Nabila Aguele

Black Female Entrepreneurs needed for Diaspora VC Research Project Research Objectives: 1.Critically analyse system biases and barriers within Venture Capital 2.Conduct primary research to investigate the systemic inequalities against Black Female Entrepreneur’s? 3.Formulate solutions and recommendations Introduction Venture capital is not a level playing field’. (British Business Bank, 2023). VC firms are the critical gatekeeper of technological innovation globally. ‘VC’s decide which new technologies and tech companies are worthy of funding’, (Kleinman,2021). Consequently, excluding marginalised groups in society from the opportunity to build generational wealth and better future for their offspring. Barriers to capital flow for black female entrepreneurs (BFE’s)report (2021) identified three ‘demand side barriers’, within the context of the investment pipeline. a)‘BFE’s access to existing investment instruments is difficult or not possible’. The contributing factors are poor financial literacy and access to financial instruments. The limited ‘access to quality education’ to study business or STEM subjects. Social and economic challenges like lack of generational wealth further compound these issues. b)‘Historical interactions discourage BFE’s from engaging with investors.’ Therefore, a resistance to dilute ownership of their company. c)‘BFE’s have limited ability to ‘bootstrap’ or access early-stage capital’. Contradictorily, bootstrapping is the only option. The Context -       the project is a university module called the live commercial project with Leeds Beckett University. However, I intend to start the fund independently from the university when I complete my studies in September. -       I must conduct primary research to validate the hypothesis; Is there a need for this for fund? And what ‘value creation’ do Black Female Founders desire in a VC Fund? 🔌 Participants needed Are you a Black Female Founder, with experience of VC fund raising? Whether you were successful or not, is no issue. I would love to interview you to substantiate the need for the new fund. Interview slots are available between the 12th – 26th of August 2024. At a flexible time between 8am – 10pm.  The Interviews are under 60mins and conducted remotely. 🔔 Contact me for participant information. And everyone, please share and comment below.  

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Attempting to summarise some of the thoughts discussed in our session at the Enlit Africa 2024. Not easy because it was a discussion where everyone learned from each other while demonstrating how different types of stakeholders need to collaborate.. Energy poverty is not only lack to access, its also non-affordability, its lack of choice...it's so much more... The target of SDG 7 is too ambitious (aren't they all?)...we need to take a step at a time and learn by trying.. Jarredine Morris #greatmindsthinkalike Sub-Saharan Africa: Historical underdevelopment, economic constraints, vast rural areas, institutional quality and rapid population growth complicate grid expansion or the adoption of other solutions to provide energy access. Outdated infrastructure and reliance on traditional biomass exacerbate the issue. Respect to communities needs is crucial. "we" don't know everything and "we" can't prescribe solutions... Companies, like Shaun Portmann CA (SA) indicated, experience high risk conditions..institutional and policy support can change their present and future and might be the turn the sector needs. #energypoverty #energypolicy Enlit Africa South African Association for Energy Economics (SAAEE)

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ARFH Advances Family Planning Initiatives Through Strategic Collaboration on BMGF-Supported CODSAiN Project As part of the on-going efforts under the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation-supported CODSAiN project, which focuses on contributing to reduction of unmet family planning needs in Nigeria, particularly for women in hard-to-reach communities, ARFH project's team led by the Director of Programs, Dr. Kolapo Oyeniyi, paid an advocacy visit to the Director, Health Planning, Research, and Statistics (DPRS), FMoH, Dr.Kamil Shoretire and his team to strengthen collaborative efforts on data management Also present at the discussions were Dr. Uba Sabo, Program Manager for the CODSAiN project, Mr. Samson Olorunju, the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Manager, Dr. Anthony Adoghe  and Mr. John Bisong, both from the PRS department. This strategic engagement reflects ARFH's commitment to enhancing and supporting the FMoH to explore synergies aimed at optimizing the country’s modern Contraceptive Prevalence Rate (mCPR) through access to family planning services and using quality data to improve FP outcomes across Nigeria’s underserved communities. #ARFH #FamilyPlanning #CODSAiNProject #BMGF #HealthData #FMoH #ReproductiveHealth #MCPR #UnderservedCommunities #HealthAccess #FPOutcomes #PublicHealth

