OUR TEAM

MANAGEMENT

PROFESSOR PATRICK OKEDINACHI UTOMI

Entrepreneur / Management Expert and Professor of Political Economy / Chairman GIFTED Advisory Board

Professor Patrick Utomi, a Nigerian Citizen currently holds the position of Chairman of the Advisory Board for GIFTED. Patrick Okedinachi Utomi (born February 6, 1956) is a Nigerian professor of political economy and management expert. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants of Nigeria and a former presidential candidate with a passion for the dignity of the human person and the spirit of enterprise. Professor Okedinachi Utomi is the founder of Centre for Value in Leadership (CVL) and the African Democratic Congress party. He is a professor at Lagos Business School. Patrick Okedinachi Utomi has served in senior positions in government, as an adviser to the president of Nigeria, the private sector, as Chief Operating Officer for Volkswagen of Nigeria and in academia. Patrick Utomi was born in Kaduna, Kaduna State[4] he is a descent of Igbuzo in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State.[4] He had his primary education at St. Thomas, Kano 1960-62;[4] Our Lady of Fatima, Gusau 1962-1966;[4] Christ the King College, Onitsha[4] and Loyola College, Ibadan,[4] finishing his secondary education at the age of 15.

The entry age for university education was 17, so he enrolled at the Federal School of Arts and Science in the interim. He later got admission into the University of Nigeria, Nsukka in 1973 to study Mass Communication. Patrick Utomi graduated from university of Nigeria Nsukka in 1977,[4] He attended Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA, where he got his PhD. D. MPA, MA.[4] Appointed professor of the Social and Political Economy Environment of Business and Pioneer Entrepreneurship[7] Teacher at Lagos Business School[6] in 2003. he has been a scholar-in-residence at the Harvard Business School and the American University in Washington, D.C. Career

Within a few months of his return to Nigeria from Bloomington, Indiana, United States, where he did graduate work, Pat got enlisted by the former vice-president Alex Ekwueme to provide consultancy on some public policy papers. Soon after, he was appointed Special Assistant by former president Shehu Shagari^[3] a position he lost following the military coup of December 1983, which terminated the Second Republic .

Following the demise of the Second Republic, he became chairman/chief executive officer, Utomapp Holdings Limited, 1984–86,and assistant general manager, corporate affairs, Volkswagen of Nigeria Limited, Lagos, 1983-93.^[2]

He was scholar-in-residence, American University, Washington DC, USA, 1996 and research associate, the Harvard Business School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA, 1996. (Lagos Business school started operating in 1991.)

He also belongs to many professional bodies. He is a member, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, NIPR, Institute of Directors, IOD, Nigeria Economic Summit Group and Nigeria Economic Society.

He coordinated the establishment of several civil society groups on good governance and accountability such as Transparency in Nigeria, the Centre for Values in Leadership, the Concerned Professionals, and the Restoration Group. In the business sphere, Utomi was the vice-chairman, Platinum–Habib Bank. He is a columnist, and chairman, BusinessDay Media Limited and creator of Patito’s Gang, a television talk show.^{[citation needed]}

He has served on the key apex private sector associations including the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), the National Council of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, he is also the chairman of Poise Nigeria Limited, and the Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA). He is active on the international speaking circuit, especially on the subjects of growth economics, comparative development, leadership, oil and China’s economic surge and growing influence in Africa. He has collaborated frequently with the center for strategic and international studies (CSIS) in Washington, and Chatham House, in the UK. He has also written commissioned papers for the UKs DFID including the latest collaboration with Colleagues from Oxford on the Political Economy of growth in Nigeria. (2006).

Utomi also ran a failed attempt for presidency of Nigeria in 2011.

Honors and awards

Nominated and voted by the Public as one of Nigeria’s top ten Living Legends in the Vanguard/Silverbird Television Awards.^[8]
Great Nigeria Lives of the 20th Century;^[9]
Who is who in Africa^[4]

Books and selected publications

Utomi P., Nigeria as an Economic Power House, Can it be Achieved in Robert P Rothberg (ed) Crafting the New Nigeria – Confronting the Challenges. Lynne Rienner Publishers Boulder Co. 2004 pg 125 – 138
Utomi P. Nigeria “Changes as Prospects” in the Africa Competitiveness Report (ed) Jeffrey Sachs, World Economic Forum 2000
Utomi P, Performance under Constraints. The Nigeria Press Under Military Rule. Gazette Vol 28 1982
Utomi P, Historical – Philosophical Foundations of Government Ownership of Newspapers in Nigeria. Gazette vol 27 no 1 1981
Utomi P, Values and Economic Stagnation in Africa: A Paradox of Poverty in Nigeria. The International Journal of African Studies Vol. 3.2. Spring 2004
Utomi P, Managing Uncertainty: Competition and Strategy in Emerging Economies. Ibadan. Spectrum Books 1998
Utomi P, To Serve is to Live. Ibadan. Spectrum Books, 1999
Utomi P, Critical Perspectives in Political Economy and Management, Ibadan. Spectrum Books, 2000
Utomi P, Why Nations are Poor, Lagos. Business Day Books 2006
Utomi P, Business Angel as a Missionary, London. Makeway Press, 2010
Utomi P, Conscience: Opinions in the Struggle for Nation Building, Lagos Patike Book 1999
Utomi P, Perspectives: Further Thoughts in the Quest for National Rebirth Patike Books, 2000.
Edited Volumes of Interview with Pat Utomi. Golden Thoughts compiled by Godfrey Obioma Intec Press 2004.
In the words of Pat Utomi edited by Uju Onyechere, Lagos. Benson Edwards Publications, 2003
Pat Utomi: A Purpose driven life: Interviews of Pat Utomi by Godfrey Obioma
The Duty to Lead: An article by Pat Utomi
Contributor to 40 First Job: A book by Ukinebo Dare
The Art of Leading: Open Secrets of Leadership Effectiveness. CVL/Makeway Press, 2015

