Tanzania.

She is currently overseeing the implementation of this impactful program.

Her leadership also includes the development of CRDB Bank’s first Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS), encompassing policies, procedures, and tools for assessing environmental, social, and climate risks in financed projects—standards accepted by international financiers.

Furthermore, Ramla is driving the deployment of proceeds from the bank’s Green (Kijani) Bond, issued recently, reinforcing CRDB Bank’s position as a pioneer in climate finance and a leading commercial bank in Tanzania with a comprehensive ESMS framework.

Marina is currently leading the integration of Sustainability in the investment of Africa 50's Infrastructure Acceleration Fund based in Morocco.

The fund reached first close in 2023 with targeted sectors in Power and Energy, Water and Sanitation, Transport and Logistics, and Digital and Social infrastructure.

Prior to this Marina was a Principal in the Sustainability team at Actis GP LLP, analyzing ESG risk and value creation opportunities in the due diligence of potential transactions, and the performance and monitoring of portfolio companies.

Actis is a leading sustainable infrastructure investor across growth markets globally. Marina led the Impact practice at Actis, aligning the business with the OPIM and contributing to market developments with industry bodies such as GIIN.

Her focus was on Energy and Infrastructure assets, and green Real Estate.

For the previous decade she was a sustainability consultant based in the UK with a focus on sub-Saharan Africa, advising public and private sector developers and investors on sustainability performance and risks.

This included Environmental and Social Impact Assessments, M&A advisory for ESDD with a focus on Resettlement, Livelihood Restoration, Community Investment and Stakeholder Engagement.

Dr. Azapmo is a senior trade economist and diplomat, with 21 years of professional experience of which 15 at managerial level, in setting strategic directions, designing and implementing policies, strategies and innovative programmes in the areas of inclusive trade, investment and sustainable development, economic integration, industrialization and mining, as well as good governance in Africa and the Pacific Region. At the African Union Commission,

Dr. Azapmo serves as Principal Adviser in the Department of Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals, where he plays a key role in advancing African trade and economic integration and establishing African Financial Institutions under Agenda 2063, decarbonization environmental social governance practices among the African private sector coordination of the AU Youth Start-Up Programme; establishing and strengthening partnerships and mobilizing of resource to advance regional integration.

Dr. Azapmo coordinates the work on inclusive and sustainable trade and investment. He led the study on ESG Practice among the African Private Sector, the workstream on decarbonization.

Following the admission of the African Union as a Permanent G20 Member, Dr. Azapmo coordinated the African Union’s participation in the G20 and development of positions during the Brazilian G20 presidency in 2024.

He delivered the African Union’s contribution to the G20 Compendium of Good Practices to Increase Women’s Participation in International Trade.

He currently coordinates the African Union’s participation in the Review of the G20 @ 20 and in the G20 Compact with Africa Advisory Group.

Prior to that, Dr. Azapmo supported the finalization and operationalization of African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement, led the establishment of the African Trade Observatory and coordinated the inaugural Intra-African Trade Fair.

He also coordinated the Trade Policy Dialogue Forum and the African Union eCommerce Conference series.

Prior to joining the African Union Commission in 2017, Dr. Azapmo served as National Trade Adviser to the Federated States of Micronesia in the Pacific region.

Dr. Azapmo began his career in 2024 in the Ministry of External Relations of Cameroon, where he worked and advised on issues of economic diplomacy, fighting corruption and post conflict reconstruction.

Dr. Azapmo has published on regional integration and trade and sustainable development, including corporate social responsibility, technology transfer, trade cost, and trade and human rights.

He holds a Ph.D. in trade law from the University of the Western Cape, South Africa, and Masters in regional law, international trade and investment law in Africa, and diplomacy, and Certificates in extractive industries and sustainable investment, green trade

Imtinen Hamlaoui is a sustainability leader with over a decade of experience advancing ESG integration, climate strategies, and sustainable investment across Africa.

She currently serves as Head of ESG and Sustainability at Spiro, Africa’s largest electric mobility company, where she leads the development of ESG frameworks, decarbonization pathways, and sustainability reporting systems across West and East Africa.

