Delegates

Reza Babakhani
I have been living in the UK since 2018 with a refugee status, and my journey has been defined by resilience and determination. I completed my A-levels at worthing college where i acquired a strong foundation in Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics. This academic achievement lead me to London, where i began studying Biomedical Science at London Metropolitan University. Throughout my foundation year, i not only excelled academically but also participated voluntarily on an MSc Microbiology project in corporation with BBC Persia, further boosting my skills and confidence. Recognised for my ability to overcome challenges i secured an unconditional offer from the University of Sussex for Biomedical Science BSc degree, a turning point that reflects both my academic and personal growth. I have a deep deep passion for personalised medication and a clear vision for the future of health care, which motivates my commitment to innovative research and improved patient care. Beyond my academic and professional pursuits, i take care of my physics by keeping a healthy life style. I stay active by going to the gym, cycling, and hiking. I enjoy practicing violin in my free times. I cook at least one meal a day from scratch and avoid processed food as much as possible.

Callum Kouzibri
A programme like this would help me overcome the constant feeling of not belonging. I experience imposter syndrome a lot, whether it's feeling like I'm not as capable or confident as others, or being visibly Muslim in spaces where I rarely see anyone who looks like me.
In tech especially, it’s hard to find people from ethnic or religious minority backgrounds. That lack of representation can make it easy to question myself, even when I know how hard I’ve worked to be here. I didn’t grow up with access to professional networks or people who could guide me. Most of what I’ve achieved so far has come from figuring things out on my own or through programmes like upReach, SEO London, and IHSAAN by FOSIS. Even with that support, I sometimes still feel like I’m trying to catch up.
What I really need now is exposure. I want to learn directly from people in industry, build genuine confidence, and grow into the kind of leader I know I can be.
Aleto would give me that access. More than that, it would help me show up fully as myself, without feeling like I have to shrink or hide parts of who I am to succeed.
Sarah Mohamed Sheham
I am a dedicated and analytical first-year university student with a strong passion for politics, international affairs, and sustainability. My interests lie in political analysis, decolonial perspectives, and strategic planning, particularly in the context of international NGOs and media. Academically, I have developed strong research and writing skills, demonstrated through my political column in the university newsletter and my engagement with research methodologies. Professionally, I have gained experience as a tutor, sales assistant, and student ambassador, where I deliver workshops for students from low-income backgrounds. Additionally, I have worked on political campaigns, including fundraising for a Green Party candidate during the general election. Beyond academia and work, I enjoy debating, which I developed through a team competition at King’s College London. With a strong ability to analyse, communicate, and strategise, I am eager to contribute my skills and insights to roles that align with my passions for political discourse, international development, and media.

Moyege Oke
I am a first-year BSc Actuarial Science student at City, University of London with a passion for data, mathematics, and using numbers to solve real-world problems. Outside academics, I’m committed to helping people and hope to use my actuarial skills and personal experiences not only professionally but also give back to the community. This August I will be travelling to Ethiopia with my university to help disadvantaged kids who have suffered with HIV/AIDs. Growing up in a low-income household I quickly realised that I would have to work really hard to achieve something in life. Despite limited resources, I remained focused and achieved high academic performance, including top GCSEs and A-level results. In 2024 I self taught myself Alevel Maths in 8 months whilst working a full time job and have been awarded a fully funded scholarship by my current university. I’m passionate about making the financial sector more inclusive, and I am eager to grow into a leader who embodies both excellence and empathy, and I see this programme as a powerful step toward that goal.

