Our Team
Grace
Executive Director
Grace Isong Akpan is an experienced sexual health and rights advocate with a passion for expanding public knowledge and discourse on the intersections of LBQTI contextual issues. With a diverse background in Accounting Education, Business Administration, and data research, she has developed expertise in various capacities within the non-profit and technology sectors.
Grace currently serves as the Executive Director of the Initiative for Gender Equality and Sexual Reproductive Health (IGE-SRH), a youth-led organization committed to enhancing the lives of LBQTI individuals in Nigeria. Her six years of experience in non-profit management, program development, and grant research have equipped her with valuable skills in proposal writing, policy analysis, and program evaluation.
Throughout her career, Grace has had the privilege of consulting for local and international NGOs, developing programmatic strategies, and thought leadership content, and engaging in participatory grant-making for different constituencies, all of which have driven positive impacts in the communities she serves.
With her diverse skill set and unwavering dedication to advocating for empowerment, Human Rights, and social justice, Grace actively contributes to the advancement of the LGBTI movement and broader social
VICTORIA
Advocacy Officer
Victoria Augustine is a passionate, innovative and result driven individual, with an exceptional record and passion for continuous learning and pursuing professional development. With a strong commitment to advocacy and technology, she is deeply involved in championing the rights and wellbeing of LBQTI persons. Victoria's focus is primarily on combating homophobia, addressing gender-based violence, and promoting sexual and reproductive health rights globally, with a special emphasis on the challenges faced in Nigeria.
Her expertise in advocacy is marked by a thorough understanding of the necessary skills and knowledge, making her a valuable contributor to any advocacy team. Currently, she serves as an Advocacy Officer, where she applies her passion for positive social change in the lives of LBQTI persons.
Beyond professional venture, Victoria is engaged in the exploration of intersectionality, Feminism, and strongly upholds the Feminist Principle of 'No If's, No Buts, No Maybe's.' Her personal interests include travelling, wine tasting, and delving into the study of historical events.
paul
Finance and Governance Officer
Paul Godswill Chukwuemeka is an accountant, journalist, and communication
strategist and seasoned activist with great enthusiasm and passion. With over 6
years of experience in accounting, journalism, and activism.
Paul has contributed a lot to the struggle for the LGBTQI+ Community in Nigeria through
accountability, credibility, and checks and balances to the management of funds
in the movement in his organisation.
Paul has worked as an Administrative Officer, a finance assistant, and now a
Finance and Governance Officer He has also worked as an Advocacy Officer, Liaison,
and resource person for several panels. He has contributed more than 10 abstracts
both nationally and internationally to the LGBTQI+ movement in Nigeria, Africa,
and around the world.
His experience, diligence, accountability, and self-dedication are second to none.
He is passionate about his work and ensures due diligence in all aspects. Paul's role in the LGBTQI+ movement is commendable and worth
emulating.
Paul enjoys cooking, researching, sleeping, and being more of an indoor
person.
IBUCHIM
Comms. & External Relations Officer
Ibuchim Owhonda is a communications strategist with a zeal for visual design, content creation, and social justice. With a background in graphic design and social media management, their strengths lie in creativity, storytelling, and advocacy.
Their expertise includes crafting compelling newsletters for storytelling, generating impactful visual and audio content, and managing social media platforms effectively, which positions them as an asset to any communications team.
Beyond professional accomplishments, Ibuchim is deeply committed to feminist-related issues. As a non-binary individual, their dedication to intersectional feminism, inclusivity, and diversity fuels their desire to work with organisations that align with these values, hence their work for IGE-SRH.
When they're not working, you can catch them rewatching all seasons of Modern Family, reading, or sleeping.
Excel
Programs Officer
Excel Olayemi-Oludairo is a Feminist and Public Health professional working at the intersection of Gender and Health. She has over four years of experience in Project Management, Communications, Research, and Social Development.
She specializes in sexual, and reproductive health rights and justice, sexual gender-based violence response, health advocacy, minority rights, and gender justice. Her passion is evident in her relentless pursuit of creating safe and empowering environments for women and girls. Through her work, she aims to raise awareness and advocate for systemic changes that will contribute to a world where everyone, regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, or economic status, is free from violence and enjoys equal access to opportunities, particularly in healthcare and justice.