Keynotes speeches

Keynote speaker at the Annual Conferences of the following:

Nigerian Institute of Management
Nigeria Institute of Quantity Surveyors
Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (4 times)
Nigeria Institute of Public Relations
Nigeria Institute of Marketing
Law Society, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ife

Has been guest speaker at the annual Business Club meetings of the Africa Business Club at the Harvard Business School, Wharton, Kellogg School and the TedxEuston at the University of London.

MR. DANIEL JOLLY

Entrepreneur & International Business Consultant / Member GIFTED Advisory Board

Daniel a citizen of the UK, is an accomplished, seasoned Senior Executive with a consistent track record of delivering profitable, sustainable growth within a range of environments in the UK and internationally, especially within the Middle East/Africa and Asia. Daniel is the current Chief Executive and Co-founder of Flying Penguin Enterprises Ltd. Flying Penguin Enterprises is a British based trading house, specialising in Supply Chain, Procurement, Logistics and Consultancy Services to a wide range of prestigious clients, including police, fire and ambulance services, many UK government departments including the Ministry of Defense, major multinationals such as Babcock and Airbus, a wide range of humanitarian aid organs and missions, non-government organizations and some very prestigious export customers.

DR JAN-MARC LISCHKA, Ph.D

Entrepreneur / Business Consultant / Member GIFTED Advisory Board

Dr. Jan-Marc Lischka, a citizen of Germany, supports various organizations as Coach, consultant and business angel. During his career at a German technology multinational, he successfully developed teams and businesses as General Manager, both during growth as well as restructuring phases. Jan is passionate about entrepreneurship, driving technology & digitalization, and leadership innovation. Besides his engagement for GIFTED, his aim is to foster business relationships between African entrepreneurs and global markets. Jan is Industrial Engineer and holds a PhD from Technical University Berlin in Innovation Management. He is married and father of three kids, enjoying exploring different countries and cultures with his family.

H.E Ambassador PROFESSOR U. JOY OGWU

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary / Member GIFTED Advisory Board

Joy Uche Angela Ogwu, a citizen of Nigeria (Ambassador extraordinary and Plenipotentiary) is a former FOREIGN MINISTER of Nigeria and was the PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE of Nigeria to the United Nations in New York from 2008-2016. She is the first woman to hold the post of Permanent Representative to the United Nations in the history of Nigeria. Prior to her ministerial career, Ogwu, who is from Delta State, served as Director–General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA). Ogwu has advised the United Nations on disarmament issues and has published books promoting more African ties to Latin America. She is the former Chair of the Board of Trustees of the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR).

She was appointed Foreign Minister by Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo on August 30, 2006.
In 2008, Ogwu became the Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the UN in New York. Ogwu was the President of the UN Security Council in July 2010 and in October 2011. She was the former President of the Executive Board of the UN Women Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women.
Ogwu obtained her BA and MA in Political Science from Rutgers University. She later received her Ph.D. from the University of Lagos in Nigeria. While obtaining her Ph.D. in 1977, she joined the Institute of International Affairs at the University of Lagos.
Ogwu started her career as an assistant lecturer at the Nigerian National War College and the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS). She subsequently joined the NIIA as a lecturer, obtaining a research fellowship during which she authored her first book, Nigerian Foreign Policy: Alternative Futures (Macmillan, 1986). She eventually headed the research department in International Politics, leading on to her role as the first female Director General. Professor Ogwu's career has been distinct in its additional focus on the developing countries of Latin America enabling an investigation into the possibilities of a proficient South-South relationship between Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America. In this capacity she held a visiting fellowship at the University of London's Institute of Latin American Studies and has been published extensively in Portuguese, Spanish, French and Croatian. As an expert on security issues, she serves on the United Nations Secretary General's Advisory Board on Disarmament Matters.
As a woman in a foremost position in her distinguished career specialization, Ogwu has become a voice for women's development and human rights. In this subject, her perspective spans Asia Pacific, Latin America and Sub-Saharan Africa with prolific publications on regional aspects of the subject. Her participation in the government under the auspices of NIIA and the Presidential Advisory Council on International Relations enabled positive contribution to practical government policy such as the construct of the Nigeria-South America relationship on a macro level and the United Nations Educational Social and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) funded program for teaching human rights in Nigerian Schools on a micro level. Furthermore, her continual role on the Nigerian National Delegation to UN General Assembly exhibits her contribution as an influential figure in the formation of Nigeria's relationship with the rest of the world.

