Leadership
Amanda Agasaro Valois, MSc.
CEO & Founder
Amanda Agasaro Valois, MSc.
CEO & Founder
Esteemed Global Health Leader | Project Management Specialist | Advocate for Health Equity With a distinguished career spanning over 5 years, Amanda Valois is a globally recognized expert in promoting health equity and advancing maternal, child, and adolescent health. Holding a Master's in Global Healthcare Management from Coventry University, UK, Amanda has amassed a wealth of experience working with prestigious NGOs such as Jhpiego, CHAI, and Rinda Ubuzima, implementing projects funded by UN agencies, US agencies, and private foundations.
Prior to her postgraduate studies, Amanda Valois earned a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from Roanoke College, where she laid the foundation for her interdisciplinary approach to addressing global health challenges. Throughout her academic journey, she cultivated a deep understanding of cross-cultural dynamics and diplomatic relations, which she continues to leverage in her current role.
Throughout her career, Amanda Valois has demonstrated unparalleled expertise in project management, budget planning, and communication, consistently ensuring the successful development, implementation, and monitoring of projects aimed at improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations. She is renowned for her dedication to enhancing access to sexual reproductive health and rights (SRHR) services for adolescents, employing innovative approaches to address complex health challenges. She also dedicated her efforts to projects aimed at enhancing maternal, newborn, and child health. She played a vital role in supporting trainers to educate healthcare providers across various health facilities in Rwanda, thereby contributing significantly to the improvement of healthcare services for mothers, newborns, and children. Amanda Valois also harbors a deep passion for children's education and rights, recognizing their fundamental importance in shaping healthy and prosperous communities. She actively advocates for initiatives that prioritize children's access to quality education and safeguard their rights, believing that investing in their well-being is essential for achieving sustainable development and breaking the cycle of poverty.
She is deeply committed to her mission of achieving health equity for all and continues to be a driving force in shaping policies, leading initiatives, and advocating for transformative reforms in the field of global health. Amanda’s illustrious career and unwavering dedication to humanitarian efforts serve as a testament to her profound impact and enduring legacy in the global health community.
Emmanuel Manzi, RN, BSN
Vice President and Founder
Emmanuel Manzi, RN, BSN
Vice President and Founder
From Compassionate Care to Global Exploration: The Odyssey of Emmanuel Manzi Registered Nurse, BSN. Enter the world of nursing through the lens of Emmanuel dedicated and adventurous soul, has embarked on a remarkable journey as a travel nurse. With a passion for healthcare and a thirst for exploration, Emmanuel has seamlessly blended compassionate patient care with thrilling adventures across diverse landscapes.
Born in Uganda and raised in Rwanda, Emmanuel demonstrated a natural inclination towards helping others from a young age. Inspired by a volunteer opportunity at Greater Baltimore Medical Center in 2014 and fueled by a desire to make a difference, Emmanuel started school at University of Maryland Baltimore County and completed his nursing degree at Oklahoma City University.
After obtaining his nursing license, Emmanuel began his career in Washington State at St. Joseph Medical Center on neurology unit. Working in the fast-paced environment of the medical surgical unit and emergency department, he quickly earned a reputation for his exceptional clinical skills and compassionate bedside manner. He established himself as a dedicated and skilled healthcare professional, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and patients alike. Emmanuel worked with King County Public health as a public health nurse. King County is the most populous county in Washington State, the 13 th most populous in The United State. In this role, Emmanuel honed his skills in health promotion, disease prevention, and community education, laying the foundation for his impactful career.
Venturing into Travel Nursing: The Emergence of COVID-19: In early 2020 CDC confirmed the first case of COVID-19 in United State in King County, as the world grappled with the rapid spread of the novel coronavirus, Emmanuel found himself into the forefront of the pandemic. With hospitals around the country overwhelmed and communities in crisis, he knew his skills as a registered nurse were needed now more than ever. Driven by the shortage of nurses across the country and a desire to broaden his horizons and experience different healthcare settings, Emmanuel made the bold decision to become a travel nurse. Embracing the nomadic lifestyle, he embarked on his first assignment in California, San Jose, best known as Bay Area where he was exposed to new cultures, healthcare practices, and challenges. From long hours to shortages of personal protective equipment (PPE), he worked tirelessly to care for patients while ensuring his own safety and well-being with each assignment. Emmanuel not only provided exceptional care to patients but also immersed himself in the local communities, soaking in the richness of diverse cultures and landscapes. From bustling city hospitals to remote clinics in underserved areas across the country, he embraced every opportunity to learn and grow both personally and professionally.
Emmanuel dedication to excellence and unwavering compassion have left a lasting impact on patients, colleagues, and communities around The United States. He serves as an inspiration to aspiring nurses and adventurers alike, proving that one can make a difference while exploring the beauty of our planet. As Emmanuel continues his journey as a travel nurse, he looks forward to new adventures, challenges, and opportunities to touch lives and make meaningful connections across borders. With his heart full of compassion and his spirit hungry for discovery, Emmanuel remains committed to both the art of nursing and the joy of exploration.
