Our Management Team
Mr. Kennedy Chesoli,
Executive Director
Mr. Kennedy Chesoli,
Executive Director
Kennedy is a seasoned manager known for his multifaceted expertise, leadership skills,
unwavering dedication, and achievements in designing and implementing national and
regional socioeconomic initiatives. With a proven track record in team management,
partnership building, and grant oversight, Kennedy excelled as the former Director of
Programs at CHOICE Regional Health Network in Olympia, WA, where he led multi-
million-dollar healthcare projects. Prior roles include Donor Relations Manager at the
African Population and Health Research Center, Economic Affairs Officer at the United
Nations, and Economic Advisor at the Permanent Mission of Kenya to the UN. Before
accepting the role as ED, Kennedy was Head of Strategy and Corporate Projects for
United Bank for Africa, America in New York. He holds advanced degrees in
Economics, Geography and Planning, a bachelor’s in economics, and a Certificate in
Product Development from Cornell University.
Ms. Rosemary Musumba,
Deputy Executive Director
Ms. Rosemary Musumba,
Deputy Executive Director
Rosemary is a Communications Advisor with the United Nations in New York, boasting
over 25 years of experience in external and media relations, development, and program
management. She excels in public relations, resource mobilization, and partnerships.
Fluent in English, Swahili, and French, Rosemary has navigated diverse cultural and
social landscapes across the US, Asia, Europe, and Africa. She has held senior
positions within the UN, particularly in humanitarian contexts, working with IDPs,
refugees, and migrants in conflict zones like Liberia and Iraq. A staunch advocate for
human rights, she focuses on women and children, upholding Humanitarian Law,
Sphere standards, and the principle of "Do no harm." Rosemary began her career as a
broadcaster before transitioning into development work.
Ms. Mercy Ayilo,
Director of Programs (Volunteer)
Ms. Mercy Ayilo,
Director of Programs (Volunteer)
Mercy is the dedicated Africana Studies Librarian at the University of Pennsylvania, where she plays a crucial role in supporting the research endeavors of faculty and students with interests in Africa and Africans in diaspora studies. Collaborating closely with colleagues across Penn libraries and the Centre for African Studies, Mercy provides specialized reference, instruction, and academic liaison services. Her commitment to enriching the academic experience extends to her previous roles, such as at the African Economic Research Consortium (AERC), where she oversaw collection development and instruction services as a Librarian. Prior to her time at AERC, Mercy served as a Senior Assistant Librarian at the Pan African Christian University. Armed with a master's degree in library and information science from Kenya Methodist University, Mercy brings a wealth of experience in library management and research. Beyond her professional endeavors, Mercy finds fulfillment in community work and supporting the less privileged, reflecting her compassionate spirit and dedication to making a positive impact beyond the library walls.
Ms. Oke Omene (Director of Operations)
Management Staff
Ms. Oke Omene (Director of Operations)
Management Staff
Oke is a seasoned HR professional currently serving as an HR Business Partner at Tower Health in Phoenixville, PA, where she provides strategic support to senior leadership, particularly in collective bargaining agreements and union negotiations. Notably, her contributions include enhancing investigation documentation procedures to mitigate HR risks and uphold performance management standards. Oke holds an MBA in Human Resources Management from the University of Aberdeen, complemented by legal qualifications from the Nigerian Law School and the College of Law in London. She specialized in maritime law at University College London, and the University of Hull. With expertise in contracting, management, recruitment, and employment law, Oke is recognized as an asset to operations, distinguished by strong communication skills and a commitment to professional excellence.