H.E Ambassador LUIZA CRISTINA F. PALMA

GIFTED Cordinator, CPLP Countries / Member GIFTED Advisory Board

Luiza Palma, a citizen of Portugal, Ambassador at Large - IHRC (International Human Rights Commission), Non Executive Board Member Advanced Programme / Ambassador for Peace by UN Women Federation for World Peace-Building / President of WEF, Women Economic Forum / Chairperson for All Ladies League for Portugal / Mentor Of First Colloquium In Portugal Middle East And North Africa Women Ambassadors.LUÌZA PALMA, Born, Africa Angola Nationality: Portuguese, Dame of Magisterial Grace of the Sovereign Order of Malta. NED- Non Executive Board Member Advanced Programme. Ambassador for Peace by UN Women Federation for World Peace-Building. President of WEF, Women Economic Forum Chairperson for ALL _All Ladies League for Portugal Master (5 years) in International Affairs & Master (<4years) in Finance Journalism London Professional Tutoring (M&A Energy Institute Upstream) Former Executive Vice-President of Luso Middle East Economic Instituto in Portugal Former Vice President General Secretary at Luso Guiné Equatorial Economic Institute Mentor Of First Colloquium In Portugal Middle East And North Africa Women Ambassadors. TITLES & ACCOMPLISHMENTS: SDG EARTH AMBASSADORS-2018 © 2018 Copyright of the SDG Earth Ambassadors. All International Rights Reserved. Founder, SDG Earth Ambassadors (under legal registration process) is intergovernmental, and humanitarian. It promotes the “Upgraded Sustainable Development Goals”, which covers a broad range of social and economic development issues, which include overcoming poverty, no hunger, good health, quality education, climate restoration, children issues, gender equality, clean water, and access to good sanitation, affordable energy, clean environment, art, music, and social justice.

It also promotes internationalgoodwill and cooperation.

The motivation and spiritual character of SDG Earth Ambassadors shall be anchored in universal doctrines underlying all traditional world religions, through the common core values of peace, love of human kind, respect for humanity, charity and compassion, healthy human relationships, kindness, and the institution of family units.

The sphere of operations of SDG Earth Ambassadors shall be global and operates in every country and region that it has diplomatic relationships or needs the assistance of the Organization.

ONE EARTH ONE PEOPLE, LLC-2018
Board of Directors, Chief Ambassador Liaison to the United Nations
THE FOOD BANK AGAINST HUNGER –Portugal Leader of the Food Bank against Hunger on Dental Prevention and Healthcare of National
Programme “Dr. Risadas” -13,500 children to smile 2010 National News.

More than 800 million people in the world are food insecure. Smallholder farmers provide over 80% of the food consumed in large parts of the developing world, but face markets volatile commodity markets that have devastating effects on both growers and consumers.
In Portugal, the Food Bank Against Hunger, consists of 21 food banks in Portugal, which are 21 independent associations and are associated in the Portuguese Federation of Food Banks Against Hunger.
Food banks are Private Institutions of Social Solidarity that fight against the waste of food products, sending them for free distribution to those in need.

In Portugal, active food banks collect and distribute several tens of thousands of tons of products and support throughout the year, the action of more than 2,360 institutions in Portugal. In turn, these distribute confectionery and food baskets to people who are proven to be deprived, with a total distribution of more than 390,000 people.
The first food bank in Portugal was Lisbon, founded by José Vaz Pinto and chaired since 2002 by Isabel Jonet. Today, there are 21 food banks in Portugal, which campaign in supermarkets in which they mobilize many volunteers, being the largest movement of civil society in Portugal.

In 2010 I was Leader of The Food Bank Against Hunger on Dental Prevention and Healthcare of National Programme “Dr. Risadas”- which started in 2009, is aimed at children, ages three to 16, pregnant women, helpers and caregivers of children. Dr. Risadas has already helped 13,500 needy children to smile.

ALL LADIES LEAGUE (ALL) – Portugal & Delhi, India Europe Chair for Gender Parity Causes.

Chairperson of ALL for Portugal
http://www.wef.org.in/luiza-cristina-fernandes-palma/

All Ladies league is the world’s largest All-inclusive international women’s chamber and a global movement for the Welfare, Wealth, and Wellbeing of ALL by empowering women’s leadership. With
over 500+ chapters and 70,000 members across 150 countries. ALL is the fastest growing worldwide web of women where women across strata and societies are coming together to discover their strengths
and leadership in unprecedented ways. We focus on enhancing women’s leadership in ALL fields through Inclusion, Inspiration and Innovation.
WOMEN ECONOMIC FORUM (WEF)- Portugal
President of Women Economic Forum for Portugal
WEF Portugal 2017 was a three day event on the theme “Women In Science, Innovation Creativity” On 15 – 17 October, 2017.
Women Economic Forum is the regional tool or mechanism that the (ALL) All Ladies League uses to provide the debate at country theme regarding equity and gender parity.

In Portugal the year 2017 has been historical on gender evolution because we finally pass the bill regarding 1/3 on public and private board executive seats for women.

