Meet our YMAU V Ambassador Cohort

We cultivate diplomatic leaders. Our 2025 Ambassadors are past YMAU delegates who now champion our mission across the African continent—connecting prospective participants, guiding them through conference preparation, and inspiring a shared vision for Africa’s future. Reach out to one below and find out about their transformative YMAU experience.

the Ambassadors

  • I am a young medical resident, with great interest in public health and youth leadership. I have over 8 years of volunteerism with several local and international organizations including leading institutions such as the World Bank Group and Africa CDC, advocating for meaningful policy changes on increasing healthcare accessibility and equity, especially in rural and underserved communities across the continent. Beyond my clinical work where I strive to provide high-quality compassionate care, I engage in community activities, mentoring emerging change-makers to ensure the continuity of the exceptional services we provide. I aspire to expand my work by subsequently pursuing a career in public global organizations like the World Health Organizations, to impact more lives on broader stage.

    Contact: edieborisgoden@yahoo.co.uk

  • My name is Fabiola Bamen am a Cameroonian and a final year student at the University of Buea Cameroon, department of Journalism and Mass Communication faculty of Social and management sciences. I’m a marketing enthusiast with passion for youth engagement and community development.

    Contact: fabiolabamen7@gmail.com

  • I am in my third year. I am studying Electrical and Electronics Engineering and really take a serious interest in it. In the course of our two and a half semester vacations, I actively volunteer at various companies for engineers; I experience practical life. At the end of last semester break, I was blessed with the opportunity of working with the National Power company in Zimbabwe, where I gained the knowledge and experience on how Electricity is Transmitted and Distributed. Presently, I'm developing my skills at a gold mine in my home town of Chinhoyi, where I'm learning in the art of mining electrical systems, wiring different types of motors and fault tracing. Aside from studies, I enjoy arguing/debating with my colleagues, though I get anxious when its my time to talk. However, being a member of YMAU has helped me to overcome this fear. I also love getting to know individuals from different nations, their accent, their origin, the contrast between their daily life and that of ours and that motivation pushes me to keep wanting to learn and get to know more unique individuals. My journey is defined by a love of learning and a need to make a positive impact in the field of engineering, as I combine my technical studies with practical experience and personal growth.

    Contact: xtinashe12@gmail.com

  • Benjamin Ishimwe is a Rwandan graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics from the University of Rwanda. With a strong foundation in mathematics, Benjamin has developed practical expertise in data analysis, Python programming, SQL, and Power BI. His academic background is complemented by hands-on experience gained through internships at the University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK) and Prime Life Insurance Ltd, where he supported data management and claims Processing.

    Driven by an interest in the intersection of mathematics and technology, Benjamin aspires to become a Machine Learning Engineer, and plans to pursue a master’s program of related fields. His long-term goal is to apply machine learning to solve pressing societal problems, particularly in health, education, and economic development.

    Benjamin is known for his empathy, honesty, and integrity in all that he does. In his free time, he enjoys running, watching factual movies, reading Christian books and volunteering in his community.

    Contact: ishibenj73@gmail.com

  • Mohamed Muaz is a Sudanese high school student at UWC Changshu China, where he studies on a full scholarship in the final year of the International Baccalaureate program. He is passionate about the intersection of diplomacy and medicine, a vision shaped by personal experience. Born in Dubai and raised in Khartoum, Mohamed’s life changed dramatically after war erupted in Sudan in 2023. After six months of displacement, he continued his education in Cairo, Egypt.

    Mohamed’s journey to diplomacy began at YYAS-2024, where he met aspiring African changemakers. Soon after, he joined YMAU-IV in Nairobi as a delegate, an experience that transformed his worldview. Through powerful debates, policy drafting, and cultural exchange, Mohamed found a space to advocate for peace and imagine a united Africa. YMAU didn’t just shape his voice, it amplified it. Now, as a proud YMAU-V Ambassador, Mohamed works to mentor and support future delegates. He’s committed to making the Model African Union experience accessible and empowering to youth across the continent.