Currently contributing her skills and dedication at the Initiative for Gender Equality and Sexual Reproductive Health (IGE-SRH), Excel actively challenges and seeks to transform systemic inequalities that have historically marginalized women and other sexual-diverse individuals. Her vision is grounded in the belief that a world free from violence is achievable and equal opportunities should be accessible to all.
When Excel is not advocating for women’s rights and wrongs or affirming the beauty of black women, Excel enjoys reading, traveling, and watching TV shows.
IDORENYIN
Monitoring, Evaluations & Learning Officer
Idorenyin Ezekiel is a seasoned professional with a diverse background in the field of sexual and reproductive health among LGBTQI individuals. With a rich history of experience in various pivotal roles, Idorenyin's journey towards making a positive impact has been nothing short of remarkable.
Before taking on the role of Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Officer at the Initiative for Gender Equality and Sexual Reproductive Health (IGE-SRH), Idorenyin served in key positions in several organizations, with past experiences in various roles such as Counselor Tester, Gender Focal Person, and Care and support officer. They have worked in several organizations, including the Primary Health Center Uyo, the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), and the Initiative for Health and Rights Under Heartland Alliance Limited by Guarantee (HALG),
Now, as the MEL Officer with IGE-SRH, Idorenyin brings their extensive experience and background in computer science to the forefront. Their unique blend of expertise in counseling, community mobilization, gender integration, and psychosocial support equips them with a profound understanding of the needs and challenges faced by vulnerable populations. In their current role, Idorenyin is dedicated to developing and implementing robust MEL systems that enable IGE-SRH to effectively track progress, measure impact, and continuously learn from their programs.
Idorenyin’s unwavering passion lies in utilizing their expertise to support the LBQTI community. They firmly believe in the power of data-driven decision-making to advance IGE-SRH’s mission of promoting gender equality, sexual and reproductive health, and human rights for LBQTI individuals. Through meticulous monitoring, rigorous evaluation, and continuous learning, IGE-SRH can adapt and refine its programs to best serve the needs of those who have long faced discrimination and exclusion.
With a commitment to the LGBTQI community and a remarkable track record of over five years of experience in the Non-Profit sector, Idorenyin Ezekiel is an invaluable asset to the IGE-SRH team, working tirelessly to advance the organization's mission of enhancing the lives of LBQTI individuals and promoting gender equality and sexual reproductive health.
Preye
Compliance and Finance Assistant
Preye Ombu is committed to improving the lives of young queer women in Nigeria and promoting equality, empowerment, and sexual reproductive health among marginalised communities. With a thoughtful and soft-spoken nature, they are focused on finding innovative solutions and leveraging their financial expertise to drive positive social impact.
They prioritise effective communication and collaboration, ensuring the voices and needs of marginalised communities are acknowledged and met. Preye's ultimate goal is to create a more inclusive society where young queer women can flourish and thrive, irrespective of their age, gender or sexual orientation.
They are a passionate and dedicated Chartered Accountant, currently working as a Compliance and Finance Assistant for the Initiative for Gender Equality and Sexual Reproductive Health (IGE-SRH). Their hobbies include reading, music, trying new cuisines and learning new skills.
RUME
Advocacy Intern
Peace Oghenerume Mukoro, epitomizes resilience and dedication. Her fervent commitment lies in advocating for the rights and well-being of young LGBTQI individuals. With an unwavering passion ignited by personal experiences and a burning desire for equality, she champions inclusivity and empowerment. Peace tirelessly works towards dismantling barriers, fostering understanding, and creating safer spaces for marginalized communities. Her relentless pursuit of change embodies hope and inspires others to stand alongside her in the journey towards a more equitable and accepting society.
INIMA
HR & Operations Intern
Inima Reuben is a Music Producer, Singer/songwriter, and a dedicated Human Resources and Operations Intern with a passion for fostering positive workplace environments and supporting organizational growth.
