Theme: START; Channel The Energy Within

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized (subject to certain rules and regulations).

University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State.
University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State.
Benin City, Edo, 300213
Nigeria

Danladi Momodu

Strategy Consultant, World Economic Forum Global Shaper.

Danladi is an emerging leader who is committed to helping individuals and organizations achieve their highest state of expression. His career spans across business development and sales at a healthtech start-up, a Fortune 500 pharma company, and he currently works as a strategy consultant at a global professional services firm. In April 2022, he co-founded the Global Shapers Benin-City Hub, an initiative of the World Economic Forum where until recently, he led the hub’s growth strategy and project management across various impact verticals. He has participated in various events of the World Economic Forum including 2022 and 2023 Global Shapers Annual Summit in Geneva, Switzerland. Danladi holds a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) degree from the University of Benin, and a management program certificate from the Lagos Business School (LBS) Pan-Atlantic University. He is passionate about economic development, technology, and the future of work.

Hakeem Akiode

Head of Growth, Youverify.

Hakeem O. Akiode is a seasoned Growth and Marketing Leader with almost a decade of experience in scaling tech startups and SMEs. As Head of Growth at Youverify, he drives strategic efforts that have led to an industry leading CLTV to CAC ratio of 100, significantly expanding the company’s market presence. Hakeem holds a Bachelor’s degree and an Executive MBA from the Quantic School of Business and Technology, with further training from Product School, USA, and Lagos Business School. His unique blend of growth and product marketing skills, combined with experience in both B2B and B2C sectors, sets him apart as a leader. His career includes key roles at Enactus, Utiva, and Jetseed, where he consistently drove growth and innovation. Hakeem is also a member of the CMO Council, the world's largest community of marketing leaders, a mentor at Adplist, and the founder of the #GrowwithHakeem initiative, which has impacted young tech enthusiasts across Nigeria.

Michael Efemena

Software Engineer at Indicina Technologies

Michael Efemena is a software engineer at Indicina Technologies and the co-founder of Owl Sense, a platform he is actively building to provide services that support fintechs and financial institutions of the future. Michael has played a pivotal role in scaling fintech platforms at companies like Indicina, PayDay, Rabafast, and Broadsend. His experience spans building and optimizing backend systems, and delivering high-performance solutions that drive financial innovation. Michael holds a B.Eng in Computer Engineering from the University of Benin and is passionate about using technology to shape the future of financial services.

Rantiade Benson Idahosa

Founder, Pathfinders Inititative, Lawyer.

Rantiade Benson-Idahosa is a Nigerian native, a thought leader and leading expert on the intersectionality of gender based violence and the economic empowerment of women in sub-Saharan Africa. A trained English Barrister and American lawyer, her work has been featured on multiple national and international news outlets and she has received numerous awards recognising her expertise, which she lends as a strategist, advisor and consultant to organizations as well as state, national and international governments. An activist, published writer, researcher, podcaster and speaker, Ms. Benson-Idahosa also serves as an identity coach and guide, helping others awaken to their divinity. For more information, please visit rebidahosa.com, follow @rebidahosa or email rebidahosa@gmail.com.

Reuben Oshomah

Regional Director for West and Central Africa, Avanti Satellite Communications.

Reuben Oshomah is the Regional Director for West and Central Africa, Avanti Satellite Communications. In this role, he leads Avanti's strategy and business initiatives, driving its vision to expand satellite connectivity and foster digital transformation across the region. With over 20 years of experience in the IT and Telecommunication sectors across Sub-Saharan African and Europe, Reuben has a proven track record of leading high-performing teams and delivering impactful projects. Prior to Avanti, Reuben was instrumental in championing Digital Transforming Initiatives at Microsoft, where he led the Consulting Services Business in Nigeria. He worked across various sectors, including Financial Services, Government , Oil and Gas, Telecommunications, and Manufacturing, helping organizations harness technology to drive efficiency and innovation.

Sophie Abayomi

Founder, CK Africa, Academician.

Sophie Abayomi is a social entrepreneur, lecturer, corporate trainer, and skilled career coach with a deep passion for empowering young people. She is a sought-after speaker on career development, leadership, and academic excellence, with years of experience in the education, training, and human capital sectors. Dr. Sophie has lectured over 10,000 women and youth on topics ranging from business to character and career development, delivering on highly reputable platforms. She is a published author, has published articles in respected academic journals and has received numerous awards in leadership and academics. Her achievements in consistently excelling as a best student from high school through to her doctoral studies are a testament to her dedication and hard work. As an advocate for SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), Dr. Sophie is shaping the next generation of innovators through CK Africa, a social enterprise she founded.

Violet Okosun

Executive Director, Edo Creative Hub

Violet Ohonmoime Okosun currently serves as the Executive Director of the Edo Creative Hub. Hailing from Owan West Local Government in Edo State, Nigeria, Violet brings a wealth of expertise in driving business growth and fostering strategic initiatives across diverse industries. She is an accomplished business development and marketing manager with about 24 years of experience. Her professional journey spans various sectors, including Education, Telecommunications, Hospitality, and Government. Her tenure as a business development leader has honed her skills in market analysis, organizational structuring, and effective team management. As Executive Director of the Edo Creative Hub, she spearheads efforts to position Edo State as a vibrant hub for creative productions and artistic endeavors.