    He is also a leader in Gadeemteam, a Sudanese youth-led organization supporting displaced students, and co-founded UWC for Peace, a STEM program for refugee youth in Cairo, funded by the Go Make a Difference grant.

    Contact: mohamedmuazbashir@gmail.com

  • Sarabel Odero is a dedicated public policy researcher, Pan-African advocate, and social change activist committed to poverty alleviation, good governance, and women’s empowerment.

    Contact: Sarabelodero@gmail.com

  • I am Athok Michael Chol, a South Sudanese refugee born, raised, and living in Kenya. I am a second-year student at USIU-Africa, pursuing a degree in Software Engineering. I’m passionate about leadership, innovation, and using technology to drive community-centered impact.

    As someone shaped by displacement and resilience, I believe in building solutions that respond to the realities of underserved communities. Through initiatives like Technova Digital Hub, I’ve been involved in projects that use digital tools to promote access to information and amplify youth voices in informal settlements. I believe technology should serve people not just as a tool for convenience, but as a means to uplift communities, close gaps, and create lasting, inclusive impact.

    Outside of academics, I enjoy writing and watching films , I am an enthusiastic movie reviewer who’s drawn to stories that reflect culture, identity, and transformation. I think storytelling teaches us empathy, and that same empathy shapes how I think, build, and connect with others. These creative interests, along with my lived experiences, continue to shape the kind of leader and builder I strive to be.

    At my core, I’m a visionary thinker, a builder, and a lifelong learner, committed to leading with purpose.

    Contact: athokpriscilla@gmail.com

  • Pech Lim Gatluak is a dynamic refugee youth leader, social innovator, and peace advocate committed to transforming lives through education, digital empowerment, and community-led solutions. Born in South Sudan and raised in displacement, Pech channels his lived experiences into action, founding REACH (Refugee Employment Accelerator and Career Hub) to address unemployment and skill gaps among refugee youth. He is a recognized voice in youth development and peacebuilding, having volunteered with leading organizations such as ZOA, UNHCR, YACOT , Resilience,Water Mission,TPO and VSO International.

    Pech’s leadership is grounded in resilience and impact-driven innovation. He has designed and led transformative programs focused on digital skills, entrepreneurship, and mental health for marginalized communities, especially women and youth in refugee settlements. Passionate about inclusion and equity, Pech believes in a future where every young person — regardless of status — has the tools, confidence, and opportunity to lead change. His work continues to inspire a new generation of refugee youth to rise beyond adversity and reclaim their power.

    Contact: pechlim45@gmail.com

  • Peter Obinna Nnamchukwu is a purpose-driven Sales Funnel Specialist, Software Engineer, and Creative Designer passionate about youth development and digital innovation in Africa. He is the founder of Time With Teens, an initiative that mentors young people to become spiritually grounded and socially impactful leaders.

    With over 4 years of experience in digital design and marketing, Peter has trained 700+ aspiring graphic designers and built a thriving community of over 1,000 young entrepreneurs. He combines his technical skills and faith-based values to inspire youth to align with purpose and drive change.

    Currently serving as the Head of Social Transformation in the Student Representative Council at the African Leadership University (ALU), Peter leads campus-wide efforts focused on inclusion, mental health, student engagement, and leadership development. In recognition of his impact, he was awarded ALU’s 2024 End-of-Year Social Transformation Award—just one year after joining the university.

    Peter is also a certified emerging leader through programs like the GOTNI Leadership Centre and MOGI, and he continues to inspire young people across Africa through his teachings, initiatives, and leadership.

