MEET THE TEAM

Rooted in the regions. Connected to the world.

Leadership in global philanthropy, impact investing and entrepreneurship.

Global President and CEO

Thelma Ekiyor-Solanke

Thirty years in global philanthropy and impact investing across Africa, the UK and the US. Recognised among the top ten women in the field, with awards for work in all three regions. Designs impact investment vehicles, raises capital for them and brokers the partnerships that make them work. Author of a 2026 book on women entrepreneurs in Africa's recovery, a chapter in the award-winning volume Peace vs. Justice in Africa, and women and peace training manuals. Doctoral researcher on women's collective entrepreneurship in Africa.

CHAIR

Chris Folayan

Founder of Luma AI. Serial entrepreneur, podcast host, and board advisor with more than 25 years of experience. Chris founded MallforAfrica, led the North American expansion of Interswitch Group, and founded OCFX Inc. He serves on boards spanning fintech, logistics, ESG, and diaspora networks.

Advisers

Stephanie Chen

Colletta (JP Morgan)

Dr. Elise

Sid

Gloria

Our collaboration

Built with Silicon Valley Advantage.

Silicon Valley Advantage (SVA) is a female-founded accelerator and innovation hub with more than ten years of results: over 80 startups graduated and more than $1.4 billion in equity value built. SVA brings founders, engineers, investors and corporate partners from the world's densest innovation community. Luma Circle brings trust and reach in underserved communities, and represents SVA across Africa and the Caribbean under a joint platform, Luma Circle.

Two communities. One mission. Solve what the world overlooks.