The three day WEF- Portugal 2017 was the result of over 200 inspiring women, entrepreneurs and leaders joining in from the European, Nordic and Baltic regions, along with women from Asia, Africa and the
Mediterranean.
An associate of ALL Ladies League (ALL), the Women Economic Forum (WEF) is a global conference to foster empowering conversations and connections among women committed to foster constructive
change in ALL walks of life.
WEF events are mega enablers of peer-exchange and learning in a diverse and interdisciplinary context, and are a powerhouse for massive connections and networking across the globe.
Our events take place throughout the year and across the world, empowering women to expand their business opportunities and increase their global influence. WEF also welcomes men who support the cause of women’s leadership in ALL walks of life.
Our vision remains philanthropic, our spirit non-profit and our mode collaborative.
Social Economic Model INVENTOR, “GENDER PARITY LABEL. - GPL nº588949
A Woman Goes to World Bank Vowing to End Gender Based Salaries
http://bwdisrupt.businessworld.in/article/A-Woman-Goes-to-World-Bank-Vowing-to-End-
Gender-Based-Salaries/15-05-2017-118220#.WSSFoaj0Kkk.whatsapp

Rights with Financial upgrade ratings with Planet Earth prevention through a Label Gender parity for corporations: The concept and economic model of the GENDER PARITY LABEL – GPL:
GENDER PARITY LABEL is a Trademark ™
by Luiza Palma (owner)
Instituto Nacional de Propriedade Industria nº588949.
Classes 45 da Classificação de Nice 1
Classes de Classificação de Viena 2
artgº224 Dec.-Lei 47344/66 25 de Nov.
10 years 27.9.17-27.9.27

It will distinguish the implementation of good governance policies, models and practices for gender equality to parity in public and private sector organizations, both for profit and non-profit through joint
aggregation of the good compliance with the 10 Principle (respect of Human Rights and practices of protection of the Planet Earth) under tax company audit and rating house evaluation for the attribution of this GPL certification.

The raw material of inequality is at companies and corporations level. Corporations are the structure for employment and responsible of Planet Earth consumption. These interactive 3 policies obligations
(ratings+ human rights + protection of Earth planet), will imposed for the economy growth as a result of it implementation. The GPL Model, which is unique on its corporate label certification for gender parity,
seeks transparency and concrete data to ensure that opportunities between workers, men and women is fair and equitable. So far all the models hold a lack of transparency on the economic sublevels of
corporations without showing such data, and rating. The social principles are:

1. Companies should support and recognized human rights protection and ensure their nonparticipation in human rights violations, i.e access to the same opportunities for women; ODS # 5
2. Businesses should support freedom of association.
3. The abolition of forced and compulsory labor.
4. Abolition of child labor.
5. Elimination of discrimination in employment.
6. Environmental protection.
7. Prevention of environmental challenges.
8. Environmental responsibility.
9. Environment-friendly technologies.
10. Anti-corruption.

The world as a whole could increase global GDP by US$28 trillion by 2025 by closing the gender gap in economic participation by25% over the same period.

WOMEN FEDERATION FOR GLOBAL PEACE- NY & Geneva(UN General Consultative Status)

Ambassador for Peace
The Women's Federation for World Peace is NGO in General Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of the UN. It is an organization whose stated purpose is to encourage women to work more actively in promoting peace in their communities and greater society. There are three main ways that WFWP contributes to the work and global mission of the United Nations: Peace-Building
Moral Education and Poverty Eradication. It has members in 143 countries.

ECONOMIC/FINANCIAL & BANKING LINES
Contacts privileged at Governments y, Regulators and Majors Public & Private CEO’s
1. Due to my knowledge over the years in Economic and financial arenas was invited to create Montepio Investment banking after other bank IPO and bringing a total new specific division of banking related to the creation of capital for other companies, governments and other entities.
Montepio Investment Bank was engaged to underwrite new debt and equity securities for all types of corporations, aid in the sale of securities, and help to facilitate mergers and acquisitions,
reorganizations and broker trades for both institutions and private investors.
2. First investment bank to take Portuguese company (ISA) to be place in Euronext Stock Exchange.
3. As Head of Business Development; Head of Brokerage and Private Equity Montepio bank for the first time in 175 years was towards to help corporations, governments and other groups to plan and manage large projects, saving Montepio client time and money by identifying risks
associated with the project before the client moves forward. I was advising on how best to plan their development, as our client tailor made recommendations to the present state of economic
affairs.
4. Responsibilities include formulate and implement division and operational strategies, aligned with Global Group Strategy Management with an overseeing strategic planning;
5. Pursuing the development of strategic partnerships, relationships and alliances with regulators central bank and others bank like Bank of China Protocol
6. Identifying potential organizations for merger or acquisition to expand or bring new lines to the involvement of company Growth; Government and external relationships with regulators, elected officials and key trade associations.
7. Developing new lines of business to achieve the group mission.( Mutualismo Empresarial Board Proposal for 12,4% growth for new associates and new clients; create new line of mutual products with specific strategy)
8. Overseeing strategic planning processes to ensure strategies align with market drivers (Angola, Brazil e Mozambique)

FINANCIAL INDUSTRY ROLES
VP D. Director Mutual Association Montepio / PORTUGAL Jan 2015- Fev 2018
https://www.montepio.org/en/
Support Montepio Geral - Mutual Benefit Association (MGAM since 1875)) Executive Board on the definition and implementation of MGAM development strategy through research and scientific studies to achieve and to contribute to the knowledge of the social principles of the
Montepio, mutualism and the social economy.
Corporate Mutual (Mutualismo Empresarial) for new associates strategy growth targeting 12,4%.
Coordinator of Lab mutual Products Cooperate in promoting mutualism and the social economy principals under MGAM experience
for more than 600.000 associates and 1.2 million clients from the banking division. MGAM was founded in 1840 and is the biggest Mutual in Europe.
Head of Business Development, Montepio / PORTUGAL Nov 2010-Jan2015
Board Investment Committee Representative of Montepio Geral Associação Mutualista at FCR Ventures 2011-2015
Comprehensive knowledge of all matters related to the business of Montepio Group by identifying new prospects and driving business growth by working together with business partners,
High Technologies’ projects local plants; Aerospatiale and software M&A bridging; Sectors Fisheries with 1.2b, Blue Economy business proposal with Norway and FCR fund for Industrial Fisheries Vessel Restructured on 100M Investment; Agro Business covering olive oil Massive production Portugal & Spain; Arabian Horses several Projects; aquaculture; Renewable energy CSP 1.1b€ Iberia, Marina for Leisure and Vessel restruction; Real Estate Funds; Central Bank networking; Biotechnologies Hubs.
Brought Bank of China in Portugal to Commercial Protocol Investment Bank Services;
Takeover License advantage from another Portuguese investment bank
Head of Private Equity
From Scratch projection for the group on private equity- Montepio Ventures
Head of Brokerage
Angola- appointed to be Managing Director 2011
Montepio Museum- Executive Board Proposal