Zahira Khan
I am a committed and ambitious individual who is in my final year of study at Nottingham Trent University pursuing a 2.1 degree in Business Management and Marketing. I excelled in several classes, including International Business and Globalisation and Developing Professional Impact, showcasing my great research skills. Professionally, I have obtained valuable expertise in a variety of roles. As a Market Research Telephone Interviewer for Ipsos, I oversaw projects and managed a team of 30 experts, demonstrating my leadership and communication abilities. My work as a Business Development Manager at ScaleGrid entailed customer outreach and strategy, which honed my abilities to manage customer relationships and generate new acquisitions. In addition to this, I have experience with customer service and telesales, having worked as a Telesales executive at Trade Mastermind and a Customer Service Advisor at Teleperformance. My accomplishments transcend beyond academics and professional experience. I was chosen to compete in the Athletics National Finals in 2016 and the Essex Championship Competition in 2018, demonstrating my dedication and competitive spirit. I also took part in the Black Leadership Programme and contributed to Bright Network's internship experience by starting a project to establish an ecologically friendly website for Quality Street. In my spare time, I enjoy athletics, 5k runs, going to the gym, football, and rollerskating, which represent my love of sports and fitness. I am also interested in creative initiatives and problem solving, and I am working to improve my IT and Microsoft Office skills in order to develop new solutions.
Abiodun Abidoye
I started a business called Youth Consults which provides equality, diversity and inclusion consultancy for a range of different organisations. We additionally provide a careers sign-positing program for young people. We have been able to work with a plethora of different organisations such as police crime commissioners, educational trusts and arts organisations etc. Alongside this I am a student reading law at the University of Leicester and am an aspiring solicitor. I am a volunteer for several different organisations such as volunteering matters and the #iwill movement with my Youth Social Action being focused on EDI and social mobility. Through this I have delivered workshops and presentations as well as been able to make impact solution based change within my local area. I have participated in a few conferences with a focus on diversity and equity and tried to find solutions and projects that may benefit the local community. I have regularly spoken at panels and conferences additionally in Parliament. I am additionally a Youth Advisory Board member for Career Ready which is a social mobility charity that provides mentoring and internships for young people. I have been privileged to receive 2 regional awards for my contributions to volunteering in my local area. Personally, I am really interested in developing a platform that is safe for young people to access and use especially to access careers knowledge as there is lots of misinformation out there about progression and opportunities.

Alvin Gashaija
Alvin Gashaija is a cyber security student at Middlesex University with a passion for leadership, digital engagement and community impact. As a Digital Ambassador, he promoted the university's values which include participating in a promotional advert to enhance the student image and attract prospective students. Outside academics, Alvin served as a Sports Captain for MDX Karate club collaborating within the sports department to inspire students and promote martial arts. A personal highlight was representing MDX as a competitor at the University of Hull. Outside of University, Alvin is deeply committed to empowering young people. He's recently appointed Early Careers Lead at the British Computing Society, leading initiatives to help 16-24 year olds access the IT sector, with funding available to support their journey. Additionally, serving as a volunteering with the Institute of Directors, supporting to facilitate events with the aim to support representation from BAME backgrounds in boards. Previously, he was a Mentor and Ambassador for Motivez CIC, where he worked on climate change initiatives in schools earning recognition as a top-ranked mentor with multiple wins. Alvin's influence extends to professional spaces, with a growing network on LinkedIn which led to opportunities with the Ministry of Justice, Black Hat Europe, Airbus and more. He's passionate about cyber, digital forensics and defence intelligence aspiring to make an impact in those fields post-graduation.

Joseph Olugbade
I’m interning at AXA Investment Managers as a Portfolio and Performance Analysis Intern in the Equity Performance team. Throughout my early career, I’ve gained exposure through insight programmes in sectors such as Insurance, Investment Banking, Asset Management and Private Equity, at companies such as Bain Capital, Blackstone, Hiscox, and Lazard. My most recent achievement was in November. As an Equity Research Analyst at BLK Capital Management, a student-led hedge fund, I participated in the Bi-annual Conference Stock Pitch Competition held at UBS in New York. In a group of 3 people, my team and I pitched a UK tech stock to an audience of more than 70 people, which included portfolio managers and traders who acted as our judges. This achievement was great because it was my first time speaking in front of a large audience. Although I did feel nervous at first, I enjoyed overcoming my nerves and delivering a great pitch with my team. I like spending time with my family and friends, going to the gym, running, and watching movies. I like running and going to the gym because it allows me to feel a sense of accomplishment, and it’s something that I can do where I can actively track my progress. It’s very important to me that I ensure that I’m always learning and developing. Which is exactly why I’m applying to this programme. I’m excited to develop the key skills such as networking and public speaking, which will support my growth as a future leader.