Previously, she was Group ESG Manager at Equitane and General Manager for Sustainability at ARISE IIP, where she shaped sustainability strategies across industrial zones, textile value chains, renewable energy, and other sectors, advised the Government of Benin on national climate policies, and strengthened investment alignment with international frameworks.

Imtinen participated as a national delegate at COP27 and as a high-level panelist at COP29. She holds an MBA and a degree in Chemical Engineering, is a certified GRI Sustainability Professional, and completed the Business Sustainability Management program at the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership, alongside certifications in carbon accounting and sustainable finance.

Ayub Osman is Director of Marketing, Communications, Sustainability & Corporate Responsibility for East and North Africa at Ericsson, covering 27 countries.

He leads cross-regional teams to drive customer engagement, strengthen business value, and deliver social impact.

With over 20 years of experience across Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, Ayub’s career blends sustainability, strategy, and commercial leadership in complex markets.

He has worked at the intersection of technology, energy, and environmental management, with contributions to the UN Environment Programme, Oxford Environmental Change Institute, and Oxford Internet Institute.

Earlier in his career, Ayub worked at PricewaterhouseCoopers on corporate finance, privatization, and infrastructure, advising governments and development agencies across Africa.

At Ericsson, he has held senior roles in sustainability, strategy, and commercial management, previously leading operations in Saudi Arabia and Egypt and delivering large-scale customer engagements and multi-country initiatives.

A Rhodes Scholar, Ayub holds an MBA in Finance & Strategy and an MSc in Environmental Management from the University of Oxford.

Alison Kieler is a sustainability professional with close to fifteen years of experience in African private equity and international development.

Alison currently leads sustainability efforts for the Alterra Africa Accelerator Fund, based out of Nairobi, Kenya, overseeing the development and implementation of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) risk management and development impact contribution programs in line with investor requirements.

Alison has significant experience in designing, implementing, and monitoring ESG management systems and improvement programs, developing corporate governance and change management solutions, and designing development impact initiatives.

Originally from the United States, she has resided in emerging markets for over six years

Nola is responsible for Vodacom Group’s ESG strategy, sustainable business execution and disclosure across the Vodacom footprint.

Nola drives integration of climate, human rights and social impact priorities into commercial and operational decision-making and represents Vodacom in regional and global sustainability fora and reporting initiatives

Rosemary Wahome is a globally recognized Sustainability Strategist and Business Leader, celebrated for transforming corporate requirements into competitive advantage.

Her expertise centers on guiding organizations beyond basic regulatory adherence, establishing them as Sustainability leaders who drive both tangible impact and long-term profitability.

She specializes in helping companies transition from a reactive compliance mindset to a proactive leadership mindset.

Rosemary is known for designing and executing comprehensive ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) strategies that optimize business operations, enhance stakeholder value, and secure organizational resilience

Molly James Concannon, Chief Sustainability Officer at GED Africa, brings extensive experience in stakeholder engagement and sustainable development across the mining and infrastructure sectors.

She has supported responsible sourcing initiatives with leading industry partners, advancing community-focused programs throughout the DRC and Zambia.

At GED Africa, Molly leads the Sustainability Department, overseeing the implementation of the project’s Resettlement Action Plan and the structuring of a multi-million-dollar Sustainable Impact Fund to drive longterm socio-economic growth.

Her work emphasizes aligning rural development activities with international good-practice standards, fostering strategic partnerships, and delivering impactful sustainability solutions for local communities.

Antoinette is a sustainability and climate change specialist who works with businesses and governments to support their sustainability ambitions.

She is experienced in energy and carbon management and leads the development of decarbonisation strategies and climate transition plans.

Her ten years' experience spans topics such as energy efficiency, renewable energy, clean energy access, e-mobility, carbon footprinting, carbon and climate finance, carbon taxes, and climate risks and opportunities.

Her work enables clients to navigate climate risks, reduce emissions, and build credible pathways to Net Zero. She holds a BSc Honors in Environmental Management from the University of Pretoria

Michelle Wanjiru is the Climate and Environment Manager for the UK-FCDO-funded Manufacturing Africa programme, where she leads ESG advisory support to investors and manufacturing businesses across East and West Africa.

She specialises in climate strategy, impact measurement, and sustainability integration for private-sector growth, helping companies translate ESG principles into operational value, resilience, and investment readiness.