Voluntary work:
The Food Bank against Hunger, Non-Profit Organization / PORTUGAL Julho 2010
http://www.bancoalimentar.pt/
Banco Alimentar_ Entreajuda ( Executive Management Volunteer)
Health Care –Management / Project Manager- DR. RISADAS Health Programme
- National Dental Health Program Development ( 7,893 children )in 18 Districts
- Today this Program covers African countries too.
- National Partnerships with medical Comunity and National TV (RTP)
Executive Investment Consultant / UK 2004 a Julho 2009
Executive Business Development Consultant (MENA & BRIC’s- Brazil, Russia, India, China)
Executive Oil & Gas Negotiator
Business Development Growth
Oil & Gas Concessions M&A Advisory
Companies: Total_ André Goffart, Christian Lemaire/ NOC_ Naim Ghariani, Lybia/ Premoco/
Chevron/ Tullow Oil/ Roc Oil_ Kevin Hird/ Sonangol /Petrobras /Partex /Statoil/ Eton
EnergyMaria Kolesnikova/ ENI/ Gulf Energy/ Shell/ Cairn Texas Pacific/ Hass Petroleum
Nairobi, Keynya_ Issa Sheikh Mohammed/ India Petronet LNG / Maersk Jakob Stampe/ Repsol
António Saldanha de Sá/ Galp Carlos Pinto), Mr. Banga, Clayton Dubilier & Rice LLC
PEARSON PLC, / Mergermarket Group/ Londres / UK
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mergermarket
2002 a 2004
Head of M&A for Iberia, Latin America and W. Africa Intelligence Unit
Responsible of all Portuguese privatizations of Iberia Africa and Brazil
Hill &Knowlton /NR Consulting, Lisboa / PORTUGAL 2000 a 2001
http://www.hillandknowlton.co.uk/
Executive Board Member - Banking services and products

Fincor Corretora, Lisboa / PORTUGAL 1998 a 2000
Marketing & Commercial Executive Board Director (Mentor of National Financial Boutiques)
RTP, Lisboa / PORTUGAL (intership) (P/L) 1998
http://www.rtp.pt/homepage/
National TV Financial Journalist -Financial Times Live Programme 9’
Banco Espírito Santo, Lisboa & Madrid / PORTUGAL & ESPANHA 1987 a 1998
http://www.novobanco.pt/cms.aspx?labelid=nbuk
Trading Room ( 9 Years)
Capital Markets
Senior Trader MMI e Forex/ Asset Management - Funds
Banco Português do Atlântico, Lisboa / PORTUGAL 1986 a 1987
http://ind.millenniumbcp.pt/en/particulares/Pages/Welcome.aspx
Administrative
Ministery of Finance, Lisboa / PORTUGAL 1985
http://www.portugal.gov.pt/en.aspx

Administrative

ACADEMIC BACKGROUND
Non-Executive Board Programme and Strategy, IPCG, Lisboa 2016
Camberwell University, Londres, UK 2005
LPS, Londres, UK 2001
Financial Journalism applied studies, Lisboa, Portugal 1997-98
Economic International Relations, Lisboa, Portugal 1991-96

Scholarship AFS American Field Service - Kansas City, MO, USA 1983-4

LANGUAGES & HOBBIES
Portuguese/ English/ French oral /Spanish oral / Mandarin & Arabic (Introduction)
Columnist & Writer
PROFESSIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS:
Mr. Adbulla Al Salehd, UAE Under Secretary of Trade & Industry; Minister of Economy
https://www.linkedin.com/recs/received?senderId=abdulla-alsaleh-382a5ba4
Kingdom of Bahrain Her Highness Dr. Bahiya Jawad Aljishi , Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium, European Union, Nato and Grand-Duchy of Luxembourg, who so kindly accepted my invitation to be awarded guest speaker in Portugal of Portugal Women Economic Forum in October 2017, who recommend my professional skills from Kingdom of Bahrain.
Dr. José Almeida Serra, Conselho Geral Montepio
Dra. Paula Guimarães, Presidente Fundação Montepio e Presidente do GRACE
Dª Isabel Jonet, President of World Food, Portugal

REV DAVID CHUKWUDI OGBUELI

Management and Government Consultant / Gospel Minister / Member GIFTED Advisory Board

David Ogbueli, a citizen of Nigeria, is the founder of the New Covenant Family Ministries and the Senior Pastor of Dominion City, International. He is also the President of the Dominion Leadership Institute, and a Senior Facilitator in the Institute of National Transformation. David Ogbueli is a minister of the Gospel, and an icon of transformational leadership excellence. His passion for Personal Transformation and National Transformation has produced various initiatives and ministers causing a stir among youth, governments, corporate institutions, the media and other stakeholders both in Africa and globally. He is a Management and Government Consultant who speaks nationally and internationally in organizations, government houses, embassies and churches. He is a widely read author and a social reformer. David Ogbueli is married, with four kids.

