ACTPod

What does it truly mean to redefine masculinity in today’s Africa?In this insightful episode, we explore the evolving narrative of the African boy-child challenging stereotypes, reshaping perspectives, and building a healthier, more inclusive future for boys and men.Our guest, Ayodele Solomon, Founder/Lead Execution Officer of Boys' Quarters Africa, unpack the cultural shifts, opportunities, and challenges in transforming masculinity across communities.

Startups don’t die from lack of funds, they die from chaos.Join the conversation as our guest, Rosemond Phil-Othihiwa, Corporate Commercial Attorney, shares insights on the real pitfalls startups face. From co-founder conflicts to the absence of structure, Rosemond explores why building with systems and accountability is the real game changer.

The media can do more than inform — it can ignite change.In this episode, we uncover how nonprofits and social enterprises can build meaningful media partnerships to amplify their work, drive advocacy, and engage the public more deeply.Our guest, Morayo Afolabi-Brown, MD, TVC Entertainment, shares practical insights on crafting powerful stories, navigating media challenges, and using the media for lasting social good.If you are in the business of impact like we are, this episode is for you.

What happens when you bring education to the children the system could not cater to? In this powerful episode, we spotlight the inspiring work of Destiny Trust Foundation - changing the narrative for underserved kids from the heart of slum communities to classrooms, skills centre, and hope-filled futures. In this episode, Founder, Abimbola Ojenike shares the inspiring journey of Destiny Trust Foundation and how they are equipping vulnerable children with not just academic education, but vocational and digital skills that unlock lifelong opportunities.We also dive into the highs and hurdles of running a nonprofit and what it truly takes to create sustainable change.

With US aid to Africa on the decline, the pressure is on for the continent to take charge of its development agenda. In this episode, Mosun Layode, Executive Director , African Philanthropy Forum explores what these funding cuts really mean, and why it's time for African social sector leaders to rethink how we finance impact.From shifting donor landscapes to innovative, homegrown solutions, we unpack practical ways organizations can adapt, mobilize new resources, and build more resilient funding models. Tune in now and join the conversation. Available on all podcast platforms.

Education extends far beyond the classroom walls, and the level of exposure a person receives greatly influences their ability to dream big.However, the current state of our educational system leaves many at a disadvantage. To bridge this gap, Junior Achievement Nigeria launched its flagship program for high school students. In this episode, Mr. Ugonna Achebe, Executive Director of Junior Achievement Nigeria, shares insights into this initiative and impact of our collaborative efforts and partnership.This episode is packed with inspiring real-life stories of transformation and change.

In this episode Adesuwa Ifedi, Senior Vice President, Heifer Africa, shares her remarkable journey, challenges, and successes in tackling hunger and poverty in Africa.She also shared expert insights on:▪Challenging the status quo for sustainable progress▪Leveraging local expertise for effective solutions▪Fostering collaborative partnerships for lasting impactJoin the conversation shaping the future!

Do you know that reluctance to share stories of transformed lives and communities is not necessarily an act of nobility? In reality, storytelling and impact marketing are pivotal drivers of transformative progress that extends beyond individuals and organizations, and reluctance to share impactful narratives can actually hinder meaningful change. In our latest episode of ACTPOD, Osayi Alile, CEO, ACT Foundation and Amaechi Okobi, Chief Brand and Communications Officer, Access Holdings shared invaluable insights on the importance of storytelling for nonprofits, particularly in the context of building the "Brand Africa."

In this inspiring episode of ACTPOD, Mr. Michael Showunmi, Founder of Raising Stars Africa, shares his remarkable journey of living with disability for over 20 years. From navigating challenges to embracing his uniqueness, Michael's story is proof that resilience and determination can overcome even the most daunting obstacles. His experience led him to start Raising Stars Africa, a nonprofit dedicated to changing the narrative about disability. In just 4 years, they have impacted over 7,000 children across Nigeria, and are striving for global impact. Click the link in our bio to listen to Michael's story and be part of the conversation!

The staggering reality of eye health worldwide is a pressing concern. Approximately 2.2 billion people suffer from various eye health issues, with limited access to essential care. However, amidst this challenge, inspiring stories of hope and transformation emerge. In this episode of ACTPod, Mrs Abimbola Ogundirahun, Country Manager VisionSpring Nigeria, shares inspiring stories alongside Mr. Ernest Eseka, a beneficiary of Vision Spring's life-changing initiatives. VisionSpring's achievements are remarkable. Over 400,000 individuals have received eyeglasses, restoring their vision and revitalizing their lives. ACT Foundation's partnership with the organization has also played a pivotal role in expanding its reach and impact.

Do you know that no matter how advanced or well-funded a sector is, it cannot achieve significant progress in addressing the multifaceted challenges of the African continent? In this episode, Dr. Igazeuma Okoroba, Group Head of Sustainability at Dangote Cement (Nigeria and Pan Africa), and Titilayo Oshodi, Special Adviser on Climate Change and Circular Economy to the Governor of Lagos state, shared practical ideas on effective collaboration between the social sector and the government, as well as the private sector. Hearing their personal experiences and invaluable advice on how to navigate the complexities of collaboration will truly revolutionize your social impact journey. Stream now.