Emmanuel, a compassionate caregiver, and intrepid explorer, embodies the essence of a modern-day nomad, weaving a tapestry of healing, adventure, and cultural exchange across continents. As he continues his remarkable journey, he leaves behind a trail of kindness and inspiration for others to follow.
Jeannette Umutoni
Founding Partner and Global Programs Director
Jeannette Umutoni
Founding Partner and Global Programs Director
Jeannette Umutoni seamlessly blends business management acumen with healthcare delivery expertise in the project management domain. Her journey is underscored by a commitment to excellence and innovation, cultivated through rich academic pursuits and extensive professional experiences. Currently advancing her graduate education and expertise at the Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University, Jeannette is specializing in Global Business with a focus on Data Science and Global Strategy, alongside a secondary concentration in Healthcare Delivery.
With over 10 years of industry experience and as a certified project manager, Jeannette's strategic leadership at Thunderbird has seen her hold pivotal roles such as Director of Finance for the Women in Business Club, and a Dean's Fellow. In these capacities, she has played a key role in implementing transformative initiatives like the 100 Million Learners Global Initiative Project. Leveraging her adept project management skills and strategic foresight, Jeannette is committed to driving meaningful change that transcends conventional boundaries.
Passionate about advocating for women in STEM fields, Jeannette integrates innovative business solutions across various projects, all with the overarching goal of uplifting families and communities. Beyond her professional endeavors, she actively supports and empowers individuals within the global community in America to pursue and achieve their dreams. Jeannette Umutoni's dedication to excellence, paired with her profound desire to effect positive change, positions her as a beacon of transformative leadership and inclusive growth. Having worked on projects around Africa mainly in the education sector, Jeannette brings firsthand experience and a deep understanding of the region's needs and challenges. Her commitment to improving education outcomes in Africa underscores her broader vision for empowering individuals and communities across the continent. Through her work, Jeannette strives to bridge gaps that exists in global communities empowering individuals to realize their full potential and contribute to the advancement of their societies.
Dr. Jennifer Batamuliza
Board Director
Dr. Jennifer Batamuliza
Board Director
Dr. Jennifer Batamuliza, Ph.D., is a multifaceted leader in the field of data science and technology, spearheading impactful initiatives at the intersection of education, empowerment, and innovation, with a particular focus on girls and women in science.
As the Head of Data Driven Incubation Hub and Short Professional Courses at the African Center of Excellence in Data Science, University of Rwanda, Dr. Jennifer oversees the development of dynamic incubation programs and professional courses designed to harness the power of data for societal transformation, with a special emphasis on fostering the participation of girls and women in science.
In addition to her role at the University of Rwanda, Dr. Jennifer serves as the Girls Empowerment Lead at the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, where she champions initiatives aimed at empowering young women through education and leadership development in science-related fields.
Furthermore, Dr. Jennifer plays a pivotal role as the Deputy Project Coordinator and Career Path Lead for the UR AFRETEC project, a collaborative endeavor between CMU-Africa and the Mastercard Foundation, which focuses on creating pathways for girls and women to pursue careers in technology and data science.
As a dedicated educator, Dr. Jennifer imparts her knowledge and expertise to both undergraduate and graduate students at the University of Rwanda, teaching a range of IT and data science courses, while actively encouraging the participation of girls and women in STEM fields.
Beyond academia, Dr. Jennifer is deeply engaged in promoting diversity and inclusion in STEM fields. She serves as the Vice President for the Rwandan Association for Women in Science and Engineering (RAWISE) and is the Founder and CEO of RWA TECH HUB, an organization dedicated to training and mentoring girls in ICT and encouraging their participation in science and engineering disciplines.
Dr. Jennifer's passion for technology and innovation is reflected in her extensive research portfolio, which encompasses areas such as big data analytics, machine learning, cyber security, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence, with a focus on addressing gender disparities in these fields.
Her commitment to excellence and dedication to empowering girls and women in science have not gone unnoticed. Dr. Jennifer has received numerous grants and awards for her outstanding contributions, including the prestigious Women Science Leadership Award 2022 by the National Council for Science and Technology (NCST).
Driven by a relentless passion for leveraging technology for positive social change and advancing the participation of girls and women in science, Dr. Jennifer Batamuliza continues to inspire and empower the next generation of data scientists, technologists, and leaders across Africa and beyond.
Lelio Marmora
Board Director
Lelio Marmora
Board Director
Lelio Marmora is an international development leader with more than 30 years of experience playing senior strategic roles working in implementing countries and at headquarters levels in a range of public and private international Organizations in more than 100 countries.
Lelio serves companies and international organizations around the world at the board and executive-committee levels. He is the CEO of The Management Lab, an advisory firm based in Geneva, Switzerland, specialized in large-scale investments, capital allocation, value creation, general management, strategic planning, and executive management for clients that include life sciences multinational companies, international organizations and Governments. He is also a board member at US’ Diagnostics global leader Orasure Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: OSUR), the London-based MTV Foundation, a founding member of the Think Tank Santé Mondiale 2030 in Paris, France, and a member of a number of expert advisory groups on international development, biotech/medtech and innovation issues.
