Thelma Ekiyor

Thelma Ekiyor is an award-winning global leader in women’s economic empowerment, philanthropy, impact investing, and international development, with over 25 years of experience across Africa, Europe, and the UK. Starting her early career in women, peace and security, Thelma went on to pioneer and lead multiple organisations, including as founding CEO SME.NG, Afrigrants, TY Danjuma Foundation and the West African Civil Society Institute (WACSI).

Thelma is also a doctoral researcher on women’s entrepreneurship at Cranfield University UK. She holds an MBA from Imperial College London and an LLB from the University of Buckingham, UK. She has served on numerous boards and investment committees in Africa and Europe, with additional expertise spanning gender lens investing, catalytic finance, philanthropy advisory, and entrepreneurship development.