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I am pleased to inform you about a new publication([the first of two volumes]kindly see link below)which provides a critical take on the first thirty years of Ghana's Fourth Republic and with it the possibilities for Ghana's politics and society in the coming decades. https://lnkd.in/dyVp9Jej The 14 Chapters are the cerebral output of an impressive cast of Ghana research focused and Ghanaian scholars covering a diverse range of issues such as party politics, constitutional law, gender issues, political communication, media politics, CEO activism, and political history among others. This work will arguably be the most authoritative work yet on Ghana's society and politics in the first critical 30 years of the Fourth Republic for which reason it cannot be by-passed or avoided referentially when scholars, researchers, and students across the world reflect on this key era in question. It is worth noting that this book was planned to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Fourth Republic and the 60th Anniversary of the Department of Political Science(Ghana's premier and oldest university level department for the study, research and training in the discipline). For me personally, this is my second book of 2024(of a treble of books 2024). On another personal note, it was cerebrally orgasmic revisiting(60 years after its publication in 1964) the classic political tome of the venerable Dennis Austin, Politics in Ghana, 1946-1960, in a chapter( https://lnkd.in/ddvzBEeS) in which I perform a critical backward and forward gaze in the light of the politics of the Fourth Republic. PAY ATTENTION

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I am happy to share the link to my contribution to the volume, "Women and Finance in Africa". In chapter 8, I explored the premises for financial inclusion that preclude access by women in Nigeria. These findings present actionable points for policy stakeholders at all levels. See the link below https://lnkd.in/d22SVMSS.

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Prof. Amb. Maria Nzomo, PHD., EBS, MBS’s exploration of mediation's social dimensions highlights its significant potential to enhance access to justice, especially for marginalized communities. Her argument underscores several key points: Key Points from Prof. Nzomo’s Argument 1. Bridging the Justice Gap:   - Accessibility: Mediation provides an alternative to traditional court systems, making justice more accessible to those who might find formal legal proceedings intimidating or difficult to navigate.   - Reduced Formalities: Unlike formal judicial processes, mediation often involves less bureaucracy and procedural complexity, which can be less daunting for individuals unfamiliar with the legal system. 2. Relevance in Rural Areas:   - Limited Judicial Infrastructure: In many rural areas, formal judicial infrastructure is limited or non-existent. Mediation can fill this gap by providing a mechanism for dispute resolution where formal courts are unavailable.   - Local Adaptability: Mediation processes can be adapted to fit the cultural and social contexts of rural communities, making them more relevant and effective. 3. Empowering Marginalized Communities:   - Voice and Participation: Mediation often emphasizes direct dialogue between parties, giving marginalized individuals a greater opportunity to express their concerns and participate in the resolution process.   - Community-Based Solutions: Mediation can incorporate local customs and values, allowing solutions to be more culturally appropriate and acceptable. 4. Cost-Effectiveness:   - Lower Costs: Mediation typically involves lower costs compared to traditional litigation, making it a more feasible option for individuals and communities with limited financial resources. 5. Building Relationships:   - Collaborative Approach: Mediation fosters a collaborative rather than adversarial approach to dispute resolution, which can help preserve relationships and promote community harmony. Practical Implications 1. Training and Awareness:   - Increasing awareness about the benefits of mediation and providing training for mediators in rural and marginalized communities can enhance the effectiveness of this approach. 2. Integration with Formal Systems:   - While mediation offers many advantages, integrating it with formal judicial systems can ensure that it complements rather than replaces existing legal frameworks, providing a comprehensive approach to justice. 3. Policy Support:   - Advocating for policy changes that support the use of mediation in underserved areas and provide resources for its implementation can help scale its benefits to a broader population. She suggests that mediation is a valuable tool for improving access to justice, especially for those who face barriers in traditional legal systems. Lady Justice Joyce Aluoch Samuel Mbiriri Nderitu, FCIArb, FMIArb Fredrick Otieno Aoko, Esq.(NYSBA),PhD.C,NCPM, FCIArb,CPM-EMIN/FMC.

