TEDxUmudike

Speakers

Speakers may not be confirmed. Check the event website for the latest lineup.

• Ifeanyi Ochije

  Business Development Strategist, Licensee SMFEST Awka

  Ifeanyi is a visionary community leader, business strategist, and strong advocate for sustainability & youth empowerment. He is the Licensee of SMFest Awka, one of the most transformative youth digital and innovation festivals in South East Nigeria, and the Chairman of Owerri Business Week, a platform bridging entrepreneurs, business leaders, and policymakers. He has also created Umpaya, an e-waste recycling & climate action project, and has led milestone projects across industries, living by the philosophy of service, innovation, and collective growth.

• Kelechukwu Godfrey (Kay)

  Financial Educator/Analyst, Convener The BoardRoom

  Godfrey Kelechukwu Godfrey (KAY) is a renowned financial educator, strategist, the convener of the Boardroom and host of Money Matters with KAY. With over a decade of experience, he has empowered thousands of young Nigerians to take charge of their finances and build sustainable futures. He is recognized as one of Abia’s top under-35 leaders. He is passionate about transforming lives — one naira, one man, one business at a time.

• Kenneth Nwokoro

  Co-Founder AWS GENAI Women Forum, Development Coach, Business and Data Analyst

  Mr. Kenneth Nwokoro is a seasoned development economist and certified futurist with over 25 years of experience in senior and executive management. His work spans across the UN, Shell, state governments, and global institutions where he is shaping development planning, sustainability, and entrepreneurship. He is the founder of Mind the Gap, a tech skills initiative, and Spital Labs, where he builds tech solutions for startups. Kenneth also created Tecky, a free app helping beginners find their footing in tech. Through his work, he has mentored hundreds of startups and empowered thousands of young people, including persons with disabilities, to embrace innovation and create impact.

• Mercy Eneh Dikeh

  Social Entrepreneur At Tefem Network, Product Design Mentor at Crealllo

  She’s not just a Product Designer — she’s a movement. With over 60 brands shaped by her creativity and an NGO (Tefem Network) on a mission to empower 1 billion African women in tech and media, Mercy is rewriting the rules of design, leadership, and social impact. From mentoring young designers to launching the TEFEM Africa Fellowship (training 20,000 women in tech by 2030), she proves that one woman’s vision can spark a continental revolution. This October at TEDxUmudike, Eneh Mercy won’t just share ideas — she will ignite a vision of what Africa can become when design, technology, and people unite. Prepare to witness the story of a woman who turns barriers into pathways and possibilities into realities.

• Prof. Eugene Nwachukwu

  Professor of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Michal Okpara University of Agriculture

  Professor Nwachukwu is a distinguished geneticist, animal breeder, and academic leader whose work has shaped agriculture in Nigeria. From developing improved poultry breeds and hybrid goats to pioneering cattle suited for diverse climates, his innovations have transformed farming and food security. Currently serving as Dean of the College of Animal Science and Animal Production, and over 70 publications to his name, Professor Nwachukwu combines decades of research, consulting, and hands-on farming with a passion for community development and mentorship.

• Prof. Friday Joel Ogbonna

  Hon. Commissioner of Petroleum and Mineral Resources Abia State

  A Professor of Petroleum Engineering with a career spanning academia, industry, and governance, Prof Joel has: 18+ years at Halliburton (Nigeria & USA). Published 180+ papers and supervised 40+ PhD graduates. Advanced research in oilfield chemicals, environmental management & sustainable energy. Currently serving as Commissioner for Petroleum & Mineral Resources, Abia State, he is also a mentor, global speaker, and passionate advocate for youth empowerment and good governance.

• Raymond Chima Ukwa

  Special Assistant to the Abia State Governor on Sports

  Chima Raymond Ukwa — a visionary strategist, governance reform advocate, and gender equity champion with over a decade of impact. He has worked with UNICEF, UNFPA, and the Ford Foundation on initiatives tackling gender-based violence, ending FGM, and advancing youth governance. As Director of the Initiative for Adaptive Thinking and Strategic Leadership (IATSL), he equips emerging leaders with tools for policy and civic engagement. From co-founding the Youth End FGM Network and driving the VAPP Act in Abia State, to speaking on global stages like the St. Petersburg Economic Forum and World Youth Festival in Russia — Chima’s work continues to inspire change across borders.