    Contact: p.nnamchukw@alustudent.com

  • Wadzanai Dewah is a 21-year-old Zimbabwean student, youth leader, gender equality advocate, and aspiring public health professional who is committed to creating healthier and more just communities across Africa. She is a purpose-driven young woman who is passionate about influencing a future where young people lead with empathy, purpose, and courage. Her work and journey as an advocate began with wanting to support girls in her community by giving them a safe space where their voices were welcomed, and their potential could be developed. The small deliberate actions she has taken to serve her community during her educational experience, including mentoring younger girls, leading school clubs, and developing outreach programs, have contributed to her belief that leadership is more about impact than a title. Today Wadzanai is the Secretary General of Girl Up University of Zimbabwe, coaches youth through Students Connect Trust, and Teen Street Zimbabwe, and advocates for menstrual health and gender equity. Attending the Yale Model African Union was a turning point for her - a space that affirmed her voice and deepened her belief in the power of youth-led transformation. Whether she’s leading menstrual health outreach, speaking to students about purpose, or sitting in strategic conversations, Wadzanai shows up with intention and heart. With a heart for community, a mind for policy, and a dream of transforming public health outcomes, Wadzanai steps into her role as YMAU Ambassador ready to inspire, connect, and grow with others across the continent.

    Contact: anaidewah@gmail.com

  • Nelly is a visionary lady who is passionate about working with people from diverse backgrounds. She aspires to become a diplomat and policymaker, using her voice to advocate for more inclusive policies across the globe. She is also passionate about assisting young people to step out of their comfort zones and explore their capabilities beyond conventional spaces. Her desire to devastate mediocrity drives her to seek platforms that enable her to challenge young people to step up and take their thrones.

    Contact: munjanjanelly2003@gmail.com

  • I'm Abigiya Getinet, a rising senior at Andinet International School in Ethiopia, and a proud Ambassador for Ethio-College Prep(ECP) and Yale Model United Nations. Having had the incredible opportunity to attend the conference, I left not just inspired but empowered. It opened my eyes to the strength of global conversations, diverse perspectives, and the kind of change young minds can spark when given the right platform.

    I'm a firm believer that a person without connection is like a computer without Wi-Fi, full of power but not fully unlocked. That’s why I value spaces like YMUN, where real dialogue leads to real growth. I joined this community not only to learn but to build bridges, and as an ambassador, I’m excited to keep that energy going and bring others into this experience.

    When I'm not immersed in world issues or dreaming up big ideas, I love baking, drawing, reading, knitting, and binge-watching shows that make me laugh or think. I'm passionate about becoming a designer, a software engineer, and a creative leader; someone who builds and designs not just things, but better futures.

    Contact: abigailgetinet2@gmail.com

  • My name is Alfred Kyeremeh Kwaku Dakwa, and I am deeply passionate about leadership and the role it plays in shaping Africa’s future. Growing up, I became aware of the challenges many young people face—especially the lack of guidance, opportunities, and representation. This inspired me to commit myself to a life of purpose-driven leadership, not just for my own development but to support and uplift others.

    I believe that leadership is more about service than status. It is about listening, learning, and helping others find their voice and potential. That’s why I’m dedicated to helping raise a new generation of young African leaders—leaders who are compassionate, visionary, and courageous enough to face our continent’s most pressing challenges. This is the vision that fuels what I do.

    Contact: kyeremehalfred498@gmail.com

  • Samuel Fodop is a passionate student doctor with a strong passion for building a healthier Africa through advocacy, leadership, and research. Currently pursuing his medical degree, he is deeply committed to using his skills to improve healthcare access and outcomes in his community.

    His interest in diplomacy was sparked during the fourth edition of the Yale Model African Union (YMAU IV), where he learned about the structure and function of the African Union and how young people can take part in shaping Africa’s future. Taking part in AU simulations broadened his perspective and helped him see diplomacy as another tool for driving meaningful change.

    Now serving as a YMAU V Ambassador, Samuel supports outreach efforts to engage more young leaders across Cameroon and the continent at large. His experience at YMAU IV truly inspired him to think beyond the challenges Cameroon faces and start thinking of ways to provide solutions. He is committed to making sure as many Cameroonians as possible are aware of such opportunities and to helping them gain the same kind of mind-blowing exposure.

    Contact: samuelfodop04@gmail.com

  • Benita is proudly Pan-African with East African roots. Having studied in Southern Africa, she has embraced the concept of 'Kamhlaba,' which means 'we are one.' She is the logistics executive of MOMEDS Africa, a youth-led medical NGO that aims to improve access to essential medical equipment for hospitals in Eastern and Southern Africa as well as Bangladesh. As an aspiring biomedical engineer, she believes that the connection between scientific research and policy development is essential for improving health care services across the African continent. The Yale Model African Union has proven to be the right platform to not only discuss but also empower youth involvement in policy changes and advocacy to enhance Africa's future.