Muhammad Affan Shaikh
I’m Muhammad Affan Shaikh, a 20-year-old student currently studying Information Technology with Business Information Systems at Middlesex University. My academic background includes a T Level in Digital Production, Design and Development, as well as an HNC and HND in Business Studies. I have a strong passion for technology, data analysis, and solving real-world business problems through digital innovation. Professionally, I’ve taken on a range of roles—from teaching assistant positions and mentoring to customer service, kitchen management, and stock control. I’m currently working at The Salad Project, where I’ve progressed from a BOH Team Member to Kitchen Manager, gaining leadership experience and an understanding of operational efficiency. In my free time, I enjoy working out, walking, playing football, and hiking. I also freelance with a web development start-up called XWebDev. These experiences have helped shape my adaptability, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
Deborah Fasola
I am co-chair of the #iWill movement, trustee for numerous charities(Young Roots, Manchester City of Sanctuary, Euro Youth Mental Health and Intergenerational England) and a secondary school governor - combined with shaping numerous national campaigns such as ‘Give an X’ and the ‘Big Help Out’. I bring my lived experience of being an asylum seeker and a young person; combined with my spirit for advocacy and campaigning to these spaces to help shape the direction of society to be more inclusive by breaking stigma. I have advocated for those in marginalised demographics through local and national press such as Manchester Evening News, Pollination Radio and the BBC. I have a passion for running - running London marathon last year as a beneficiary of the Running Charity through my struggles with depression - and more recently Edinburgh Marathon to fundraise for Safe Passage International; a charity with its core values aligning deeply with mine. I have a dream to make a difference, to understand the intertwined nature if our world to champion the unheard voices of today; to give them a platform tomorrow!
Anita Ebitonmo
I have a deep interest in media and content creation, something that’s been a part of me for as long as I can remember. Filming my life feels like creating a documentary for my future self, and sharing my perspective with others inspired me to start my YouTube channel. Over the years, I’ve nurtured and grown that channel into a community that I now consider family. Beyond media, I’m also passionate about sustainability and building a better future. This interest led me to pursue a degree in Renewable Energy Engineering, where I’m learning how to merge innovation with environmental responsibility. Currently, I’m interning with Energy Gardens, and the experience has been incredibly fulfilling. From learning about biodiversity and community gardening to hands on work constructing solar panels, I’ve gained a holistic view of sustainability in action. My passions may seem different on the surface, but they’re united by a common goal that is impact. Whether it’s inspiring someone through a video or helping power a community through clean energy, I’m driven by the desire to contribute meaningfully to the world around me.

Aker Okoye
I’m a creative and ambitious student at the University of Cambridge with a deep commitment to storytelling, innovation, and social leadership. My work spans across tech, the arts, and entrepreneurship—united by a mission to inspire and empower. As an award-winning songwriter, I won the Hook, Line & Lyric competition (accredited by SONY Music UK) in collaboration with the University of Cambridge and Anglia Ruskin University. I serve as a content strategist at RNBRIT, a global entertainment platform championing British R&B. I lead on marketing, branding, partnerships, and cross-platform strategy—helping the platform connect thousands of fans with artists since its 2017 launch, while contributing to the genre’s sustainable growth. In the performing arts, I starred in Fences—the re-staging of Cambridge’s first Black theatre production—and will perform as lead actor at the 2025 Edinburgh Fringe Festival. I served as Artistic Director for the 10th anniversary of Cambridge’s largest student-run charity fashion show and have hosted internationally at Paris Fashion Week, Fête de la Musique, and this year’s Cambridge Africa Business Network and Africa Together conferences at the Judge Business School. I co-founded Black Men Belonging, Cambridge’s first society and social space for Black male students. I also won an ed-tech hackathon with The Technology Partnership and am developing an AI-powered platform focused on student mental health and education. Through the Aleto Foundation, I aim to refine my leadership, connect with changemakers, and continue building a future where creativity and technology uplift millions.