Lelio served as the CEO of Unitaid in Geneva from 2014 to 2020, overseeing a USD 2 billion portfolio of investments in global health innovation. Prior to that, he worked 8 years at the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB and Malaria, first in charge of the Latin America and the Caribbean region, and then as Director for Africa and the Middle East. Earlier in his career, Lelio served in various capacities at a range of international organizations, including the World Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank and several United Nations agencies.
Lelio is the recipient of several national Orders and national/international awards. He was educated at Université Panthéon-Assas (Paris II) - Paris, France, holding master’s degrees in International and Administrative Law.
Tigistu Adamu Ashengo
Board Director
Tigistu Adamu Ashengo
Board Director
Tigistu “Tigi” Adamu Ashengo is a global health physician, educator and researcher with two decades of experience in public health, clinical care and strategic leadership in resource-limited settings. He has worked in more than a dozen countries on initiatives in health systems strengthening, safe surgery, voluntary medical male circumcision and prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV. Author and co-author of approximately 30 publications, he serves on the World Health Organization’s Technical Advisory Group on Use of Medical Devices and is a special adviser to Ethiopia’s Minister of Health for the national COVID-19 response. As Jhpiego’s Chief Medical Officer, he ensures that data and evidence are used to reach the most people, applying a learning mindset that constantly adapts to changing evidence. This respect for science is matched by a high level of compassion for the people behind the work: colleagues and collaborators, policymakers and health care workers, and especially the people accessing health care.
Yevheniia Shavlovska
Board Director
Yevheniia Shavlovska
Board Director
Yevheniia Shavlovska is a detail-oriented IT professional with a wealth of expertise in computer and software management, data entry, and database administration. Her adeptness extends beyond technical domains, encompassing problem-solving, time management, and a commitment to confidentiality. Alongside her IT prowess, she boasts six years of experience as a skilled photographer and video editor, particularly proficient in Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Premiere Pro.
Originally from Ukraine, Yevheniia is fluent in Ukrainian, English, and Polish, currently residing in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Her educational background includes graduating in 2018 with a degree in Information Technology from Ukraine.
Proficient across a spectrum of technical skills including Microsoft Office Suite, database management, and software integration, Yevheniia's professional journey has been marked by notable achievements. As Assistant Director at Streamline 22 in Poland, her leadership played a pivotal role in directing operations and streamlining processes. Additionally, her tenure at Iwacu Times involved meticulous database management, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of critical information.
In her freelance and personal projects, Yevheniia has showcased her creative talents as a photographer and video editor. Utilizing her expertise in Adobe Photoshop and Premiere Pro, she has consistently delivered high-quality work, collaborating closely with clients to meet and exceed project requirements.
Yevheniia's career is punctuated by her commitment to excellence, as evidenced by her recognition for efficient database management and operational streamlining. She continues to pursue her passion for IT and creative endeavors, driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a keen enthusiasm for learning.
Wil Ngwa
Board Director
Wil Ngwa
Board Director
Dr. Wil Ngwa is a distinguished figure in the field of global health and oncology, with a remarkable portfolio of achievements and contributions. As the Founding Director and Principal Investigator of the Global Health Catalyst at Harvard and Johns Hopkins, he has spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives aimed at addressing health disparities worldwide. Dr. Ngwa holds the esteemed position of ICTU Distinguished Professor of Public Health, along with roles as an Associate Professor of Radiation Oncology and Oncology at Johns Hopkins, and as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Massachusetts.
His leadership extends to numerous influential roles, including Chair of the Lancet Oncology Commission for Sub-Saharan Africa and a prominent figure in the U.S. Cancer Moonshot 2.0 Lancet Oncology Commission. Dr. Ngwa's expertise is recognized globally, with appointments as Professor of Global Health and Radiation Oncology at Rutgers University, Guest Professor at the University of Heidelberg in Germany, and Visiting Professor at the University of Pennsylvania. He is also the co-founder of the Global Oncology University and serves as the co-chair of the Africa-Oxford-Harvard-Hopkins Clinical Trials Network.
Dr. Ngwa's impact is further underscored by his extensive list of accolades, having received over 40 prestigious awards and honors from institutions such as Harvard, Johns Hopkins, the United States National Institutes of Health, international professional societies, and foundations. His dedication to advancing global health and innovation is evident through his authorship of four books on Global Oncology.
Educated at the University of Leipzig in Germany, MD Anderson Cancer Center, and Harvard Medical School, Dr. Ngwa brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his endeavors. Beyond his professional pursuits, he serves as an advisor to the USA government on Global Health. Dr. Ngwa's multifaceted interests also include a passion for soccer and a commitment to serving others, reflecting his holistic approach to making a difference in the world.