    Contact: benibase@waterforduwc.net

  • Gerald Ishmael Moyo is a Zimbabwean youth advocate, peer educator and entrepreneur. His passion for diplomacy led him to serve as the inaugural Student Representative Council President at Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences. Gerald ensured student voices were heard in university governance. He successfully advocated for student inclusion in the University Senate and University Council, the primary decision-making bodies at the university, influencing key policies such as exam registration and payment plans for underprivileged students. He effectively gained faculty support, demonstrating his ability to negotiate and drive positive change.

    Gerald founded TerraNov-X, an agro-industrial park focused on sustainable agriculture, agritourism and youth empowerment. He turned a small-scale initiative raising livestock into a structured agribusiness with acquired land and a vision to create jobs and combat food poverty. He is currently integrating precision farming, blockchain traceability, and vocational training to transform agriculture into a viable career path for youths.

    As the co-founder and Head of Product Development at Tahris, he researches indigenous African botanicals for hypoallergenic, health-conscious self-care products. This venture allows him to tap into traditional knowledge and creates economic opportunities for local farmers through sustainable sourcing. Gerald is pursuing his Bachelor of Engineering in Chemical and Processing at MSUAS.

    Contact: geraldmoyoish@gmail.com

  • Ruth Tsanga is a Zimbabwean legal and public policy enthusiast passionate about international law, human rights, health equity, diplomacy, and African leadership. She is a proud alumna of YMAU III (Johannesburg, South Africa) and YMAU IV (Nairobi, Kenya), where she was awarded Outstanding Delegate under the Women, Gender and Youth Committee.

    She currently works at the intersection of law and public health where she uses legal tools to advance equity and social accountability in Zimbabwe. Ruth is also the founder of "Beyond Lawyered", a digital series where she unpacks law and health through a justice-focused lens.

    As a YMAU V Ambassador and aspiring diplomat under the Southern African Young Diplomats, Ruth believes diplomacy is essential to shaping the Africa we want. She is a firm believer in “Ni Sisi, Ni Sasa” — "the time is now". The time to awaken the AfroGiant is now!!!!! Africa has the vision, the voices, the brains, and the resources. It is time to own them, harness them, and lead unapologetically.

    She is committed to imagining boldly, challenging deeply, and building intentionally, for a just, united, and thriving Africa.

    Contact: tsangaruth14@gmail.com

  • Aika Shauri is a committed student advocate and youth development enthusiast from Tanzania. She currently serves as an official and organizing committee member of the Tanzania International Model United Nations (TIMUN), where she supports the planning and execution of one of the country’s most dynamic youth diplomacy platforms. Aika recently retired from her role as President of the Finance Association at the University of Dar es Salaam, where she led several initiatives focused on student empowerment, financial literacy, and youth leadership. Her participation in the Yale Model African Union (YMAU), particularly in the Economic Development, Trade, and Industry Committee, gave her deep exposure to continental policy discussions and strengthened her commitment to regional integration and youth-driven development. As a UNDP Student Ambassador, she continues to advocate for meaningful youth engagement in national and global development agendas.

    Contact: ikahshauri@gmail.com

  • I’m Paul Masamvu, a Zimbabwean Software Engineer based in Kigali, Rwanda. I’m currently pursuing a BSc in Software Engineering at African Leadership University, where I’ve built strong skills in Python, Visual Basic, and Linux, while diving deeper into machine learning.

    Beyond programming, I’m passionate about using technology and leadership to drive real-world change. I lead projects like scaling community-based health insurance with GiveLife Healthcare Initiative and mobilizing youth climate action through Friends of Nature. As CEO of Ecomas, I’m focused on developing eco-friendly tech solutions that tackle water scarcity and reduce carbon emissions across Africa.

