An expert in entrepreneurship, governance, and SME growth & internationalization

Félix Zogning is a Full Professor at the School of Management, Université de Sherbrooke. His research focuses on entrepreneurial support strategies, governance in public and private organizations, and their impact on performance. He also supports SME internationalization and has contributed to entrepreneurship programs and SME modernization to strengthen competitiveness. A member of the Ordre des administrateurs agréés du Québec, he is Chair of the Board of Mutual’IT and chairs the Council for Innovation and the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem.

A global trade strategist and Executive Director of the Cyber Nations Foundation

Myriam Francisque is an international lawyer turned global trade strategist with 20+ years of experience across three continents. She is known for bridging complex markets, business leaders, and innovation to drive global growth in both public and private sectors. Formerly National Lead for Inclusive Trade at Export Development Canada (EDC), she helped remove barriers and expand opportunities for diverse-led enterprises. Today, she is Executive Director of Cyber Nations Foundation, advancing equitable access to cybersecurity education and careers.

Foreign Service Officer and the Director of Pan-Africa Affairs at Global Affairs Canada

Lia Hiltz (B.A. Hons. English Literature, McGill University; M.A. in English Literature & Creative Writing, University of Windsor) is a career Foreign Service Officer and the Director of Global Affairs Canada's Pan-Africa Affairs division since 2025. Lia stood up Global Affairs Canada’s first unit devoted to engagement with expert community on geopolitics and geo-economics. She also served in Canada's missions in Washington, D.C., and Berlin, as well as embedded within the German Federal Foreign Ministry.

Founder of K2Z Accounting Associates, Chartered Accountant & community leader

Beatrice Ghettuba is a Kenyan-born chartered accountant, entrepreneur, and community leader based in Edmonton. She founded K2Z Accounting, supporting small businesses and mentoring newcomers, and has served as Chair of Edmonton’s Africa Centre, strengthening community connections and economic engagement. Known for her analytical approach and deep understanding of both Canadian and Kenyan ecosystems, Beatrice bridges business, mentoring, and community development to foster inclusive opportunities.

Co-Founder & President, Black Business Association of BC, Award-Winning Speaker & Impact Investor

Nerissa Allen is the Co-Founder and President of the Black Business Association of BC (BBABC) and a nationally recognized leader in market access, food compliance, and international trade development. With 20+ years of public service experience, including senior roles at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), she brings deep expertise in regulatory systems, cross-border trade, and business readiness. Through BBABC, she has led Canada–Africa trade missions and supports entrepreneurs expanding into global markets with confidence.

Environmental Scientist, ESG Leader & Founder of Ellie Bianca Beauty

Evelyne Nyairo, M.Sc., PhD (cand.), P.Biol., is an environmental scientist, strategic leader, and entrepreneur with 20+ years of experience supporting complex projects in Canada and internationally. Her work spans oil and gas, mining, infrastructure, and sustainable development across Canada, MENA, and Sub-Saharan Africa, with expertise in ESG, regulatory approvals, and environmental and social risk management. She is also the founder of Ellie Bianca, an award-winning Canadian natural skincare brand recognized for innovation.

Training & Development Specialist and Nationally Certified Career Development Professional

Natasha Daniel is a Project Manager and career development professional dedicated to community empowerment and social impact. A Certified Career Development Practitioner, she works as a consultant and nonprofit strategist supporting grant writing, program delivery, training, reporting, and strategic planning. Natasha has also served as a grant reviewer for the City of Edmonton and SBCCI and leads initiatives focused on diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism.

Public Service Professional, My Radio 580AM Contributor, and Founder of Welcome to Canada: What’s Next

Marie Agnès Messi is a public service professional with a multidisciplinary background and a Master’s degree in Chemistry from the University of Bonn, Germany. With experience across federal systems, she has a strong understanding of how public institutions, legislation, and policies function in practice. She is also a community advocate, founder and host of the YouTube channel Welcome to Canada: What’s Next, and a contributor to My Radio 580 AM, promoting inclusion and empowering newcomers, particularly young immigrant women.

Translator and Reviser with Alberta’s Ministry of Education and Childcare

Doris Ehoh is a translator, editor, and community interpreter, as well as a French language instructor. She currently works as a translator and reviser with Alberta’s Ministry of Education and Childcare. She holds a Master’s degree in Translation and a Bachelor’s degree in Education, and brings nearly 20 years of experience in translation, revision, interpretation, and teaching. Passionate about agriculture, education, sports, and music, Doris uses her linguistic expertise to support intercultural communication and community development.