EVENT ANCHORS
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Melody Gratic
Founder & CEO, XCELMIL LLC
Melody Gratic is a leadership consultant, educator, and executive coach with 30+ years of experience in organizational development, program management, and change leadership. A service-disabled veteran and CEO/Founder of XCELMIL, Melody helps teams “Go Big” by building psychological safety, empathy, and collaboration that drive real results. She’s certified in OKRs, DEI, and is a John Maxwell Behavioral Analysis (DISC) and MBTI® practitioner. Melody has coached senior leaders across government and industry, facilitating high-impact workshops that turn strategy into measurable performance. She serves as Event Anchor for MLC 2025.
ABUJA, NIGERIA
Enifome Ogbimi
Founder & CEO, Live Again Foundation & Fogg Consulting Solutions LTD.
Enifome Ogbimi is a reformer, transformational coach, global speaker, and master event compere known for using her faith-driven words to inspire people, events, and organizations. She is the MD/CEO of Fogg Consulting Solutions Ltd and Founder of the Live Again Foundation, which helps people heal, reinvent themselves, and live purposefully. Her initiatives include the Live Again Shelter and Live Again Outreach. Recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Young Women in Africa and the Wise Woman Awards 2025 Woman of Influence, she is celebrated for her vibrant presence, leadership, and ability to leave audiences energized and transformed.
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Dr. Cheryl Wood
International Motivational Speaker, Best-Selling Author, & Master Speaker Development Coach for Women
Dr. Cheryl Wood is an international motivational speaker, best-selling author, and master speaker development coach who empowers women to own their voice and share their story with confidence. She has trained countless corporate and entrepreneurial women to communicate with clarity, conviction, and impact—whether in the boardroom or on stage. From humble beginnings to building a global speaking brand, Cheryl’s journey has taken her to South Africa, India, France, the United Kingdom, and the Bahamas. She has been featured on ABC, Radio One, Forbes Magazine, Huffington Post, ESSENCE, Black Enterprise, Good Morning Washington, Fox 45 News, Fox 5 News, and numerous other media outlets.
Topic:
Authentic Leadership Journeys: Big Collaboration, Big Change, Big Career, Big Legacy, Big Money
ABUJA, NIGERIA
Sidney Sampson
Founder and Global Managing Partner of Sydani Group
Sidney Sampson is the Founder and Global Managing Partner of Sydani Group, a leading international consulting firm driving impact across Africa and Asia. Under his leadership, Sydani has grown from a one-person startup to a global team of 130+ professionals partnering with organizations like WHO, UNICEF, USAID, and the World Bank. A Harvard Business School Executive alumnus, Sidney is recognized for shaping national policies, mobilizing over $1 billion in development funding, and pioneering innovations such as Nigeria’s 10-year Immunization Strategy.
Topic:
Authentic Leadership Journeys: Big Collaboration, Big Change, Big Career, Big Legacy, Big Money
ABUJA, NIGERIA
John Riordan
Leadership & Organization Development Consultant, Coach, Facilitator
For over 30 years, John Riordan has been empowering individuals and organizations to reach their full potential. From co-founding the Cornerstone Leadership Academy in Uganda to leading transformative programs for the U.S. Army, NASA, and other federal agencies, John brings deep experience in leadership, strategy, and team development. Known for his engaging style, adaptability, and results-driven approach, he continues to help leaders and teams grow with purpose and impact.
Topic:
Power of Perceptions
SPEAKERS
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Dr. LaTonya Small
Founder and Empowerment Strategist, LT Empowerment Inc.
Dr. LaTonya L. Small is the Founder and Empowerment Strategist of LT Empowerment, Inc., helping individuals gain clarity, unlock potential, and achieve personal and professional goals. With over 35 years of experience in the Federal Government, nonprofit organizations, and individual coaching, she leads workshops, retreats, courses, and keynote engagements focused on leadership and personal growth. She also works with schools and social organizations to drive transformational impact. Currently, she serves at the Department of Veterans Affairs, managing Federal advisory committees, and has been featured on conferences and media platforms. An active Delta Sigma Theta Sorority member, she is a motivational speaker, award recipient, and advocate for living unapologetically authentic.
