10 Years Strong: Africa Matters Welcomes Incoming Global Board of Directors

Africa Matters
May 7
3 min read

This year marks a major milestone for the Africa Matters Initiative (AMI) — 10 years of empowering African youth and reshaping the African narrative through leadership, social entrepreneurship, and advocacy. From grassroots programs to regional partnerships across 23 African countries, AMI has grown into a bold, youth-led movement that places young Africans at the center of change.

As we look ahead to the next decade, we are thrilled to announce our incoming global board of directors — a dynamic group of leaders whose values, expertise, and vision align with our mission. They join us at a pivotal moment as we deepen our impact and prepare for long-term sustainability, innovation, and security in our operations.

Meet Our New Board Members

Oyetola Oduyemi (Nigeria)

Oyetola is a Non-Executive Director at TengvoX Consulting and serves as the Senior Director of Investor Relations and Sustainability at the END Fund. She brings a wealth of experience in public policy, advocacy, and partnership-building across Africa’s development and health sectors. Her work bridges private, philanthropic, and public domains, driving sustainable solutions through strategic collaboration.

Natasha Budhram (South Africa)

With over two decades of experience in the non-profit sector — 15 years of which have been dedicated to fundraising — Natasha is a powerhouse when it comes to unlocking resources for youth and community development. Her work includes securing grants for higher education access, establishing innovation labs, and raising funds to support entrepreneurship and smallholder farmers. Natasha holds a Postgraduate Degree in Leadership from Stellenbosch Business School.

Gemma Thompson (South Africa)

Gemma is a purpose-driven leader at the intersection of education, community, and impact. As Head of Development at the Good Work Foundation, she raises over R35 million annually to support rural education and digital inclusion. Named a 2024 Archbishop Tutu Leadership Fellow, Gemma is known for her storytelling, strategic partnerships, and commitment to restoring hope and reimagining opportunity for underserved communities.

Tina Mgidlana (South Africa)

Tina is a Chartered Accountant (SA) with over eight years of experience in finance and governance. She is the Divisional Finance Manager at Tsebo Cleaning and Hygiene Services and serves as an executive member of Young Leaders Connect — an initiative by the IWFSA founded by Zanele Mbeki to empower young women professionals. Tina has contributed to several board committees focused on ethics, automation, and digital transformation, and was recently appointed to the sub-committee for Seat at the Table.

Continuing Leadership

These new members will work alongside our dedicated continuing board members: Aluwani Ramarumo, Danai Nyagani, Olubunmi “Bunmi” Otegbade, Dr. Rekgotsofetse Chikane, and Reanne Olivier, Co-Founder & CEO of AMI.

A Message from Our CEO

“With 10 years under our belt, I’m incredibly excited to welcome our incoming directors. This is a pivotal moment as we turn our focus to what the next decade of Africa Matters will look like — with a clear emphasis on sustainability, security, and long-term impact. I am confident that our new board members will bring the vision, expertise, and passion needed to take AMI to the next level.”— Reanne Olivier, Co-Founder & CEO, Africa Matters Initiative

Looking Ahead

The appointment of these board members represents not only a celebration of the past decade but a bold step into the future. With their leadership, AMI is poised to expand its reach, strengthen its systems, and continue unlocking the potential of Africa’s youth.

Stay connected as we roll out exciting new programs, launch our 10-year Anniversary celebrations, and spotlight the voices and projects of our inspiring alumni across the continent.