Did you know that most nonprofits do not survive beyond 5-10 years due to poor structure and succession planning? In this episode, Oreva Atanya, Head of Sustainability at Lagos Business School, reveals the secret to nonprofit sustainability. Her expert analysis reveals how to incorporate a business model for long-term success and the power of institutionalizing nonprofits beyond passionate causes. Dive in!

In this episode, uncover the transformative power of education as our guest, May Oghenerukeme Asagba, a vibrant social impact leader, takes us on a journey to impacting thousands of children through education. As a young teenager, May conceived a vision for CAIN Africa after witnessing the challenge many children had with accessing quality education. At 21, she founded Catering for Africans in Need (CAIN), empowering over 10,000 underprivileged children across 10 African countries. In this inspiring episode, May shares her remarkable journey, practical advice, and life-changing stories.

From an unplanned advocate to a passionate champion of education, Folawe Omikunle shares her inspiring journey on ACTPod! As Executive Director of Teach for Nigeria, she has led the organization to impact over 300,000 students across 600 schools in Nigeria. In this episode, Folawe reveals the backstory behind this remarkable transformation and the lessons learned along the way.

What do you know about ESG? What do you know about the 'S' in ESG? In this episode, Oluwasoromidayo George, Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Director, Coca-Cola Company, sheds lights on ESG practices and goals with specific focus on the 'Social' component for nonprofits and social impact. Learn ways to incorporate Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and other social practices for sustainable development as ESG expert, Oluwasoromidayo George, shares from her wealth of knowledge and experience on the subject.

“The National Bureau of Statistics states that the unemployment rate of young people under the ages of 15-24 years was 7.2% in 2023”. In this episode, Mrs. Funmi Adeyemi, Chief Executive Officer, After-School Graduate Development Centre (AGDC), narrates the motivating story of AGDC and its mission to tackle unemployment in Nigeria through comprehensive job creation initiatives and skills empowerment for young people.

Statistics tell us that 1 in 4 girls will experience a case of gender violence before the age of 18. Tune in to our latest episode of ACTPOD, where we sit with Dr. Kemi DaSilva Ibru, the visionary behind the Women at Risk International Foundation (WARIF). She shares the WARIF approach to breaking the culture of silence surrounding gender-based violence, from advocacy and education to collaboration with key stakeholders.

Did you know that over a billion people, that is approximately 15% of the world’s population, live with some form of disability? The Irede Foundation story introduces us to a journey of hope and resilience to change the lives of hundreds of persons living with disabilities. In this conversation, Crystal Chigbu, Executive Director, Irede Foundation, shares the Irede Foundation story, a journey of passion, drive, collaborations, challenges and successes, as they lift many children living with disabilities from adversity to triumph. Dive into this episode and get inspired. Leave a a comment and don't forget to share.

In this episode, we dive into the Women’s Technology Empowerment Centre (WTEC) story of change and impact in Africa. Oreoluwa Lesi, ED/Founder, WTEC, shares with us her groundbreaking adventure in the tech space over the last 20 years; from the difficulties she has conquered to the important lessons she has gathered along the way. Get ready to be inspired!

Did you know that 37 percent of children in Nigeria, equivalent to 6 million children, suffer from chronic malnutrition or low weight?Our guest Michael Sunbola, the founder of Lagos Food Bank Initiative, a non-profit organization that provides food and nutrition support to vulnerable people in Nigeria, shares with us how Lagos Food Bank started in 2015 with a vision to end hunger and malnutrition in Africa's most populous city, the challenges and opportunities experienced. Get ready to be inspired by amazing stories of transformation and empowerment from the beneficiaries of Lagos Food Bank.

In this special episode, ACTPod featured two youngsters, each a trailblazer in their own right. Ayomide Akran, CEO of Pink Diva Organization and Amarachi Nwuneli - Founder, of Preserve Our Roots both had a chat with us about their remarkable journeys, from the challenges they have surmounted to the invaluable lessons they have learned through philanthropy. Join us as we unravel the narratives of resilience, resourcefulness, and unwavering commitment to social change.

Did you know that Nigeria currently has only 85 Oncologists? "With 125,000 new Cancer cases every year, it is evident that Nigeria is not covered by Oncologists and the way to bridge the Cancer Care gap is to employ innovative strategies, using technology" - Dr Omolola Salako. In this episode, our guests Dr Omolola Salako and Gloria Okwu speak about their mission to improve access to cancer care and the innovative strategies they employ to bring this into fruition. Dr Omolola Salako is a Clinical Oncologist and Founder of Sebeccly Cancer care, a non-profit that provides cancer information service and cancer screening. Gloria Okwu is a Breast Cancer survivor and Programme Coordinator at Project Pink Blue, a cancer organization engaged in cancer awareness, free cancer screenings, support to people battling with cancer, patient navigation, advocacy, fundraising for cancer patients, cancer research, oncology training and psychological support.

