London , Africa — Catalyst 2030, a global movement spearheaded by social entrepreneurs and innovators to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), is delighted to announce Pearl Uzokwe as the new Africa Forward Programme Director. This pivotal role places Uzokwe at the forefront of the Africa Forward Initiative, initially launched at the 2020 World Economic Forum in Davos.
Pioneering Change for Africa’s Future
The Africa Forward Initiative aims to galvanize the next generation of social entrepreneurs and innovators across Africa, striving for SDG achievement on the continent. The initiative was birthed by a collective effort from the African Chapters of Catalyst 2030, including major contributors such as the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship, Ashoka, Echoing Green, and the Skoll Foundation.
Comprehensive Approach to Sustainable Development
Under Uzokwe’s leadership, the program will intensify its focus on four fundamental pillars: shifting narratives, developing ecosystems, altering funding models, and creating job opportunities. Cross-cutting themes such as youth engagement, capacity building, gender equity, and climate change will be integral to advancing these pillars.
Uzokwe’s Vision for Transformation
Announcing her new role, Uzokwe expressed on LinkedIn, “Humbled and thrilled to announce I will be spearheading change and driving impact on an incredible opportunity as Africa Forward Programme Director at Catalyst 2030. I look forward to connecting to as many multi sectoral stakeholders as possible on our ambitious goals.”
A Legacy of Leadership and Impact
With over two decades of global leadership, board experience, and a solid track record in the Global North and South, Uzokwe has been instrumental in shaping transformative strategies and driving social impact initiatives. Her prior roles include Director at the Sahara Foundation and Director of Sustainability and Governance for Sahara Group. She is also actively involved with the Malala Fund as the Governance Committee Chair and holds an LLB in Law from the University of Bristol.
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Catalyst 2030 was established to accelerate the attainment of the SDGs through innovative social entrepreneurship. By fostering collaboration among social innovators and entrepreneurs around the world, Catalyst 2030 aims to create sustainable and scalable change in the global social sector.