Genuis Mapalo Mukuka
I'm a Zambian-born changemaker passionate about social impact. In 2023 I graduated from University of Birmingham with a 2:1 in Economics, where I balanced academics with causes that mattered. This ranged from youth representative at The Mix Charity UK to being a Student Advisory Board member and mentoring over 1,000 students as a Student Mentor. As an Actuarial Associate at Milliman UK (present), I blend actuarial expertise with my passion for people. I volunteer in the employee engagement team, representing over 120 employees and contribute to initiatives that enhance workplace satisfaction. Beyond the 9–5, I lead youth-focused initiatives across Zambia (remotely). As Operations Officer for Educating Girls and Young Women for Development (EGYD), I helped launch the Youth Networking Platform, now reaching over 1,800 youth with life-changing opportunities. From hosting professional development events for 200+ Zambians to graduating 52 youths via our mentorship program, securing funding for a girls’ education, launching a high-school initiative and expanding our work internationally via an in-person event in the UK, I’ve seen how youth-led initiatives can change lives. I am pleased that my efforts to improve the welfare of my fellow youths were recognised during my time as senior youth ambassador for Next-generation Innovators (US) through my “Ambassador for Positive Change award.” Finally, I am interested in public speaking. I have been privileged to speak at the UN Youth Association of Zambia, Global Leadership Summit and Worlds Speaks forum, encouraging fellow leaders to embrace servant leadership. Being part of the summer program will further enrich my journey and make me a well-rounded leader to better serve my community.

Sean Mutiso
I am a Law graduate with a focus on Human Rights, Criminal Law and Prisoners Rights. Since graduating, I’ve shaped my career around crafting a comprehensive understanding of human rights law and the role I can play to shape it, gaining understanding from a grassroots and institutional perspective. I strongly believe that “you are a product today of the books you read five years ago.” In 2020, I was immersed in the works of thinkers like Augustine, Plato, Angela Davis, Napoleon Hill and Frantz Fanon. Their ideas on collective responsibility continue to shape my worldview and career, that we are all responsible for the direction in which society grows regardless of our class or background and must all play an active role in how we want society to grow and for me, this has been through the legal and regulatory system. I’ve had the unique opportunity to intern at The Intervene Project and AMICUS ALJ, organisations advocating for prisoners’ rights in the UK and the US respectively. Currently, I work as a Case Officer at the Nursing and Midwifery Council, where I investigate whether nurses and midwives should remain registered following a referral due to some form of malpractice, through this role I can advocate for individuals within complex institutional frameworks. Outside work, I embrace a polymath mindset. Physically, through the art of breakdancing, cerebrally through the study of philosophy and theology and creatively through my Substack @Carlsefni1 discussing an array of topics such as mental health and religion.

Oghale Ebebeinwe
I’m Oghale Ebebeinwe, an engineer passionate about harnessing control systems, automation, and technology to solve real-world problems. Currently, I’m pursuing a Master’s in Advanced Control and Systems Engineering at the University of Manchester, supported by the PTDF scholarship. My academic journey began at Covenant University, where I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, graduating as the best female engineering student in my class. Professionally, I have over a year of hands-on experience in industrial automation with Schneider Electric, working on both onshore and offshore projects involving PLCs, SCADA, DCS, and virtualization systems. Beyond my technical expertise, I enjoy creative pursuits like videography and storytelling, which have led me to establish a small media business that combines technology with creativity. I’ve also shared my insights as a speaker at the Technical Crew Conference at Covenant University and presented at a technical webinar in industrial automation. Throughout my journey, I have been driven by a commitment to personal development and continuous growth. This has led me to take on roles that challenge me, such as co-organizing a career development event featuring senior leaders. My achievements include early client recognition and contributing to a team that secured second place in a design competition. As I continue to grow, I aspire to a strategic leadership role where I can design impactful solutions and inspire others. Guided by values of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning, I aim to make a lasting impact in my field and beyond.