Nomsa is an experienced executive with over two decades of leadership experience across Telecoms, Mining, Insurance, Finance, and Banking.

She led Group Sustainability at MTN until 2023, managing ESG efforts across 18 African and Middle Eastern countries, including net zero strategy and investments and the company's inaugural TCFD aligned – climate report.

Her work also included sustainability reporting, ESG governance, and policy development.

Previously, she directed Policy Affairs at ACCA South Africa, and consulted on sustainability innovations. Now at SAICA, she oversees sustainability and integrated reporting transformation.

Her strengths include climate change and mainstreaming governance, stakeholder engagement, innovation and embedding ESG strategies for long-term value throughout her career.

A recognised thought leader, Nomsa actively shapes the ESG agenda and capacity building through industry committees, deep regulatory expertise, and strategic partnerships.

Atharva Tembhekar is the Director of Lean Energy, a clean energy company driving industrial decarbonisation across Africa.

Under his leadership, Lean Energy has developed and implemented biomass-based heat and power solutions that replace fossil fuels, reduce emissions, and improve industrial competitiveness.

Atharva holds a degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Bath and an MBA from the University of San Francisco.

He specialises in biomass energy systems, energy efficiency, and sustainable energy transitions for manufacturing and agro-industrial sectors.

He has strong experience in collaborating with industries, investors, and development partners to promote scalable, locally driven pathways toward Africa’s low-carbon future.

Ms. Mercy Wanjiku Karanja is the Head of ESG at Naivas Limited, Kenya’s largest retail chain. She is responsible for Naivas' ESG integration and climate resilience projects.

She has over ten years of experience in sustainability strategy, ESG risk management, and compliance across retail, telecommunications, and manufacturing sectors.

Mercy's skills include ESG reporting, engaging stakeholders, and managing a sustainable supply chain that meets IFC and ISO standards.

She is very interested in promoting responsible retail and sustainable development in Africa. She is currently working on her Master's degree in Sustainable Development at the University of Sussex in the UK.

Dr. Beryl Okumu is the Founder of Dabarr Consulting, an African-focused advisory firm that supports animal welfare organizations, regional farmer platforms, and policy stakeholders to co-develop Equitable, Humane and Sustainable (EHS) Business Cases that uplift smallholder farmers, improve animal welfare outcomes, and strengthen climate-aligned food systems.

She is a veterinary surgeon (BVM, University of Nairobi) with postgraduate training in Health Informatics from George Brown College, Canada. Through Dabarr Consulting, Dr. Okumu provides strategic expertise in campaign mobilisation, stakeholder convening, policy influence, Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning (MEAL), and the use of Project Management Information Systems (PMIS) to generate evidence that informs decision making.

Her consulting work includes technical contributions to Kenya’s Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS), Ministries of Agriculure, Ministries of Wildlife, and Farmer Forums on animal welfare and animal health regulatory reforms; indicator development inputs that will support monitoring of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Regional Agricultural Sector Investment Plans (RASIPs) under the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) Kampala Declaration (2026–2035); and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) One Health advocacy through farmer and youth education during World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) and regional AMR fora.

As both a veterinarian and systems mobiliser, Dr. Okumu leverages evidence, partnerships, and people-power to shape humane, climate-smart and socially just food systems across Africa.

Steven W. Pearce is the Founder and CEO of Pearce Sustainability Consulting Group (PSCG), an international firm specializing in ESG planning, climate risk mitigation, and sustainable development strategies.

With over 13 years of global experience spanning the U.S., Africa, and the MENA region, he has advised the U.S. Department of Defense, USAID partners, and Fortune 500 corporations on sustainability frameworks and impact measurement aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

A recognized thought leader and Top 150 Global Sustainability Voice, Steven integrates predictive analytics and governance insights to transform ESG from a compliance exercise into a proactive climate security strategy.

His work emphasizes foresight-driven systems that anticipate risks, build resilience, and drive sustainable prosperity across emerging economies.

Rosalid Rwaru is the Head of Sustainability at Bio Food Products Ltd, a quality-led dairy processor in East Africa.

She spearheads the company’s sustainability, regulatory, and safety agenda - covering carbon footprint reduction, circular packaging, supplier stewardship, and water and energy efficiency.