H.E Ambassador Dr ED ILECHUKWU, MDiv, PhD, DMin

Founding President,CEO/BRAND ANBASSADOR/ Former Chairman of the Education Steering Committee, Africa Diasporan Health Initiative (ADHI), African Union Permanent Representation to the United States /Member, United Nations Foundation / Member, United Nations Association USA

Dr. Ed is the founding President, CEO and BRAND AMBASSADOR of the nonprofit. His duties are spelled out in the By-Laws, and include leading out meetings of our board of directors, voting on board decisions, and organizing fundraisers. He presides over all the meetings of the board. Dr. Ed is the Former Chairman of the Education Steering Committee of the AFRICAN DIASPORA HEALTH INITIATIVE (ADHI), African Union Permanent Representation to the United States. As a medical student, he joined the National association of Nigerian Students (NANS), as Education Task Force Secretary. Dr. Ed comes with a lot of management experience with corporate America, having worked as a licensed Banker with JP Morgan Chase in New York, Manager of Operations at the Empire State Building, and other highly recognized corporate organizations both in the United States and Africa, and also in the telecommunications industry both here in the United States and West Africa. He was recently honored in New York with a doctorate degree (PhD) for his non-profit work around the world.

MARY FALKENSTERN

Liaison for the Americas

Mary Falkenstern is a volunteer director. She holds the position: LIASON FOR THE AMERICAS for the non profit. Her responsibilities include:- Design and promote social good events, including those required to serve community needs detected by chapter board members. Raise awareness and deliver member value through the promotion/advocacy of chapter social good programs and GIFTED no-cost resources (learning resources, templates, academic scholarships, awards that support engagement in the local community. Engage volunteers through social good programs and opportunities for developing their skills and participating in the community. Network with communities that can benefit from social good programs and free resources provided by GIFTED (e.g., schools, non-profits, other organizations, etc.). As invited, participate in chapter annual planning and propose a yearly business plan specific to GIFTED. Provide board members with regular updates on social good programs being carried out locally. Be knowledgeable about the Guidelines for Social Good Programs. Communicating and Increasing Awareness, promote social good initiatives organized by the chapter through different channels (press, social media, etc.) to increase visibility among your chapter members and local community and provide reports on their impact. Collaborate with and communicate regularly with GIFTED Community Engagement Committee member on a variety of chapter social good programs and planning.

U. SAM ELUMELU

Secretary and Director

Mr. Sam U Elumelu is a volunteer director. He holds the position of Secretary for the organization. His duties are outlined in the bylaws and include: plays a critical role in fostering communication and ensuring proper management and utilization of important organizational records. Communication – He is an active conduit for communication between the board, management, and members, by giving proper notice of any meetings and timely distribution of materials such as agendas and meeting minutes. He is very knowledgeable of the organization’s records and related materials, and is able to provide advice and resources to the board on relevant topics at issue, such as particular governance matters being addressed at a meeting or a new amendment to state corporate law. His aim is to be helpful to the board as they discharge their fiduciary duties. Scheduling, Notice, and Materials. He is tasked with knowing and complying with notice requirements and scheduling meetings to accommodate the directors. Notice requirements can be particularly important and should be complied with strictly, as improper notice can open the organization up to challenge. He is responsible for scheduling board meetings and should ensure an adequate number of meetings are held per year, in accordance with the organization’s bylaws.

Generally, a board can more efficiently and effectively hold a board meeting when the secretary prepares and sends meeting materials far enough in advance of the meeting for each director to review such materials, correct any errors, and prepare questions and comments.
Minutes of Meetings
The secretary is also charged with recording minutes of meetings. Minutes are an important organizational document and provide a memorialized chronology of key information such as board actions, elections of officers or directors, and certain reports from committees and staff. Meeting minutes can have vital legal significance in an IRS examination and as evidence in courts if, for example, someone challenges the validity of certain actions or positions. He is well-equipped to record accurate minutes and be aware and sensitive to any special or confidential information discussed at a meeting. Maintenance of Corporate Records :
As the custodian of the organization’s records, the secretary is responsible for maintaining accurate documentation and meeting legal requirements, such as annual filing deadlines. He has a calendar of filing deadlines, which may include a filing with the corporation’s Secretary of State, the Attorney General, the state tax agency, and the IRS. The secretary is responsible for reviewing and updating documents as necessary and ensuring all documents are safely stored and readily accessible for inspection by directors and/or members. In California, an organization’s articles of incorporation and bylaws, as amended to date, should be available at the corporation’s principal office for inspection. Additionally, it is required that a nonprofit’s exemption application and past three annual returns with the IRS are available for public inspection.
The secretary position has wide-ranging responsibilities, requiring much more than simply being present at all board meetings. Each board should carefully consider how the secretary can best serve their organization.attending meetings of our board of directors, voting on board decisions and participating in fundraisers.
He joined Urban Upbound, non-profit organization in New York, whose mission is to provide residents of public housing neighborhoods, the tools and resources needed to achieve economic mobility and self sufficiency, and to break the cycle of poverty in January of 2014. In his current role as business account manager, he oversees a portfolio of employment strategies leading to the attainment of job placement, retention, and career advancement milestones.Prior to joining Urban Upbound, Sam served a real estate Associate from 2003 through 2013. He has developed an expertise in sales and operations in his business career. His previous experiences with Corporate America include working with 85 valet Services, Inc where he increased revenue by 50% by attracting corporate accounts, to a business model originally designed to cater to individuals; he worked asa Sales Manager with Showtime Pictures, an internationally renowned photography concession, and he collaborated with the management team to make the Empire State Building location the most profitable in the company. He worked with Axia Partners LLC, an investment advisory company where he engaged in research, business development and investor fundraising efforts. Sam's background as the son of an accomplished diplomat who served at several posts in Africa and Europe puts him in a very strong position to collaborate with professionals on a global initiative. He speaks fluent French and Spanish. His transition to the non-profit world is a natural consequence of the work that he has been involved with for over the past two decades.He brings his expertise in youth mentoring, education and a strong passion for social justice to the table. Sam holds a Bachelor's degree in Pharmacology He will volunteer his time as needed. He does not receive compensation for his services.