Session Topic:
Leading an Organization: No Risk, No Reward
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Kevin Wayne Johnson
Founder & Chief Executive Officer,
The Johnson Leadership Group, LLC
Kevin Wayne Johnson is the Founder & CEO of The Johnson Leadership Group, LLC, and a certified coach, trainer, mentor, and speaker with the Maxwell Certified Leadership Team. He designs and delivers tailored workshops, seminars, keynotes, and coaching to help individuals and organizations grow, improve communication, and develop leadership skills. A native of Richmond, Virginia, he holds a B.S. in Business Administration and Management from Virginia Commonwealth University and completed graduate coursework at Marymount University and the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. He also earned a Master’s Certification in Government Contracting from George Washington University.
Session Topic:
Leading People: Becoming a Person of Influence - Making a Positive Impact in the Lives of Others
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Dr. Linda Cureton
Founder and CEO, Muse Technologies, Inc.
Dr. Linda Cureton is the Founder & CEO of Muse Technologies, Inc., specializing in program management, organizational transformation, and leadership development. With over 40 years of public service, she served as NASA’s Chief Information Officer and held executive IT roles at the Department of Energy and ATF. A thought leader and published author, she has driven innovation in IT strategy, cloud computing, and mobility. Dr. Cureton holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership and degrees in Mathematics, and her leadership has earned numerous awards recognizing her influence and impact in technology and government.
Session Topic:
Leading People: Leading with Emotional Intelligence & Human Insight in the Age of AI
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Dr. Sarah Langley
Founder & CEO, LeadHER International, LLC
Dr. Sarah Renee Langley is a TedX Speaker, Award Winning Global Leadership Strategist, and creator of the Limitless Leadership™ Framework. With nearly 30 years of experience, she helps executives lead through change, chaos, and crises with confidence, courage, clarity and resilience. A Licensed Psychotherapist and Business Coach, she empowers high-performing leaders, especially women, to overcome limits, own their voice, and create lasting impact.
Session Topic:
Leading Yourself: Be Limitless. Lead Without Limits
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Hope Y. Dudley
Founder of Thrive for Excellence
Hope Y. Dudley is the Founder of Thrive for Excellence and a Career Visibility Coach, helping professionals build executive presence and career visibility on LinkedIn. She also serves as Financial Systems Service Center Supervisor at the Department of Justice, leading Lean Six Sigma projects to improve efficiency and compliance. As Vice Program Director for the African American Federal Executive Association, she curates empowering programs for professionals nationwide. Hope holds an MBA and degrees in Accounting, is an active Zeta Phi Beta member, and is a devoted wife and mother.
Session Topic:
Leading Yourself: Lead Loudly - Strengthen Your Presence & Elevate Your Brand on LinkedIn
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Nnenna Egwim
Founder & CEO of Ninawanglam & IB Connect
Nnenna Egwim is the Founder & CEO of Ninawanglam, a beauty and self-care brand empowering women to embrace confidence and authenticity. With over 20 years of leadership in government, technology, and business innovation, she has served in key roles at the White House, FDA, and DHS, driving IT modernization, strengthening cybersecurity, and advancing organizational change. She is also the founder of IB Connect, serves on executive boards, and speaks on leadership, resilience, and executive presence. Nnenna holds degrees in IT and Health IT and is a proud mom of three.
Session Topic:
Leading an Organization: Behind the Firewall - Lessons from a Woman Leading Multi-Million-Dollar Federal IT Portfolios
ABUJA, NIGERIA
Chioma Nebo
Creator of the CEO of Me
Chioma Nebo is a business process improvement strategist and creator of the CEO of Me™ framework, a practical approach to self-leadership and intentional living. Drawing on over two decades of experience in optimizing business systems and guiding transformation initiatives, Chioma empowers individuals to lead their lives with clarity and purpose, building systems for success.
Session Topic:
Leading Yourself: Lead with Intention
ABUJA, NIGERIA
Olusina Olusegun Olulana
Freelance Consultant
Olusina Olusegun Olulana, a Chevening Scholar, is a public health and leadership consultant with 40+ years of experience in nursing, health systems strengthening, and community development. He has completed advanced leadership and management training globally and led major initiatives with organizations including USAID, World Bank, Global Fund, and GIZ. Beyond his professional work, he is a mentor, church leader, and advocate for ethical, impactful leadership, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to service and resilience.