Under her leadership, Bio Foods has achieved carbon neutrality for Scope 1 and 2 emissions, implemented Kenya’s transition to clear PET, and published the annual #GoSustainable Report 2023, showcasing Bio Foods' measurable ESG progress.

Rosalid also represents East Africa in international sustainability forums, including ISWA and UNIDO’s Circular Economy Program in Japan, and is passionate about creating value through partnerships that connect sustainable production with inclusive climate action.

Rose Wamalwa is a renowned community development practitioner and emerging researcher with over 20 years of experience in advancing gender-responsive climate action and community development across Africa.

Her expertise encompasses integrated programs focused on Climate Change, Ecosystem/Landscape Restoration, community-led conservation initiatives, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), and Governance.

Rose currently serves as the East Africa Regional Director at the Women’s Earth Alliance (WEA), overseeing programs in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda.

She is also the Lead Researcher for the pioneering Women’s Climate Centers International Kenya Project (WCCI-Kenya), which focuses on women-centered research at the intersection of Climate Change and Health.

As Co-Founder of Women in Water and Natural Resources Conservation (WWANC), she has mentored over 10,000 grassroots women as Climate Action Ambassadors and led the planting of over 700,000 trees across Kenya, including in the Kakamega Tropical Rain Forest and the MAU Forest Complex in Narok.

She holds a Master's degree in Development Studies and is currently pursuing a PhD in Climate Change and Adaptation at the University of Nairobi. Rose is dedicated to empowering communities, promoting sustainability, and championing environmental conservation efforts, with a commitment to fostering inclusive platforms for vulnerable communities to take center stage in climate adaptability and innovation

Michelle Mwambela is currently the Chief Executive Officer of the Association for Women in Energy and Extractives in Kenya (AWEIK), where she leads initiatives that empower women and promote sustainability in the extractive and energy sectors.

She is a highly accomplished professional with over 10 years of diverse experience in legal, natural resource management, climate and environmental justice advocacy, project management, and women's economic empowerment.

During her tenure at AWEIK, Michelle has led Climate Smart Mining Initiatives in mining areas in Kenya. Her strategic guidance spans climate justice, green economy, women's empowerment, and energy alternatives.

Michelle also plays a key role in policy and advocacy work in Africa’s energy and extractives sector as well as the climate change and Just Energy Transition discourse.

Hellen Awuor Okelo is a climate professional with experiences integrating climate finance, biodiversity conservation, and gender inclusion across Africa and in China.

She currently serves as the Coordinator of Carbon Removal Kenya, an industry association that supports, amplifies, and scales the growing Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) industry in Kenya.

Hellen has previously worked in climate consulting , renewable energy and finance industries, Her work focuses on bridging policy, finance, and community action to promote ecosystem resilience and equitable low-carbon development.

She is a graduate of the Yenching Academy of Peking University, where she earned a Master’s degree in China Studies, Politics and International Relations.

She also holds a Bachelors (Honors) in International Business and Trade from the African Leadership University, along with a Diploma in Conservation Leadership awarded by the university’s School of Wildlife Conservation, where she was recognized as one of Africa’s emerging young conservation leaders.

She brings a multidisciplinary perspective to sustainable development. Hellen has also founded a grassroots initiative focused on research and knowledge sharing at the intersection of climate action and women’s economic empowerment.

She is passionate about driving inclusive climate policies that empower communities, regenerate ecosystems, and accelerate just transitions toward a sustainable future.

Adewole Lawal is a seasoned sustainability professional with over 12 years of experience. He is an experienced ESG facilitator, coach, mentor and thought leader.

His experience cut across different sectors such as financial institutions (banking and non-banking), Oil and Gas, mining, FMCG, Agriculture, Telecommunications, Energy, among others. Adewole has deep understanding of prominent ESG standards and frameworks such as the IFC Performance Standards, World Bank EHS guideline, Equator Principles, UN SDGs, UN PRI, etc.

and including widely recognized reporting and disclosure standards such as the GRI standards. He started his career with the Centre for Public Policy Alternatives (CPPA) as Research Associate.

He also worked at EnvAccord as Senior ESG Consultant before moving to Guaranty Trust Bank as the unit head of sustainability.

