Executive Board
Ekpeno John Ukut
PRESIDENT
Ekpeno John Ukut
PRESIDENT
Ekpeno John Ukut is a distinguished international development strategist and transformational leader, recognized for his expertise in Communication for Development (C4D) and innovative ideation strategies for community development. As a theatrepreneur, celebrated author, and award-winning change-maker, Ekpeno has dedicated over a decade to driving impactful initiatives across diverse sectors, including healthcare, education, arts, agriculture, and sports.
With extensive experience in Nigeria’s humanitarian and community development sectors, Ekpeno has implemented transformative projects internationally, positively impacting countless lives. Notable among them is, The Adams Project Africa (TAPA) a project initiated to help build boy children to become well equipped men for the betterment of their communities. The project currently runs in 14 African countries and 21 Nigerian States. Others are Angels At Dawn (A Humanitarian project that cares for the less privilege in 3 African countries), Project August (A project dedicated to the empowerment of community women), and Healing Room (A Mental Health psychotherapy project initiated to help people who are experiencing different stages of mental imbalance in African countries). His community cancer awareness programs under Project Save All, (PROSA), Project Pearl of Hope (PPOH), and Project All for One (PAFO) in Nigeria have impacted the lives of over 130 cancer survivors and fighters, which led to the publication of his award winning book, Pearl of Hope (2017). His global influence continues to expand as he supports initiatives fostering sustainable growth across countries worldwide.
Ekpeno is the Founder and Executive Director of both The Andino Foundation for Community Development (TAFCOD) and Kick Out Cancer Foundation (KOCAF), a British Council-trained community development strategist through the Active Citizens Program (2014). He holds three advanced degrees: Master of Arts in International Studiesfrom the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC), Canada, Master of Arts in Development Communicationfrom Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria, as well as a Postgraduate Diploma in Talent Management from Music Business Africa, Lagos, Nigeria.
Ekpeno’s humane-centric leadership style and influence traverse sectors and has impacted many. He is the current President of United Nations Association in Canada (UNAC) Prince George branch, the Run Director (Logistics) for the Prince George Committee of Canadian Cancer Society’s CIBC Run for the Cure. He was the Chairperson of Northern British Columbia Graduate Students Society (NBCGSS) in 2023-2024. He exemplifies servant leadership, consistently prioritizing the well-being and success of others. Ekpeno is the author of the award winning leadership book, Odudu: the Bane of a Nation (2020). His work reflects a deep commitment to equity, inclusion, and sustainability, empowering communities and fostering transformational change. His award winning drama Room 7 (2019) which exposes societal decay on the portrayal of success has been the headline production at London Theatre Festival, Lagos Theatre Festival and Beeta Arts Festival, Abuja in recent years. Whether through advocacy, mentorship, or creative endeavors, Ekpeno continues to inspire and lead efforts to build a more just and inclusive world.
With extensive experience in Nigeria’s humanitarian and community development sectors, Ekpeno has implemented transformative projects internationally, positively impacting countless lives. Notable among them is, The Adams Project Africa (TAPA) a project initiated to help build boy children to become well equipped men for the betterment of their communities. The project currently runs in 14 African countries and 21 Nigerian States. Others are Angels At Dawn (A Humanitarian project that cares for the less privilege in 3 African countries), Project August (A project dedicated to the empowerment of community women), and Healing Room (A Mental Health psychotherapy project initiated to help people who are experiencing different stages of mental imbalance in African countries). His community cancer awareness programs under Project Save All, (PROSA), Project Pearl of Hope (PPOH), and Project All for One (PAFO) in Nigeria have impacted the lives of over 130 cancer survivors and fighters, which led to the publication of his award winning book, Pearl of Hope (2017). His global influence continues to expand as he supports initiatives fostering sustainable growth across countries worldwide.
Ekpeno is the Founder and Executive Director of both The Andino Foundation for Community Development (TAFCOD) and Kick Out Cancer Foundation (KOCAF), a British Council-trained community development strategist through the Active Citizens Program (2014). He holds three advanced degrees: Master of Arts in International Studiesfrom the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC), Canada, Master of Arts in Development Communicationfrom Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria, as well as a Postgraduate Diploma in Talent Management from Music Business Africa, Lagos, Nigeria.
Ekpeno’s humane-centric leadership style and influence traverse sectors and has impacted many. He is the current President of United Nations Association in Canada (UNAC) Prince George branch, the Run Director (Logistics) for the Prince George Committee of Canadian Cancer Society’s CIBC Run for the Cure. He was the Chairperson of Northern British Columbia Graduate Students Society (NBCGSS) in 2023-2024. He exemplifies servant leadership, consistently prioritizing the well-being and success of others. Ekpeno is the author of the award winning leadership book, Odudu: the Bane of a Nation (2020). His work reflects a deep commitment to equity, inclusion, and sustainability, empowering communities and fostering transformational change. His award winning drama Room 7 (2019) which exposes societal decay on the portrayal of success has been the headline production at London Theatre Festival, Lagos Theatre Festival and Beeta Arts Festival, Abuja in recent years. Whether through advocacy, mentorship, or creative endeavors, Ekpeno continues to inspire and lead efforts to build a more just and inclusive world.