LEVONNE FARQUHARSON, AAS, B.A, MSEd., EdD (In View)

Education Director & Treasurer

Levonne is a Volunteer Director. With a Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education and a bachelor's degree in Social Work, she holds the position of Treasurer & Education Director for the organization. As the education director, her duties include:- direct and shape the curricula and teaching processes in our schools,run the educational programs at non-school settings, such as museums, businesses and non-profit organizations. She works with educational committees and advisory groups within the community to come up with the most appropriate curricula to meet the needs of their students. She will provide advice to teachers, school administrators and support staff, provide training in the use of educational materials and techniques. Advise educators on how to comply with local, state and national standards, as well as work closely with school boards to apply the board's rules and regulations. Research and select textbooks, as well as other educational materials and order or authorize the purchase of supplies. Be involved with the research and design of educational materials and instructional methods. Mentoring new teachers, teaching workshops or seminars and observing teachers in the classroom. Additionally, provide constructive feedback based on teacher evaluations. As the treasurer, she keeps up-to-date records as well as an audit trail for all transactions. She protects the organisation against fraud and theft, ensuring safe custody of money, and prompt banking. She will make sure the board understands its financial obligations. She makes sure the organization complies with tax regulations, such as GST, payroll tax and fringe benefits tax. She will review all internal processes and reporting methods at least annually.

She carries a range of key corporate, functional and other responsibilities to support the Chief Executive in:

•enabling GIFTED to fulfil the responsibilities set out in the Education Order;

• Fulfilling the responsibilities that the Chief Executive carries as Accounting Officer for GIFTED; and

• Contributing effectively to the general strategic and operational management of GIFTED.

She brings direction and leadership of the full spectrum of professional capability within GIFTED to support the development of education policy advice, as well as the safe and efficient delivery of curriculum change, assessment arrangements and examinations.

As the education thought leader within GIFTED, she will:
• Develop recommendations and options for the Chief Executive, GIFTED’s Council and government on curriculum, examination and assessment arrangements.

• Develop and implement GIFTED’s curriculum, assessment and qualifications strategies to enhance learning recognition and opportunities for all learners.

• Lead and evaluate improvement in curriculum, examinations and assessment arrangements, by using data, making objective decisions and promoting effective partnership working across all key stakeholders.

• Actively review all curriculum, examination and assessment services provided to ensure efficiency and effectiveness, choosing the best delivery model and most effective use of resource

• Develop and improve links with schools, colleges, training organizations, higher education institutes, other education providers and employers to ensure GIFTED’s work aligns to societal and economic needs.

• Develop policy and performance in line with best practice; advising schools, colleges, training organizations, higher education institutes, other education providers and employers on all aspects of curriculum, assessment and examinations.

• Work, as part of the Executive Team, to make strategic decisions in regards to the most efficient and effective use of the GIFTED’s resources.

She also acts as the Child care Specialist for the Organization She has worked in the field of Education in a variety of settings; both as a head teacher, a child care specialist, and a computer lab smart coordinator. She comes with over 10 years experience in working with kids and will be a great asset to the non-profit. She has an Associate degree in Therapeutic Recreation (A.A.S), and has a bachelor’s degree (B.A) in Social Work. She is also pursuing a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education. She also has a Credential as a Child Development Associate. (CDA)

Levonne has a keen interest in the development of the "whole person". As the treasurer, her duties which are spelled out in the By-laws, include depositing said funds in such bank or trust company, co-signing contracts, checks, notes, etc. and exhibiting her books and accounts when deemed necessary.

As the Educational Director, she will develop the schools educational curriculum, and also coordinate and provide adequate training for the academic staff. She will also work with educational communities and advisory groups within the community to come up with the most appropriate curricula to meet the needs of the students.She will mentor new teachers, teaching workshops or seminars and also observe teachers in the classroom, and provide constructive feedback based on teacher evaluations. She will volunteer her time weekly as needed (approximately 15 hours per week). She does not receive compensation for her services.