With a proactive approach to learning, Inima actively seeks out opportunities to expand their knowledge and practical skills in various HR functions, including recruitment, employee relations, and training and development. Their exceptional communication skills and empathetic nature enables them to effectively engage with employees and contribute to creating a supportive and inclusive workplace culture.
Inima's commitment to excellence and their ability to adapt to new challenges makes them a valuable asset to any HR team. Through their internship experiences, they aim to gain hands-on experience, refine their skills, and make meaningful contributions to the organization's HR initiatives. Beyond their academic and professional pursuits, Inima is known for their collaborative spirit, integrity, and enthusiasm for helping others succeed.
Manuella
Comms. & External Relations Intern
Manuella Owukio is a resilient, enthusiastic, and result-driven individual. With a background in communications, she loves broadcasting, feature writing, editing, and properly articulated information sharing.With her knowledge, she is interested in improving the smooth flow of information in Nigeria.
Manuella works with the Initiative for Gender Equality and Sexual Reproductive Health (IGE-SRH) as a communications and external relations intern. Other than the things stated above, she enjoys reading, traveling and learning new skills
NYAKNO
Programs Intern
Nyakno Obot is a dynamic and passionate individual with a strong commitment to fostering meaningful connections and advocating for the LBQTI community. Her work profile reflects her diverse interests and dedication to creating a more inclusive and accepting world. As a staunch advocate for the LBQTI community, Nyakno tirelessly works to raise awareness, promote acceptance, and fight for equal rights. Her advocacy work extends to both online and offline.
Her ability to connect with others on a personal level and her genuine interest in their stories make her a cherished companion in any social setting platforms, as she seeks to educate, empower, and create safe spaces for LBQTI individuals.
Nyakno Obot is currently working as a program intern for Initiative for Gender Equality and Sexual Reproductive Health (IGE-SRH).
Her hobbies include movies, traveling and meeting people.
BLESSING
Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Intern
BLESSING
Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Intern
Blessing is an upcoming activist, idealist, and public health enthusiast. She has volunteered for various public health organisations and works as an intern for an LBQTI-based non-governmental organisation (Initiative for Gender Equality and Sexual Reproductive Health). Blessing is passionate about the advocacy, equality, and health of LGBT+ persons, especially LBQTI women in Nigeria and other countries. Her interests include cooking, research, and reading.
EKOM
Office Assistant
EKOM
Office Assistant
Ekomobong is an enthusiastic individual dedicated to lifelong learning and currently serves as an office assistant for IGE-SRH. She is deeply committed to positively impacting the LGBTQI community, promoting equality, advocating for sexual reproductive health, and fighting against gender-based violence. Her interests include reading, savoring delicious cuisine, exploring new destinations, indulging in restful sleep, and conducting research.
MERLYN
Comms. & External Relations Intern
MERLYN
Comms. & External Relations Intern
Rosemary is a resilient activist who has had the privilege of working with a dynamic team dedicated to improving the lives of LBQTI individuals in Nigeria.
She has volunteered for various non-government organisations and is keen on advancing the lives of LGBQT individuals in the country. Rosemary works with an LBQTI organisation, the Initiative for Gender Equality and Sexual Reproductive Health (IGE-SRH), as a communication and external relations intern. Her interests include music, travelling, research, and adventure.
Tori
Comms. & External Relations Intern
Victory (Tori) Igeyedini Wekulom is a feminist, avid reader, and creative writer, proofreader, and editor with a knack for writing beautiful stories. As a goal-oriented and result-driven person, Tori is currently interning in the Communications and External Relations department of the Initiative for Gender Equality and Sexual Reproductive Health (IGE-SRH). When Tori isn't working on causes that would fight for gender equality and sexual reproductive rights, they're writing a book, reading a book, or just having a swell time doing things that make them happy.She has volunteered for various non-government organisations and is keen on advancing the lives of LGBQT individuals in the country. Rosemary works with an LBQTI organisation, the Initiative for Gender Equality and Sexual Reproductive Health (IGE-SRH), as a communication and external relations intern. Her interests include music, travelling, research, and adventure.