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Corporate Governance and Its Impact on the Board of Directors as Oversight for Sierra Leone Revenue Generating Stream Agencies Corporate governance is crucial in managing and controlling organizations, especially in the public sector. Sierra Leone recognizes the importance of governance in ensuring accountability and transparency within revenue-generating agencies. The global focus on governance arose from corporate scandals like Enron's collapse, emphasizing the need for effective oversight. Sierra Leone implemented the Corporate Governance Code in 2020 to enhance governance structures in public entities like the National Revenue Authority, National Minerals Agency etc. The code emphasizes the board of directors' role in prioritizing the interests of citizens and the government. Boards are tasked with strategic direction, performance monitoring, and resource stewardship to ensure fair revenue distribution among stakeholders. Challenges persist in some agencies, including fund misallocation and weak enforcement of governance standards. To address these issues, boards must uphold accountability in financial reporting and transparency in revenue collection. While progress has been made in some agencies, others struggle with internal conflicts and limited resource management capabilities. The board of directors acts as a bridge between principals (the state and citizens) and agents (agency management) to facilitate effective governance. Establishing positive relationships between these parties is critical and requires stakeholder engagement and communication. Public consultations and community outreach programs help ensure stakeholders' voices are heard in decision-making processes. Building trust between stakeholders remains a challenge due to political influence and lack of transparency. Boards must create an environment conducive to open dialogue and trust-building to align interests effectively. Despite the successes in fair revenue distribution and stakeholder engagement, continuous efforts are needed to strengthen board dynamics and operational transparency. The Corporate Governance Code represents a crucial step towards accountability and effective management in revenue-generating agencies in Sierra Leone. By focusing on oversight, stakeholder trust, and ethical practices, boards can contribute to sustainable economic development. Upholding governance principles will not only enhance revenue generation but also support Sierra Leone's journey towards prosperity. #Insightonsierraleonecorporategovernancecode

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 Thrilled to announce the release of the menABLE research report—a vital resource shedding light on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) online. GBV, a threat to the physical and mental well-being of people has now evolved into a digital realm, exacerbated by the surge in digital technologies' usage. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has fuelled this shift, amplifying the complexity and reach of GBV. 📖Our report delves deep into this issue, exploring how the digital ecosystem has become hostile not only for women and girls but also for other vulnerable groups and minorities. 🔍Dive into the latest insights derived from literature reviews, focus groups, and interviews involving diverse stakeholders and experts. Explore intervention areas and comparative analysis across partner countries: Belgium, Denmark, and Greece. Download your copy now to empower your initiatives against GBV online! https://lnkd.in/eZ8UvxWS

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🔔 Blog Post: Transforming Childcare in Kenya: A Catalyst for Women’s Economic Growth. This blog is based on a fieldtrip and fact-finding mission in 3 counties undertaken by ICRW Africa in collaboration with several childcare actors in Kenya to inform an ongoing participatory research and policy engagement initiative. It discusses the crucial role of childcare services in supporting women's economic empowerment and children's development in Nairobi, Vihiga, and Kisumu counties. It highlights misconceptions and structural barriers hindering quality childcare, the economic implications for women, and the need for accessible, affordable childcare. The blog emphasizes that improving childcare services can drive women's participation in the workforce and broader economic growth. It calls for a multifaceted approach to address misconceptions, improve standards, and ensure support. Enjoy the read, provide thoughts and comments, and point us to available published evidence and even lived experiences. https://lnkd.in/dqBdDiDF Kerryn MagakFaith Tsuma,Maureen Kangere,Marion Ouma,Evelyne OpondoLucy MinayoDan Ouko@Blandina Ijecha BobsonEva Komba

