Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli has been appointed as the President and CEO of The ONE Campaign, following a global search. She brings over 25 years of international development experience and is well-versed in agriculture, nutrition, social innovation, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and youth development in Africa. Nwuneli, a Nigerian/American citizen, will assume her role on April 2, 2024, succeeding Gayle Smith as CEO.
Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli – A promising new era of African leadership.
The organization, celebrating its 20th year, is undergoing strategic shifts to better address economic crises, climate, and conflict in Africa. Nwuneli’s focus will be on connecting African countries to financing, developing supportive policies, and mobilizing activists.
Tom Freston, ONE’s Board Chair, expressed excitement about Nwuneli’s vision and expertise. Bono, ONE’s co-founder, shared similar enthusiasm, emphasizing the need for African leadership. Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli highlighted her commitment to forging new partnerships, driving sustainable growth, and ensuring transparency in resource deployment.
In a statement by Nwuneli, she said…
“I am committed to working with ONE’s dynamic team to lead the organization at this critical time in Africa’s history. This will require that we forge new local and global partnerships, galvanize catalytical and innovative financing to ensure healthy livelihoods for the most vulnerable, drive sustainable and equitable growth in Africa, and ensure transparency and accountability in the deployment of resources at every level. ONE’s cofounders, staff, and board have worked tirelessly over the past 20 years, and its mission has never been more important. I am honored to lead the organization in this next chapter of growth and impact.”
About Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli
Ndidi Nwuneli is the founder of LEAP Africa, a non-profit committed to developing dynamic, innovative, and principled African leaders and African Food Changemakers. LEAP Africa provides support for African entrepreneurs to start and scale resilient and sustainable agribusinesses.
With extensive experience in international development, Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli is known for her work in social innovation, entrepreneurship, and impactful solutions in Africa. She holds an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School and has served on several prominent boards. Additionally, she is a recognized TED speaker and author on entrepreneurship and social innovation.