A Journey Transformed: From Scholar to CEO
Professor Akhere Omonkhua, a distinguished biochemist, has dedicated her career to the intricate world of traditional medicine, studying the safety, efficacy, and molecular mechanisms of plants used to treat diseases like diabetes and malaria. But her journey is about more than just scientific discovery; it’s a heartfelt mission to build a brighter future for African research.
Her story with the Africa Research Excellence Fund (AREF) began not as a leader, but as a participant. In 2018, as the Project Coordinator at the University of Benin’s African Centre of Excellence in Reproductive Health Innovation (CERHI), she joined AREF’s Excell programme. It was a pivotal moment. The programme refined her grant-writing skills and empowered her to effectively manage research projects. What began as professional development blossomed into a deep, personal commitment to AREF’s mission.
The Power of Paying It Forward
Professor Omonkhua’s belief in AREF’s work was so profound that she didn’t just walk away after her programme ended. She continued to give back, first as a member of the College of Experts, where she reviewed applications with the same passion that once fueled her own. Later, she became a facilitator, guiding the next generation of researchers with the wisdom she had gained.
Her dedication was undeniable. It wasn’t just about a job; it was about a vision. Over seven years, she had poured a large proportion of her time into nurturing early and mid-career researchers, helping to strengthen research ecosystems across African universities.
A Legacy of Excellence and Empowerment
In late 2023, Professor Omonkhua’s journey came full circle when her long-standing commitment and experience led to her appointment as AREF’s Chief Executive Officer. As CEO, she now leads the very organization that helped transform her own career.
Her leadership is a beacon of hope, driving forward AREF’s mission to support and empower African scientists. To date, AREF has supported over 900 early-career health researchers from 42 African countries. These are not just numbers; they are lives changed and futures shaped. The researchers she and AREF have championed have gone on to win grants, become independent scientists, and, most importantly, are now training the next generation of African scientific leaders.
Professor Akhere Omonkhua’s journey is a powerful testament to the ripple effect of mentorship and support. She is not just a CEO; she is a catalyst for change, building a lasting legacy of research excellence and empowerment across the African continent.