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ARFH Advances Family Planning Initiatives Through Strategic Collaboration on BMGF-Supported CODSAiN Project As part of the on-going efforts under the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation-supported CODSAiN project, which focuses on contributing to reduction of unmet family planning needs in Nigeria, particularly for women in hard-to-reach communities, ARFH project's team led by the Director of Programs, Dr. Kolapo Oyeniyi, paid an advocacy visit to the Director, Health Planning, Research, and Statistics (DPRS), FMoH, Dr.Kamil Shoretire and his team to strengthen collaborative efforts on data management Also present at the discussions were Dr. Uba Sabo, Program Manager for the CODSAiN project, Mr. Samson Olorunju, the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Manager, Dr. Anthony Adoghe  and Mr. John Bisong, both from the PRS department. This strategic engagement reflects ARFH's commitment to enhancing and supporting the FMoH to explore synergies aimed at optimizing the country’s modern Contraceptive Prevalence Rate (mCPR) through access to family planning services and using quality data to improve FP outcomes across Nigeria’s underserved communities. #ARFH #FamilyPlanning #CODSAiNProject #BMGF #HealthData #FMoH #ReproductiveHealth #MCPR #UnderservedCommunities #HealthAccess #FPOutcomes #PublicHealth

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Building a Resilient and Prosperous Africa through Education As we celebrate Africa Day and the Year of Education, let's recognize the critical role quality education plays in driving socio-economic transformation, innovation, and sustainable development. The Challenge: Africa's next generation needs skills and knowledge to navigate a complex and digital world. Modernizing our educational systems to include digital literacy, critical thinking, and adaptability is crucial. Call to Action: - Governments: Invest in education infrastructure, teacher training, and digital technologies - Educational Institutions: Integrate 21st-century skills into curricula and embrace innovative teaching methods - Private Sector: Fund scholarships, infrastructure projects, and technology initiatives - Civil Society Organizations: Promote education and advocate for policies that support educational improvements - Individuals: Volunteer, stay informed, and advocate for necessary changes. Spotlight on Innovative Organizations. Today, I want to shine the spotlight on SEED Care & Support Foundation who is revolutionizing education with innovative approaches and a commitment to excellence. Their dedication to reaching the last mile and providing quality education to all is truly inspiring! As Chair of the Advisory Board, I am proud of how far they have come and look forward to supporting them to do much more.  I also acknowledge the incredible work Irene Bangwell and her co-founder are doing at The KNOSK N100-a-day Secondary School. Let's recognize and support the work and the positive change organizations such as these are driving in our communities. Together, we can build a resilient, innovative, and prosperous Africa for tomorrow. #AfricaDay #QualityEducation #Innovation #Leadership #EducationMatters

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This week's quote emphasizes supporting policies that drive development. We also acknowledge the efforts of some NGO's and CSO's in the Niger Delta that have spearheaded the drafting and advocacy of effective policies. Policymaking involves a diverse range of actors, from the government to interest groups, all of whom shape decisions impacting society. It's about listening to various voices and understanding the dynamic social, economic, and political landscape. #quoteoftheweek #policymakingfordevelopment #nigerdeltadevelopment   Visit NDLink.org to stay up to date on everything about development in the Niger Delta region Connect with us for real-time updates on Development News, Jobs Resources, and Trends by following us on LinkedIn (@NDLink), Facebook, and Instagram (@NDLinkonline), and on X (@_NDLink). Olowonirejuaro Oreoluwa, PMP® Policy Shapers Policy Alert Ebenezar Wikina IBISO IKIROMA-OWIYE (Ib-Henshaw) Connected Development [CODE] PIND Foundation Tijah Bolton-Akpan New Nigeria Foundation (NNF) Connected Development [CODE] United Nations Stakeholder Democracy Network UN SDSN Youth - Nigeria FEDERAL MINISTRY OF FINANCE, BUDGET & NATIONAL PLANNING NIGERIA

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Our own Prof. Willem Fourie was priviledged to participate in a dialogue between major donors at the ODI headquaters in London to discuss the future of development aid. Central to the discussions was the theme of how Northern donor institutions can remain relevant in a post-aid world where earlier aid narratives no longer hold. The dialogue aims to create consensus on adapting development policy to today's interconnected challenges. Read a review of the event here: https://lnkd.in/eMxP6DsJ #DevelopmentAid #AidPolicy #ODI #Aid #GlobalPartnerships 🌍🏗️