    With experience spanning software development, digital marketing, diplomacy simulations, and research, I enjoy working at the crossroads of innovation, sustainability, and social impact.

    Contact: p.masamvu@alustudent.com

  • Hi, I’m Hikma Hamza. A curious mind with a love for debating, learning, and turning ideas into action. I’ve traveled from Rwanda to Kenya and back, soaking up every moment at YMAU IV where I realized that great conversations can change the world. When I’m not diving into committee discussions, you’ll find me exploring new cultures, cracking jokes, or challenging myself to think outside the box.

    I believe leadership isn’t about having all the answers but about asking the right questions and making sure everyone feels confident enough to ask theirs too. YMAU isn’t just a conference to me, it’s a space where ideas spark friendships, and where young Africans get loud, proud, and heard.

    As an ambassador, I want to bring that energy, make every delegate feel like they belong, and remind everyone that even the quietest voice can make the biggest impact.

    Contact: hamzahikma9@gmail.com

  • I am a final-year student in Environmental and IT Communications at the University of Goma, DRC. A committed climate activist and emerging leader in sustainability, I combine a passion for environmental education with innovative communicational approaches to environmental action. Originally from Goma, DRC, I am the founder and President of the GHID club and creator of the ECO ENVIRONMENT Channels. Also, I have mobilized students and communities around key issues such as climate change, waste management, and green innovation. I currently serve as Ambassador and Mediator at the University of Goma, where I play a strategic role in promoting dialogue and engagement on sustainable development.

    My leadership has led to impactful environmental campaigns, youth empowerment programs, and public awareness initiatives across Goma. My work has earned national and international recognition, including at the COP29 summit in Azerbaijan, where my voice contributed to global climate discussions. Known for my resilience, vision, and mentorship, I continue to inspire a new generation of environmental stewards, demonstrating that meaningful change begins with local action and a strong sense of purpose.

    Contact: manararogerisrael@gmail.com

  • Tanatsiwa Christabel Dube, a Zimbabwean writer, entrepreneur and advocate, is an African Leadership Academy Entry Class of 2022 alumna. She volunteered at SAYWHAT (Students And Youth Working on reproductive Health Action Team) as a Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights Defender, where she trained peer educators, concentised youth on comprehensive sexuality education and hosted youth-focused radio sessions on 98.4FM. Previously, she served as Zimbabwe’s Junior Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts, and Recreation (2020–2022), representing her constituency, organizing clean-up campaigns, and implementing youth programs. She published 'The Bride of Lucifer’s Son' in 2022, addressing domestic violence and child abuse. Tanatsiwa received accolades for her writing including First Prize Provincial Level in POTRAZ’s 2020 Letter Writing Competition. As ALAMAU 2024’s Co-Director of Press Corps, she authored a study guide on multi-perspective journalism and trained over 15 international delegates. Tanatsiwa also founded Tahris! —Transformation And Healing through Restorative Inclusive Self-Care—a startup that educates and creates natural, hypoallergenic self-care products to address respiratory, skin and wellness sensitivities; tackling how existing products are expensive and chemical-laden, harming people and the environment. Multilingual and globally-minded, she is pursuing International Relations at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University in Japan.

    Contact: tanatsiwacdube@gmail.com

  • Nfor Miriam Asohnyu is an YMAU IV delegate, who recently got her Masters in Mechatronics and Automotive Engineering from the National Higher Polytechnic School, under the University of Douala, Cameroon. Passionate about leveraging technology to solve real life problems, particularly in the field of Robotics and automation.

    As a student in Franco-Saxon academic environment, Miriam served as the President of the English Speaking Students Association, leading over 100 members and have organized several impactful programs such as boot camps focused on design thinking, leadership, entrepreneurship, and so on.

    To advance this goal, Miriam actively collaborates with organizations such as Open Dreams, Impact Axis, Tech Innovation Centre, and Unleash, contributing to initiatives that promote educational innovation and youth empowerment. She is deeply committed to creating inclusive learning environments and driving sustainable development through engineering and community engagement. Miriam thrives on building meaningful connections and learning from diverse perspectives—qualities that continue to shape her personal and professional growth.