Session Topic:
Leading an Organization: Beyond the Checklist - Establishing Systems within an Organization
ABUJA, NIGERIA
Debra Alexander
Organizational Development Consultant,
Trainer, Leadership Coach And HR Advisor
Debra Alexander is an organizational development consultant, leadership coach, and HR advisor with extensive experience promoting high-performing organizations and positive workplace cultures. She has trained and facilitated programs for over 100,000 participants across 100+ organizations globally, spanning private, non-profit, federal, and higher education sectors. Debra holds advanced degrees from Teachers College, Columbia University, the University of St. Thomas, and American University, and has served on Georgetown University’s faculty.
Session Topic:
Leading an Organization: How to Lead, Manage and Sustain Change - A Practical Approach
ABUJA, NIGERIA
Jeffrey Ukpokodu
Education Consultant & Principal Planning Officer, NCCE
Jeffrey Iroeneku Ukpokodu is an education administrator, researcher, and counselor with 10+ years of experience in Nigeria’s higher education sector. He serves at the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), contributing to policy planning and teacher education. A strong advocate for girl-child education and women’s empowerment, he holds multiple M.Ed. degrees, is pursuing a Ph.D. in Guidance and Counseling, and is a certified member of TRCN and the Nigerian Institute of Management.
Session Topic:
Leading People: The Value of Women in Education and its Impact in a Developing World
ABUJA, NIGERIA
Nicole Kellum
Talent Acquisition Consultant, Career Coach, & Workforce Strategist
Nicole Kellum is a Talent Acquisition Consultant, Career Coach, and workforce strategist with 20+ years of experience bridging people, purpose, and performance across government and private sectors. As a Client Services Manager and Talent Consultant, she designs workforce solutions that enhance talent pipelines, strengthen employer brands, and drive long-term success. Founder of WhatNowNik, Nicole helps professionals navigate career transitions, unlock potential, and turn connections into opportunities. A passionate mentor, she teaches individuals to leverage social networking, self-awareness, and strategic thinking to achieve growth and fulfillment.
Session Topic:
Leading Yourself: Scaling Your Capabilities through the Power of Networks
ABUJA, NIGERIA
Ms. Christie Eleojo Adejoh
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Marcee Mega Resources Limited
Ms. Christie Eleojo Adejoh, FNIM – HR expert, management consultant, and dynamic public speaker. MD & CEO of Marcee Mega Communication Resources Ltd, Christie is known as Madam Etiquette for her expertise in social skills and leadership training. A Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered) and active Council Member, she champions professional management in Nigeria and advocates for women’s development through BPW. Beyond her professional work, she’s a celebrated golfer, former Lady Captain at IBB Golf & Country Club, Abuja, and a mentor inspiring the next generation of sportswomen.
Session Topic:
Leading People: The Power of Introductions - How to Expand Your Influence with People
PANELISTS
Panel Discussion: Challenging Existing Norms and Making Big Shifts
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Ebony McMorris
PANEL MODERATOR
White House Correspondent for AURN (American Urban Radio Network
Ebony McMorris is an award-winning journalist with over 20 years in television and radio. As the White House News Correspondent for the American Urban Radio Networks (AURN), she champions issues impacting the Black community through fearless reporting and advocacy. She hosts On The Record and Business For The Culture, promoting political awareness and economic empowerment, and appears weekly on WHUR’s White House Wednesday. A Washington, D.C. native, McMorris is committed to mentoring youth and advancing the legacy of the Black press in fighting oppression and driving change
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Vennard Wright
President & CEO of PerVista, Chief Information Officer, Prince George’s County Government
Vennard Wright, a visionary technology executive, entrepreneur, and community leader, brings nearly 30 years of innovation across public and private sectors. He is the President & CEO of PerVista, an AI-powered public-safety technology firm, and serves as Chief Information Officer for Prince George’s County Government, leading digital transformation and cybersecurity initiatives. A former CIO for Iron Bow Technologies and WSSC Water, and technology director for Hillary Clinton’s campaigns, Vennard has a proven record of driving excellence, inclusion, and innovation. Beyond tech, he mentors young athletes as a certified USATF coach, embodying leadership through service and impact.
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Antoine M. Thompson
CEO of Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition, President Black Housing Policy Network, Former NYS Senator
Antoine M. Thompson is a nationally recognized leader in environmental justice, green business, housing, and diversity. He serves as Executive Director of the Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition (GWRCC). A former New York State Senator and Buffalo Common Council Member, he authored landmark legislation on fair housing, MWBE inclusion, and green jobs. Antoine has led national efforts to advance Black homeownership as former Executive Director of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) and was named among the Swanepoel Power 200 most influential leaders in real estate.