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ADVOCATES FOR HEALTH AND RIGHTS OF WOMEN AND YOUTH INITIATIVE (ADHERI) convened a policy roundtable recently in Lagos to explore the intersection of arts and policy in combating gender-based violence (GBV). The event brought together stakeholders, experts, and advocates to discuss leveraging artistic expression and policy frameworks to create lasting change. Key outcomes of the roundtable include: Exploring the potential of arts-based advocacy strategies to raise awareness and spark conversations around GBV. Identifying policy interventions to effectively address GBV in Nigeria. Developing concrete action steps and art-based solutions to inform a policy brief aimed at combating GBV. ADHERI aims to use the insights from this roundtable to create a comprehensive policy brief that will be shared with policymakers, advocates, and stakeholders across Nigeria. By combining the power of art and effective policy, ADHERI envisions a future free from violence and inequality for all Nigerians. #GBV #ArtsAndPolicy #Advocacy #PolicyBrief #Nigeria #WomenRights #Youth #NYFF #ADHERI #TheNigeriaWeWant #AdvocatesNearYou

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How do we shift perspectives in #safeguarding to create models that also address the underlying broken #systems that contribute to harm? I'm really excited to again learn from Tosin on this upcoming #interactive #online #training with a global group of peers from dozens of countries!

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Equity in research is about embedding fairness and justice at every step, ensuring the process reflects and respects the communities it aims to serve. This video underscores the importance of equitable research, highlighting projects like the SMHM report—a community-led study by Black women, for Black women. By prioritising a human-centered approach, the SMHM team created meaningful ways for participants to contribute, such as offering reflective sessions at 9pm to accommodate mothers with young children. Equitable research is about more than data; it's about creating spaces where all voices can be heard on their own terms. #EquityInResearch #CommunityEngagement #DiversityInResearch #HumanCenteredResearch #SMHMReport #citoons You can see the full video Research Ethics from SciToons on You Tube here: https://lnkd.in/e4T3xiS9 #SMHM2024 #seemehearme24 #smhmcommunityresearch #smhmcommunitydata Catalyst 4 Change CIC Dr Tamanda Walker Rebeca Sandu Black Thrive Amaka Asiodu Chloe Agbe Chantelle Pemberton La Keiya Robinson Ava Clarke Natasha Subi Amina Ibrahim MBE @adewuyi abidoun

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This is an evidence of the official (Federal Government 's) receptivity of Restorative Justice in Nigeria. Our work, research and advocacy on the subject matter are not in vain. #restorative #justice #policy #Nigeria https://lnkd.in/epUNJkg3

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"Responsible business conduct is paramount, especially in sectors like mining where its impacts reverberate across communities and environments. Embracing the principles of Business and Human Rights is not just ethical but imperative for sustainable development. The recent video by the Centre for Environment Justice (CEJ) on Sinazongwe underscores the consequences of irresponsible practices in the mining sector. Watch the eye-opening video here: [https://lnkd.in/dFw6KCup]. Let's advocate for accountability and integrity in every step of our business endeavours. ✊ #ResponsibleBusiness #BusinessandHumanRights #Sustainability"

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🚨 Will Urban Youth Fundamentally Change African Politics? As part of a new feature, DiA will be regularly sharing with you the best Africa related content from the brilliant new People, Power and Politics podcast brought to you by the Centre for Elections, Democracy, Accountability and Representation (CEDAR). Will Africa’s increasingly youthful population lead to new democratic and development breakthroughs? Or will it generate fresh instability as frustrated young people demand economic opportunities their governments cannot provide? In this episode, I talk to Professors Amy Patterson and Megan Hershey about their recent book Africa’s Urban Youth. They explain how young people across Africa are contesting marginalization and claiming citizenship, and set out the broader context that led to Kenya’s youth-led protests of June/July 2024. They also push back against simple binaries that depict the youth as either a problem or a solution – the reality, they point out, is both more nuanced and more interesting. To listen, just follow this link 👇 https://lnkd.in/easnsVCu

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