    Contact: miriamasohnyu@gmail.com

  • I am pursuing a bachelor degree in International Relations, and a minor in environmental studies. I am passionate about states' governance, and regularly facilitate forums and debates that promote innovation, environmental sustainability, quality education and critical youth empowerment. I aim to influence inclusive, sustainable and pan-African policies across Africa.

    Contact: surwavubap@gmail.com

  • Adut Loi Akok is a Mastercard Foundation scholar at the University of Rwanda, pursuing bachelor’s degree in Food Science and Technology. He is the Founder of Dream-led Youth Fellowship, a social change youth movement for mental health and Education. An African UN-Youth Fellow and UNHCR Youth Champion, Adut is also an award winning South Sudanese contemporary poet and Author of two poetry books titled “ If only the city cries “ and the “ The beauty within us “ respectively.

    Contact: adutloi8@gmail.com

  • Tawanda Dzingayi is a visionary AI Engineer and Data Analyst at Baker Tilly Central Africa, fusing cutting-edge technology with a bold diplomatic spirit to shape Africa’s digital and policy frontiers. Hailing from Zimbabwe, he is celebrated for his rare blend of technical ingenuity, emotional intelligence, and global insight, hailed by Dr. Arthur Gwagwa of Utrecht University as “an ideal Gen Z every employer should be curious about.”

    A fierce advocate for tech diplomacy, Tawanda has represented the Republic of Congo and Egypt at the Yale Model African Union (YMAU), where his eloquence and intellect earned him Honourable and Outstanding Delegate awards. He leads as Dean of Diplomats for the Southern African Young Diplomats (SAYD) and serves as Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to the Diplomatic Envoy Model United Nations (DEMUN).

    Currently finalising a BSc in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Tawanda is the mind behind disruptive innovations, including an award-winning fintech-insuretech solution tackling Africa’s $12B microinsurance gap. Through his AI4A initiative under the UN Millennium Fellowship, he champions inclusive AI and ethical innovation.

    Beyond technology, Tawanda commands the stage as “Syntax,” a spoken word persona wielding poetry as a tool for advocacy and introspection. He is driven by one mission: to forge a just, digitally empowered, and sovereign Africa.

    Contact: tawanda.dzingayi@outlook.com

  • Shyaka Bruno is a senior at Kigali Christian School and an emerging leader dedicated to shaping Africa’s future. As a proud alumnus of the Yale Young African Scholars, Yale Young Global Scholars, and Yale Model African Union, he has continuously demonstrated a strong commitment to diplomacy, education, and youth empowerment. His engagement as an ambassador for these programs reflects his drive to create opportunities for fellow African students and to amplify youth voices in global conversations.

    With a growing interest in international relations, public health, and leadership, Shyaka aims to use platforms like YMAU to promote thoughtful dialogue and visionary policy-making among African youth. He is also a recipient of the YYAS Alumni Scholarship and continues to serve as a dedicated advocate for equitable education and pan-African collaboration.

    Contact: brunoshyaka42@gmail.com

  • My name is Patrick Mfitumukiza, a second-year student at the African Leadership University pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Entrepreneurial Leadership. I am passionate about business management and investment, with a vision of driving sustainable growth and economic transformation across Africa. I thrive on challenges, particularly solving complex problems through creativity, leadership, and innovation.

    Alongside my academic journey, I have built diverse professional experiences across education, operations, and community engagement. At African Leadership University, I serve as Housing Coordinator, managing student accommodation operations and ensuring effective communication between students, staff, and administration. Previously, I worked with StreetBridge Foundation as a civic entrepreneurship teacher, Imagine We Publishers as a teacher trainer and sales assistant, and volunteered with organizations such as Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, Bridge2Rwanda, and Idebate. These roles have strengthened my skills in communication, leadership, logistics, and mentorship.

    I aspire to become a business leader and investor dedicated to creating ventures that empower communities, expand opportunities, and nurture future African leaders

    Contact: mfitumukizapatrick32@gmail.com