DANICA DRAGICEVIC - B.Sc. / M.A - Corporate & Public Communication

Director of Public Relations

Danica is a volunteer director. She holds a bachelor's degree in business administration and a Master's degree in Corporate and Public Communication. She is the Director of Public Relations for the Non-profit. Her duties include:- Responsible for managing the public relations department and the content it delivers, Ensures brand message is consistent, timely, and relevant. Direct public relations department within the company. Work with media outlets to publish timely company information, such as press releases, brochures, and other materials. Ensure communication strategy is consistent and reflects the organization’s strategic vision. Implement social media strategies. Grow online supporter base and traffic. Perform social media community management duties. Build and sustain online communities. Manage relationships with media outlets. Produce and publish mass communications with email blasts and marketing campaigns. Refine core messaging to ensure organizational consistency in all aspects of communication including development, organizing and education. Ensure consistent framing of messages. Publish videos and photography on company website and blogs. Document presence of companies at events, conferences, and speaking engagements. Advocate on behalf of the company brand with external stakeholders and the media across all communications channels and vehicles. Collaborate with marketing to develop the advertising, marketing and promotion plans. Edit and revise content as necessary. Attending the meeting of the Board of Directors and shall also vote on all decisions of the Nonprofit, and participate in fundraising for the organization.

CHRIS AGBI OBIO

Director of Logistics and Donations

Mr. Chris Obio (Rev.) is a volunteer director. He holds the position of Director of Logistics and Donations for the Non-profit. His duties include:- managing and overseeing every aspect of technology security measures throughout the organization, perform a variety of tasks, relying on his wide-ranging experience and judgment in planning and accomplishing our goals. Responsibilities include establishing, planning, and administering policies, goals and procedures; initiating and implementing disaster discovery programs; leading and directing the work of others; and taking care of budget and staffing matters. • Manage security programs and supervise security departments • Allocate resources correctly and efficiently • Implement and maintain security policies and procedures • Keep an eye on security vulnerabilities and threats • Develop strategies to handle security incidents • Be involved in security investigations and recommended courses of action • Prepare financial forecasts and budgets for security operations • Participate in deployment of security technologies and program enhancements • Ensure policies, procedures and protocols are being executed • Provide leadership, training and guidance to staff members • Implement education programs on user awareness and security compliance • Prepare technical reports for executive management • Connect organizational requirements with security goals. attending the meeting of the Board of Directors and shall also vote on all decisions of the Nonprofit, and participate in fundraising for the organization.

DR. IVA SRDANOVIC, PhD.

Director - Medical Team Member

Dr. Iva Srdanovic has a medical background. She holds a Ph.D in pharmaceutical sciences from Long Island University. She currently works in clinical research for cardiovascular disease. Dr. Srdanovic is a published author in the field of immunology, pharmaceutics and interventional cardiology. She started doing research in immunology at the Hospital for Special Surgery (New York City) and continued to pursue her interest in science as a graduate student at Long Island University in pharmaceutical sciences. She has taught at Long Island University and Marymount Manhattan College in pharmaceutics and chemistry. Highly accomplished in the academic field, she holds an IB diploma from an international private high school in New York City (The Dwight School) where she was Valedictorian. She also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Marymount Manhattan College in New York City (Summa cum Laude).

KELECHI KANU AGBUGBA

Public Relations and Liaison for Africa

Mr. Agbugba is the Public Relations Liaison for the African continent for the non profit. He is currently the Managing Director at Technologies Platform Business Resources Limited; an IT Software and Consulting Services Company with specialist focus on emerging technologies and services. He is also the Senior vice president [Africa National Cyber Initiatives], center for strategic cyberspace+security science [CSCSS] - a UK based non-profit organization. He is a dynamic business manager with impressive technology background. He has a very successful IT Management and Sales career spanning over fifteen years, ten of those years in senior enterprise Sales & Account Management. Also in the Financial services and telecommunications sectors of the Nigerian economy. He has shown verifiable profitability in the management of multimillion dollar projects in the financial services and telecommunications sectors of the Nigerian economy.

Ambassador CYNTHIA SHALOM

AFRICAN GIRLS EDUCATION GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR GIFTED

Cynthia Chioma Shalom, is a Nollywood (Nigerian) actress, model, dance instructor and voice over artist. She is the winner of the "NEXT MOVIE STAR AFRICA" for the 2015/2016 year. Born in 1988, Cynthia graduated from the University of Port Harcourt with a bachelors degree in Management, and has worked with well known Nollywood directors like Segun Arinze, Lancelot Imasuen, Chico Ejiro, Blessing Egbe, Ugezu J. Ugezu, David Uro, Abbey Osho, Ubong Bassey, One Soul, and others. She has been appointed by the management of the Non Profit as African Girls Education (AGE) Global Ambassador for GIFTED.

AVA ZELENETSKY

Attorney and Legal Counsel

Ava L. zelenetsky, Esq is the attorney and Legal Counsel for the Non-Profit. Ava has her own law practice in Westchester County, with a primary focus on representing accident victims, including automobile cases, construction (labor law) cases, slip/trip and fall, and premises liability. Ms. Zelenetsky handles cases in all New York venues, including the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, Westchester, Dutchess, Orange, and Putnam Counties. She gives each case her individual and personal attention to ensure the maximum results for her clients. Prior to opening her firm, Ms. Zelenetsky worked for various law firms primarily in the field of insurance defence for many years. This Invaluable experience has provided Ms. Zelenetsky with not only the legal experience upon which she built her practice and reputation as an attorney, but also with the insight into how defence firms and insurance companies evaluate and defend cases.