He worked as the Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Manager at AB-In-Bev (International Breweries Plc).

Thereafter, he transitioned from Industry into consulting and worked as the pioneer ESG Manager at KPMG Nigeria.

He had also worked as a technical lead and Senior Sustainability Manager at Forvis Mazars in Nigeria.

He currently works as the group sustainability lead for EverCorp Industries where he supports subsidiaries companies in the Energy, Financial and Food & Beverage sectors on their sustainability journey.

As an ESG professional, he has delivered several sustainability services to clients such as Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS), stakeholder engagement and mapping, ESG strategy development, ESG reporting and assurance, ESG due diligence/Audit, ESG impact assessment, socio-economic studies, among others.

His proficiency extends to delivering ESG training; overseeing technical ESG projects; providing advisory and thought leadership on green financing, decarbonization, climate risk management and impact investing; and cultivating strong relationships with clients and partners to consistently deliver exceptional services.

His most recent experience includes speaking at conferences on renewable energy in Nigeria and NetZero transition in Ghana.

Adewole is a certified Lead Auditor, Environmental Management Systems (ISO 14001); Certified Lead Implementer, Occupational Health, and Safety Management Systems (ISO 45001); Certified Lead Risk Manager, Risk Management (ISO 31000), Certified Governance, Risk Management and Compliance Professional (GRCP) by OCEG, among others.

Adewole holds B.Sc and M.Sc in Sociology from University of Ibadan, Nigeria; M.A in Global and International Social Policy from the University of Sheffield, UK; and Executive MBA in Strategic Leadership from Quantic School of Business and Technology, USA. Additionally, he holds membership with the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM).

He is a recipient of Commonwealth Scholarships Award, and several other academic and professional awards.

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Valeriya Hjertenaes is CEO and Founder of "GLOBAL NEURODIVERSITY MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION", an acclaimed PhD researcher, international speaker, Awarded podcast host, and passionate advocate for diversity, sustainability, and human rights.

Originally from Kherson, Ukraine, and now residing between Paris and Norway, Valeriya's compelling journey exemplifies resilience, intellectual vigor, and compassionate leadership.

A recognized figure on global stages, Valeriya was awarded Mrs. World Congeniality in 2022-2023, a testament to her deep-rooted values ​​of empathy and inclusivity. Her academic journey, marked by Master's degrees in Finance, Knowledge Management, and Innovation Management, has culminated in her ongoing PhD research at NTNU.

Her groundbreaking research centers around how diversity management enhances sustainability performance and contributes positively to the triple bottom line (social, environmental, and economic outcomes).

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Ramji is an ESG and Impact Advisor with over 9 years of experience in environmental and social governance systems, sustainability strategy, corporate accountability, climate change, across East Africa.

His expertise spans the design, implementation, and monitoring of ESG frameworks that enable organizations to meet global sustainability standards while enhancing long-term impact.

Before joining Kenya Climate Ventures (KCV), Ramji served in key technical roles at the Northern Albertine Network on Environment and Petroleum (NANEP) under the WWF -UCO, OfD program, and RICE West Nile (Uganda).

In these positions, he supported partners in integrating ESG considerations into decision-making, reporting, and policy processes, and contributed to multiple initiatives focused on conservation, climate adaptation, and community resilience.

Ramji holds a bachelor's degree in environmental science, Technology and Management from Kyambogo University. He is deeply committed to advancing responsible investing and accelerating sustainability outcomes in Kenya & in the region.

Ismail Abukar Osman is the Executive Director of the Somali Environmental Development Organization (SEDO).

He is a dedicated Somali civil society advocate and climate change activist working to support communities affected by climate shocks, including recent El Niño impacts in Somalia.

His work focuses on building resilience, promoting early warning systems, and driving sustainable climate action in the region.

GLADYS KIVATI is a Sustainability and ESG Expert with more than 15 years' experience working with businesses and organization in Africa.

With technical expertise and training in Sustainability and Economics, Gladys’ work extends to businesses, financial institution , policy makers and investors on sustainable finance strategies and capabilities, with a focus on ensuring environmental, social, and governance integration results in positive impact and contribution to improved business and financial performance.

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