Donya Powell
VICE PRESIDENT
Donya Powell
VICE PRESIDENT
Donya assists in promoting the awareness and the celebration of African and Caribbean heritage in the capacity of Vice President and Cultural and Social Affairs Liaison for the Afro-Caribbean Society of Northern British Columbia (AFCAS). Donya is a native Jamaican and has been involved with AFCAS since its conception in 2021.
For the past 20 years, Donya continues to be a dedicated Special Educator who uses her training and expertise to address the unique learning challenges of students with diverse disabilities. Donya is no stranger to nonprofit organizations and has been involved with various NPOs for over 30 years. Her strong sense of devotion to be part of an organization such as AFCAS came about due to personal and hurtful experiences after migrating to Canada in 2015.
These experiences made her conscious of the critical need to be involve with an organization that aims to offer opportunities to educate and integrate one’s heritage into the diverse multicultural fabric of Canada.
For the past 20 years, Donya continues to be a dedicated Special Educator who uses her training and expertise to address the unique learning challenges of students with diverse disabilities. Donya is no stranger to nonprofit organizations and has been involved with various NPOs for over 30 years. Her strong sense of devotion to be part of an organization such as AFCAS came about due to personal and hurtful experiences after migrating to Canada in 2015.
These experiences made her conscious of the critical need to be involve with an organization that aims to offer opportunities to educate and integrate one’s heritage into the diverse multicultural fabric of Canada.
Board of Directors
Alex Ovien
Chairperson
Alex Ovien
Chairperson
Alex Ovien is the President of the Board of Directors for the Afro-Caribbean Association of Northern British Columbia. A dedicated community advocate in Prince George, BC, Alex boasts a unique blend of skills in Management, Social Services, and Communications.
With a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and Communications, concurrently with a Social Work diploma, Alex possesses a deep understanding of social issues. He is currently pursuing an MBA from Carleton University, further enhancing his business acumen.
Alex's diverse background empowers him to effectively lead organizations, drive social change, and foster inclusive communities. His commitment to improving the lives of others is evident in his various roles and volunteer activities, making him a valuable asset to the community.
With a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and Communications, concurrently with a Social Work diploma, Alex possesses a deep understanding of social issues. He is currently pursuing an MBA from Carleton University, further enhancing his business acumen.
Alex's diverse background empowers him to effectively lead organizations, drive social change, and foster inclusive communities. His commitment to improving the lives of others is evident in his various roles and volunteer activities, making him a valuable asset to the community.
Rosemary Jamal
SECRETARY
Rosemary Jamal
SECRETARY
Rosemary Jamal is the Secretary of the Board at AFCAS and a Program Manager at Positive Living North. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in International Studies with a focus on development and environmental sustainability. Rosemary is passionate about fostering equitable and sustainable solutions in her professional and academic pursuits.
Bolade Banjo
Director of Finance
Bolade Banjo
Director of Finance
Bolade Banjo is a dedicated accounting professional with extensive experience in personal and business taxation, bookkeeping, and financial reporting. As the founder of Bolfred Consulting Services, she provides tailored financial solutions that help individuals and small businesses stay compliant and make informed financial decisions.
With a strong commitment to integrity, accuracy, and community service, Bolade serves as the society’s Financial Secretary, where she manages financial records, prepares reports, and ensures transparency in all financial operations. Her work reflects both her technical expertise and her passion for empowering others through financial literacy and accountability.
In addition to her professional practice, Bolade volunteers with the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP), offering free tax filing services to community members. Outside of work, she enjoys mentoring small business owners and promoting sound financial management within her community.
With a strong commitment to integrity, accuracy, and community service, Bolade serves as the society’s Financial Secretary, where she manages financial records, prepares reports, and ensures transparency in all financial operations. Her work reflects both her technical expertise and her passion for empowering others through financial literacy and accountability.
In addition to her professional practice, Bolade volunteers with the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP), offering free tax filing services to community members. Outside of work, she enjoys mentoring small business owners and promoting sound financial management within her community.
Dr. Ujunma Egbuawa
MEMBER
Dr. Ujunma Egbuawa
MEMBER
Dr. Ujunma Egbuawa is a graduate of Gender studies with First class honours at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC), Prince George, BC. She also has a Ph.D, Masters and BA in Philosophy, and she holds a Professional Diploma in Education all from Nigeria. In Canada, Uju acquired training and work experiences/certifications in mental health and Substance Use, including Aboriginal counselling practices which implies that she is versed in practices that cut across non-Indigenous and Indigenous spheres.