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Candice Scarborough
Senior Technical Director Parsons, Host of Glitch Grind Glow Podcast, Tech Executive & Mentor
Candice Scarborough, a senior technology executive, speaker, and mentor, brings over 20 years of experience leading innovation across cybersecurity, software engineering, and defense systems. As Sr. Technical Director at Parsons Corporation, she drives cutting-edge cyber solutions that safeguard national security. Host of the Glitch Grind Glow podcast, Candice amplifies the voices of diverse tech innovators. A passionate advocate for inclusion and mentorship, she’s dedicated to empowering underrepresented communities and shaping a future where equity and innovation thrive together.
ABUJA, NIGERIA
Sekinat Amoo
PANEL MODERATOR
Global Health Consultant, Strategist & Leadership Advocate
Sekinat Amoo is a global health consultant, strategist, and leadership advocate with extensive experience driving transformative projects across Africa. She specialises in maternal, newborn, and child health, health policy, and strategic program implementation. With a background in Pharmacology and Physiology, and a Master’s in Public Health, both from the UK, she has supported governments, development partners, and NGOs in designing and delivering impactful health interventions. Sekinat is passionate about improving healthcare access for women and children and advancing policies that drive sustainable health outcomes.
ABUJA, NIGERIA
Otse Ogorry
Country Director of the Palladium-led Data for Implementation (Data.FI) Project
Otse Ogorry is a seasoned public health leader with over 20 years of experience advancing health systems across Africa. He has led strategic initiatives in HIV/AIDS, TB, COVID-19, and Global Health Security, shaping national policies and optimizing donor investments exceeding $1.65 billion. As a senior advisor with PEPFAR and USAID/Nigeria, Otse drove data and systems innovations that transformed treatment access and program efficiency. He currently leads Nigeria’s engagement in the global Data.FI project, harnessing data and technology to strengthen health outcomes. His work spans Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, and Senegal.
ABUJA, NIGERIA
Chijioke Kaduru
Managing Director Corona Management Systems (CMS)
Chijioke Kaduru is a public health leader and innovator driving transformational change across sub-Saharan Africa. As founder of Corona Management Systems, he leads a consulting firm operating across Africa and beyond. A physician with advanced public health and epidemiology training, Chijioke has strengthened health systems, mobilized resources for pandemic preparedness, malaria control, immunization programs, and maternal mortality reduction, and led groundbreaking research with global partners. Passionate about data ownership, he develops health-focused data infrastructure empowering African governments to manage and utilize their data for effective policymaking. His work exemplifies bold, innovative leadership with sustainable, continent-wide impact.
ABUJA, NIGERIA
Blessing Adeogo Ayankanmi
National Executive President of Law Students’ Association of Nigeria
Blessing Adeogo Ayankanmi, a dynamic and passionate individual who hails from Ogbomosho North Local Government in Oyo State. Known for her academic excellence and leadership, she served twice as President of her university’s LAWSA chapter and made history as the first female elected National President of LAWSAN, representing over 150,000 law students across Nigeria. Also crowned Miss LAWSAN Nigeria, Blessing is a multifaceted individual with interests in singing, dancing, spoken word, content creation, counseling, and affiliate marketing. A committed volunteer and social advocate, she uses her platform to empower others and is set to make a lasting impact in the legal field and beyond.
ABUJA, NIGERIA
Dr. Morenike Alade-Oni
Manager & Gender Health Lead at Sydani Group
Dr. Morenike Alade-Oni is a medical doctor, public health expert, and certified Project Management Professional serving as Manager and Gender Health Lead at Sydani Group. With over a decade of experience in immunisation, non-communicable and neglected tropical diseases, and gender-responsive health systems, she has led initiatives that transform access and equity in health—mobilizing communities, faith leaders, and policymakers to reduce vaccine hesitancy, deliver over 500,000 child immunisations in Southern Nigeria, and achieve over 90% national coverage for the HPV vaccine. Renowned for integrating gender, equity, and evidence-based advocacy into national policies, she is recognized as a leading voice in innovative health leadership and systemic change.
ABUJA, NIGERIA
Jacqueline N. Aneke-Ogunseye
Learning and Development Manager at a leading Tier One bank
Jacqueline N. Aneke-Ogunseye is an experienced business and HR professional with 20+ years across financial services, hospitality, and technology. She is currently Learning and Development Manager at a Tier One bank, leading training programs, executive development, and vendor negotiations. She holds an MBA (University of Maryland) and a BA in Psychology (Valparaiso University), with certifications in Leadership Principles and Negotiation Mastery from Harvard Business School. Jacqueline is a speaker and advocate for mental health, well-being, continuous development, and sustainable wealth building, empowering individuals and organizations to thrive holistically and build resilience.