Dayebga Yanou
I'm Felix Licuco, an aspiring financial analyst currently pursuing an MSc in International Management at Imperial College London, specializing in finance and MBA electives. Before this, I earned my BSc in Financial and Business Economics with First Class Honours from Royal Holloway, University of London, where I excelled in modules like Econometrics and Game Theory. Professionally, I have a keen interest in the intersection of finance and technology, having gained valuable experience as a part-time Research Analyst at Welbush DMCC in Dubai, where I managed a significant equity and fixed-income portfolio and developed quantitative investment models. I also held an associate position at VBC Corporation in Mozambique, enhancing operational efficiencies and financial strategies in sectors ranging from construction to IT. Outside the office, I am committed to giving back to the community, which led me to establish the Licuco Foundation. Through the foundation, I've managed to construct water wells in Mozambique, providing essential resources to underserved communities. This initiative is among my proudest achievements, demonstrating my dedication to social responsibility alongside my professional endeavors. My hobbies include playing football, where I've taken on the role of team captain at various educational institutions. I also enjoy engaging in societies related to my interests in art, computing, and economics, which allows me to blend my analytical skills with my creative passions. I'm eager to leverage my analytical acumen and diverse experiences to drive successful outcomes in dynamic, challenging environments in the finance sector

Myron Sotunde-Adesina
I'm interested in a wide range of things. I am interested in politics, infrastructure and sport. I quite enjoy public speaking and speak at schools to inspire the younger generation. Currently I am completing a 12 month industrial placement in civil engineering and prior to that I did a 3 month internship at tier 1 civil engineering firm.

Zackhariah Olubuyide-Sivalingham
I am a 21-year old undergraduate student studying Chemistry at the University of Manchester. Passionate about social mobility, I am driven by a desire to create a real positive impact for disadvantaged global populations through science and technology. Outside of my studies, I enjoy working out, cooking and reading, one of my personal goals for 2025 was to read 30 books, so far I've read 8 so I still have many to get through. Reading has helped me in developing my vocabulary, strengthening my communication skills and helped me to break free from doomscrolling. In terms of my recent personal achievements, I recently received a first class in my semester 1 examinations, this was especially meaningful to me as I've struggled with maintaining focus and attention throughout my entire life and am currently undergoing the process for an ADHD diagnosis, so it was extremely gratifying to see how much I can excel when I apply myself. I am also currently learning python which I am excited to utilise in real world scenarios. I look forward to joining the community at the Aleto foundation as I believe in the power of mentorship know that I can apply the unique opportunities and support offered to me through this program to the fullest extent.

Fahmida Nidhi
I am interested in the consulting sector, I have always had a drive for impact and thus have tried to be a part of initiatives that allow me to create positive change. I am currently a Politics and IR undergraduate. My interest in local politics and power dynamics between nations and organizations led me to pick this degree. I work as a part-time GP admin receptionist. I am a full-time board member for Elevate and work as a commissioner for the London borough of Newham. I am an admin officer for Queen Mary Bangladesh society. I also work as Zero gravity and Young professionals campus ambassador, which allows me to help other students upskill and grow in their career. I am now currently working on my internship as a Business Consultant and aiming to excel in the consulting industry. Outside of academics, I love to play games, watch movies, read books, go ice-skating, play badminton or try out new things.
Rebekah Akinwotu
My name is Rebekah Akinwotu, and I’m 23-years-old from South London (what seems to be a point of patriotism for most of us). I’m currently building my career in digital marketing. My interests draw from my identity as a British-Nigerian, especially my love for Nigerian and Black music and its power to connect people across cultures. I also have a strong passion for languages, which led me to take up French lessons after university with the goal of becoming fluent and expanding my ability to connect with people. Beyond my love for culture, language, and music, I enjoy taking pictures, reading, and writing, particularly African literature - Ayobami Adebayo, Chimamanda Adichie, and Christian theology. One of my proudest achievements thus far has been organising a Google-sponsored event during my apprenticeship, where over 50 young Black women gathered at Google HQ to hear from a panel of inspiring Black female industry leaders. The event focused on career navigation in corporate and creative spaces, and I was able to connect mentors at Google to several attendees afterwards, reinforcing the event’s core mission of empowerment and support. This is now an initiative I’m exploring how to expand.

Emeka Izunwa
I currently serve as an usher in my church, where I help set up service, move equipment, interact with congregation members and guide them to their seats. I’m also a member of my university's chess club. I haven't yet won by checkmate but I enjoy what the game teaches me. Recently, I had the amazing opportunity to attend the Royal Television Society Networking Day at Dock10 Studios in Media City, Salford. I connected with professionals across film and television and took part in a workshop with crew members who work on Waterloo Road. It gave me a real insight into the industry and confirmed that this is where I would like to work in future. My previous job roles include working in customer service, admin and pharmacy, all of which helped me build strong communication skills, a professional mindset and confidence in different work environments.