Sustainability is the heartbeat of social impact!In this new season, Ini Abimbola, CEO of Thistle Praxis Consulting Limited unpacks the components and importance of sustainability, the fundamentals of ESG and key strategies for ensuring that organizations remain sustainable. She also sheds light on the impact of social sector leaders on Africa's development.

The Chess in Slums story is very inspiring. From the circumstances that birthed the idea to the innovative projects and impact, this episode highlights the impact of innovative funding for local philanthropy, spotlighting Chess in Slums Africa. Tunde Onakoya is a Nigerian National Chess Master and coach who founded Chess in Slums Africa in 2017. He is driven by the conviction that chess can serve as a powerful educational tool to improve young lives and foster a new generation of intellectuals, even among underprivileged communities.

In this new and exciting episode of our Podcast, the CEO of Aspire Coronation Trust (ACT) Foundation, Osayi Alile, shares with us a review of the book series published by ACT Foundation – The Non-profit Guidebook Series. She highlights some of the secrets of building a successful non-profit, the associated challenges of running nonprofit and proactive ways to deal with them. She also discusses the importance of branding, building new partnerships and collaboration and so on. Osayi Alile is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), ACT Foundation a grant-making non-profit organisation that provides funding to social sector organisations focused in the areas of Health, Entrepreneurship, Environment and Leadership.

In Episode 11, Mr. Conor Brosnan highlights some of the drivers of systematic changes in Africa, citing practical examples from his Foundation's work and presence in Africa. He emphasized on the importance of trust in non profit collaboration. Mr. Brosnan is the CEO of Small Foundation, a philanthropic organisation based in Ireland working to catalyze and scale income-generating opportunities for people living in extreme poverty in rural sub-saharan Africa.

In this episode of ACTPOD Ms. Zouera Youssoufou shares with us the state of philanthropy in Africa and how it has contributed to the continent's economic development. She emphasizes the need for Africans to come to Africa's aid and shares insights on sustainable strategies to secure funding for social impact interventions. Ms. Zouera Youssoufou is the Managing Director/CEO of Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF), the largest private Foundation in Africa. She leads the Foundation's efforts to improve the health, nutrition, education and economic empowerment outcomes for the needy in Africa.

Did you know that giving in Africa by Africans tripled during the Covid -19 pandemic? In this Episode of ACTPod, we had a chat with Mosun Layode, a development professional with two decades of experience in international development and nonprofit leadership. She serves as the Executive Director of the African Philanthropy Forum (APF) where she works extensively across Africa with established and emerging philanthropists who are committed to the sustainable and inclusive development of Africa.  Ms Layode takes us through her journey into the philanthropic space, the phenomenal efforts APF is making to transform the culture of giving and foster prosperity in Africa. She also sheds light on the ongoing collaboration between donors and non-profits, and ways that non-profits can leverage available funding opportunities. Ms Layode currently sits on notable nonprofit boards such as Candid, Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, AMPforHealth. An alumnus of the United States International Visitors Leadership Program, Mosun has been identified by Forbes as one of the black women to watch in philanthropy.

In this episode, Foluso provides helpful tips for leading teams successfully, surmounting challenges and maintaining grit in the advent of disruption.

Dr. Abosede Lewu, a consultant obstetrician and gynecologist and also founder of the Girlsaide Initiative, appears on this episode of ACTPod titled "Changemakers Series" with Dr. Abosede Lewu as she speaks on her organization's interventions with women and girls on sexual and reproductive health issues and the Keep All Mothers Alive (KAMA) Project.

Ms Temitope Okunnu, Founder of FABE International Foundation, appears on this episode of ACTPod titled "Changemakers Series with Temitope Okunnu" In this episode, she talks about how her organization focuses on experiential advocacy that exposes one to education, empowerment, waste management and conservation.

Mr. Gbenga Sesan, Executive Director of the Paradigm Initiative, appears on this episode of ACTPod titled "Supporting the Next Generation of Frontrunners." In this episode, he talks about his experiences connecting African youths with digital opportunities and safeguarding digital rights for all.

Dr. Glory Edozien, LinkedIn Visibility Coach and Thought Leadership Expert, appears on this episode of ACTPod to discuss why organizations need to be visible and effective strategies for organizations to boost visibility for their work.

The third episode of ACTPod features Mr Michael Ajayi, Country Director of Enactus Nigeria who has done phenomenally well in his sphere of influence through his leadership and entrepreneurship development program for undergraduates. He tells his story of impact, successes, challenges experienced and how he surmounted them.”This episode is titled “Changemakers Series with Michael Ajayi”

The second episode of ACTPod features Mr Oluseyi Oyebisi, Executive Director, Nigeria Network of NGOs, as he sheds light on the myths around running non-profits and the existing untapped opportunities.

This is the maiden edition of ACTPod, the Podcast show of Aspire Coronation Trust Foundation aimed at providing a learning platform for development enthusiasts and telling the story and impact of the social sector in Africa.ACT Foundation, The Journey of Philanthropy, features ACT Foundation's CEO, Osayi Alile, as she tells the ACT Foundation story and our philanthropy journey. She also highlights the importance of Philanthropy, the need for continued private sector partnership, and the untapped opportunities within the social sector space.ACTPod.... Our Story, Our Continent.