FIRESIDE CHAT
WASHINGTON, D.C.
John Riordan
Leadership & Organization Development Consultant
For over 30 years, John Riordan has been empowering individuals and organizations to reach their full potential. From co-founding the Cornerstone Leadership Academy in Uganda to leading transformative programs for the U.S. Army, NASA, and other federal agencies, John brings deep experience in leadership, strategy, and team development. Known for his engaging style, adaptability, and results-driven approach, he continues to help leaders and teams grow with purpose and impact.
ABUJA, NIGERIA
Dr. Mojisola Odeku
Public Health Specialist & Development Strategist
Dr. Mojisola Odeku is an accomplished public health physician and development strategist with over 30 years of leadership in health systems strengthening, reproductive, maternal, newborn, and child health (RMNCAH), and family planning program scale-up. She has played key roles in global and African health initiatives through Partners in Population and Development (PPD) and the International Council on Management of Population Programs (ICOMP). A mentor to emerging leaders, she is a member of the Chartered Institute of Directors (CIoD), a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants (IMC) Nigeria, and serves on several boards of trustees.
Topic:
Leading People: Building an Army for Change
FEATURED SPEAKER
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Autumn Joi Live
Award-Winning Multimedia Personality
Autumn Joi Live is a dynamic and versatile multimedia personality with over 20 years of experience across radio, television, and digital platforms. She has appeared as a correspondent for TMZ, MSNBC, and Fox 5 DC, and hosts the award-winning Autumn Joi Live Show on CTV. Recognized as the “Pride of Prince George’s County,” she continues to elevate her brand through purpose-driven media and community impact. As founder of the Autumn Joi Live Foundation, she supports foster youth, single mothers, and underserved women.
Topic: Power of the Pivot
CLOSEOUT SPEAKERS
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Pastor Ylawnda Peebles
Pastor of City of Praise Family Ministries, First Lady of Global United Fellowship, and President of Intrepid Hope University
Dr. Ylawnda Peebles is the Co-Pastor of City of Praise Family Ministries in Landover, MD, where she serves alongside her husband, Senior Pastor Joel R. Peebles, Sr. A dynamic leader, author, and advocate, she’s passionate about faith, family, and empowering the next generation. An alumna of Bowie State University (Magna Cum Laude), Dr. Peebles holds multiple degrees in Divinity and Humane Letters. She’s the founder of the Heart to Heart Literacy Program, author of “God Loves Me Just the Way I Am” and “Intrepid Hope,” and host of the YP Rise Up Gratitude Journey. Through her Transformation Squad, Kingdom Queen Organization, and community service, she inspires thousands to live with purpose, faith, and gratitude
Topic: Leading Yourself
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Bishop Joel Peebles
Presiding Bishop of Global United Fellowship & Senior Pastor of City of Praise Family Ministries
Bishop Joel R. Peebles is the Presiding Bishop of Global United Fellowship and Senior Pastor of City of Praise Family Ministries in Landover, Maryland. The son of the late Bishop James and Apostle Betty Peebles, he continues their legacy of faith and excellence, leading one of the nation’s most vibrant ministries. A passionate preacher, teacher, and visionary, Bishop Peebles is known for his dynamic leadership, compassion, and commitment to empowering believers worldwide. He holds degrees in Journalism, Counseling, and Divinity, and was awarded a Doctorate in Humane Letters. Alongside his wife, Co-Pastor Ylawnda Peebles, he co-hosts Marry Me Again, inspiring families and couples to build strong, faith-centered relationships. Together, they are proud parents of four children and continue to serve with purpose, grace, and unwavering faith.
Topic: Leading People
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Judith Danso
Executive Director, Revenue Authority of Prince George’s County
Judith S. Danso is the Executive Director of the Revenue Authority of Prince George’s County, leading strategic initiatives that enhance revenue generation, foster economic growth, and strengthen fiscal sustainability. A seasoned public finance and government operations leader with a legal background, Judith is known for her collaborative approach and commitment to equitable development. She works to build transparent, inclusive, and impact-driven systems that empower communities and shape a stronger future for Prince George’s County.
Topic: Leading an Organization