Nathaniel Campbell
I’m a content-creation specialist with a BA in Digital Marketing from the University of Westminster, where I honed a data-driven mindset and a flair for storytelling. Professionally, I craft multi-platform narratives that spark conversation and build brand communities. Beyond the metrics, I’m most proud of the years I’ve spent in philanthropy, helping people experiencing homelessness regain stability through mentoring, skills workshops, and fund-raising campaigns. Those hands-on experiences keep me grounded and fuel my passion for social change—the same passion that guides my creative work. When the laptops close, you’ll find me strategising over a game of Magic: The Gathering, sharpening tactical thinking at the chessboard, or testing new board games with friends (socialising is my favourite R&D). These hobbies feed my curiosity, teach patience, and remind me that every challenge—whether on a game table or in a content calendar—has a winning move.

Princess Quaye
I've consistently been averaging between a 2:1 and a first in all of my university assignments- my professors have commended me for my ability to come up with new ideas/perspectives, research skills as well as my ability to draw in the reader. Aside from my journalism, I currently tutor GCSE students across North London as part of a Widening Participation Scheme at my University. I have enjoyed helping the younger generation, and advising them on future choices such as thoughts about A-Levels, College, Uni etc. I also work an agency job as a cashier at concerts and sports events. I have an interest in reading, travelling and playing musical instruments (currently bass guitar, and acoustic/electric guitar). I also support Chelsea Football Club at Club level football (Ghana and England at international and national level football).

Tadiwa Munyarari
I’m the Deputy Director at Rich Young Minds, partnering with our CEO to secure sponsorships, guide strategy, and oversee sales, marketing, and operations. I recently completed my Business Management degree and am now pursuing a career in tech sales while building my profile as a public speaker dedicated to empowering underprivileged Gen Z through personal‑development talks. Driven by action and discipline, I’m committed to leading the next generation, raising capital for future ventures, and proving what’s possible with the right team and mindset

Oluwatobi Elegbede
I am a writer and communicator who’s truly passionate about using storytelling to spark real, lasting change in the world. But honestly, I often find myself wrestling with big global issues, looking for some direction when things feel so uncertain. That's why the DMG Summer Leadership Programme with the Aleto Foundation means so much to me. It feels like the perfect place to find that structured environment, build crucial leadership skills, and connect with people who can help me navigate all that ambiguity and feel more grounded.
It's not just about learning new abilities for me; I'm genuinely looking for guidance and reassurance. Getting the chance to chat with distinguished leaders and tap into the Aleto alumni network feels like finding those inspiring examples—those quiet 'whispers of hope' that can be so hard to hear when the world feels disheartening. What really draws me in is Aleto's refreshingly proactive take on building leadership—it's all about positive action, not just giving in to negativity.
When it comes to personal development and career strategy, it's not just about my own success. It's deeply about getting equipped to truly make a difference and move forward in my career. As a Black male, I'll be honest, I currently feel stuck, like there's an 'other side' of opportunity that's just impossible to cross. My knack for engaging diverse audiences, simplifying complex ideas, and crafting powerful stories fits perfectly with fostering inclusivity and making sure all voices are heard. So, I'm really hopeful this four-day program will give me concrete steps toward building a sustainable future.

Abdinasir Hassan Barakow
I am currently completing my third year of the LLB programme at University College London, an opportunity I consider both a privilege and a formative academic challenge. My legal studies have cultivated my strong analytical abilities and a nuanced understanding of justice, complemented by practical experience in mooting and pro bono initiatives. Beyond academia, I maintain an active interest in sports, particularly football- having supported Arsenal from a young age- and have recently become more involved in pickleball, which I find combines strategy with agility. These pursuits have reinforced my appreciation for teamwork, discipline, and adaptability. Music also plays a significant role in my life; R&B and Afrobeats, provide both focus and inspiration during my study and sportsessions. Professionally, I have sought opportunities to develop leadership skills through mentoring as a NCS team leader and coordinating events as a part time job. These experiences have honed my ability to collaborate effectively whilst also taking a leadership role- a balance I hope to refine further through this programme.

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