Currently, she works as a Support Services Manager with People living with, affected by or at risk of HIV/AIDS/HCV at Positive Living North (PLN) which is the only Indigenous-led AIDS Service Organization (ASO) in Northern, BC. She is also a community-based researcher and project coordinator for various federal and provincial projects. Such as a 3-year federal government-funded project with Women and Gender Equality (WAGE) Canada and with Provincial Health Service Authority (PHSA) a BC fully funded 3-year project. Also, an 18-month project funded by ViiV Healthcare on PLN strategies for improved healthcare for PLWHIV/HCV and strengthening community connections. This Viiv project included setting up DBST clinics and having focus group discussions with organizations that work primarily with Indigenous communities and vulnerable populations on best practices for service delivery across Northern BC. Dr. Uju is also a part-time instructor at the College of New Caledonia (CNC) where she teaches Philosophy. She has published academic articles and has attended conferences to share her knowledge in this regard.
Dr. Uju has also served in the Afro-Caribbean Society of Northern British Columbia (AFCAS) as the first female President of the association. She has been able to organize and establish advocacy programs for indigenous and marginalized women living in Prince George who deserve to have equal opportunities irrespective of their health status, race, ethnicity, and class and gender conformity. Back in Nigeria, she volunteered in women-based organizations as a psychosocial counsellor for more than a decade. Uju has always loved work that allows interacting with adult clients and helping vulnerable women struggling with abuse, intimate partner violence, substance use disorder or any other related difficulty peculiar to these adult populations. She is a member of the Board of Directors of AFCAS .
Dr Uju identifies as a cis woman, married with 3 kids.
Currently, she works as a Support Services Manager with People living with, affected by or at risk of HIV/AIDS/HCV at Positive Living North (PLN) which is the only Indigenous-led AIDS Service Organization (ASO) in Northern, BC. She is also a community-based researcher and project coordinator for various federal and provincial projects. Such as a 3-year federal government-funded project with Women and Gender Equality (WAGE) Canada and with Provincial Health Service Authority (PHSA) a BC fully funded 3-year project. Also, an 18-month project funded by ViiV Healthcare on PLN strategies for improved healthcare for PLWHIV/HCV and strengthening community connections. This Viiv project included setting up DBST clinics and having focus group discussions with organizations that work primarily with Indigenous communities and vulnerable populations on best practices for service delivery across Northern BC. Dr. Uju is also a part-time instructor at the College of New Caledonia (CNC) where she teaches Philosophy. She has published academic articles and has attended conferences to share her knowledge in this regard.
Dr. Uju has also served in the Afro-Caribbean Society of Northern British Columbia (AFCAS) as the first female President of the association. She has been able to organize and establish advocacy programs for indigenous and marginalized women living in Prince George who deserve to have equal opportunities irrespective of their health status, race, ethnicity, and class and gender conformity. Back in Nigeria, she volunteered in women-based organizations as a psychosocial counsellor for more than a decade. Uju has always loved work that allows interacting with adult clients and helping vulnerable women struggling with abuse, intimate partner violence, substance use disorder or any other related difficulty peculiar to these adult populations. She is a member of the Board of Directors of AFCAS .
Dr Uju identifies as a cis woman, married with 3 kids.
Dr. Emmanuel Chilanga
MEMBER
Dr. Emmanuel Chilanga
MEMBER
Emmanuel is an Assistant professor in the School of Social Work at The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) and a Director of Blackfaces Anti-racism project under the Afro- Caribbean Society of Northern British Columbia Society. Drawn from my passion and human rights-based training, I am committed to contribute to the welfare of all community members in Canada and abroad. Since 2011, I have been collaborating with local communities to exprole and intervene issues relating to public health, nutrition, and socio-political dynamics in Malawi. He also conducts research that exprole effective Social Work Field education models in Canada and Africa. As a Director of Blackfaces Anti-racism project, Emmanuel is taking a leading role in community and resource mobilization. He has been actively involved in program planning and implementation.
Confidence Ben
MEMBER
Confidence Ben
MEMBER
As a Board Member of AFCAS, Confidence brings a wealth of knowledge and a strong commitment to the organization’s values. Confidence is passionate about creating spaces where individuals feel valued, motivated, and empowered to reach their full potential. She is committed to supporting initiatives that enhance service delivery and create sustainable opportunities for growth and development within the community.
Confidence holds a Master’s of Science in Business Administration and a Bachelor’s in Human Resources Management. She has also completed several certifications that enhance her expertise in program management, community services, and leadership.
Dedicated to continuous learning and success, Confidence is proud to contribute to AFCAS's mission of supporting and empowering individuals and communities.