We are supported by a qualified and led team of experts,
with the capability to design initiatives, guide partnerships,
and implement programmes with discipline and integrity.
Our Leadership:
Chairman ~ Jacques Baril
- Visionary leader and seasoned diplomat with over 20 years of experience across diplomacy, media, technology, and humanitarian sectors. Recognized for promoting global cooperation, youth empowerment and intercultural dialogue. Adept at high-level stakeholder engagement, regional representation, and humanitarian advocacy, especially across Africa, the Caribbean and Latin America.
- Former Ambassador of the Republic of Haiti in South Africa – spearheading diplomatic relations between Haiti and South Africa, strengthening bilateral cooperation in trade, education and cultural exchange.
- Former Dean of Grulac and Caricom – advocating for the shared interests of Latin American and Carribean Countries accross African multilateral platforms
- Provided strategic counsel on international relations, diaspora engagement, and investment partnerships globally.
- Facilitates collaboration between African and Caribbean governments on sustainable development projects.
- Identifies and capitalizes on emerging trends in the tech space, focusing on enterprise solutions, and digital infrastructure.
- Builds long term sustainable partnerships, rooted on trust while promoting benevolent growth.
CEO ~ Lulu Naidoo
- A strategic marketing and business leader with 20+ years of experience in the financial industry, Lulu has held senior executive roles for 15 years.
- Former Head of Strategic Marketing at First Rand’s Public Sector Division, she played a pivotal role in entrepreneurial programs and economic sustainability initiatives.
- Currently, Director of Africa Rising, she works alongside a core strategic team to drive ethical sourcing, fair labor practices, and sustainability in Africa’s textile industry.
- Collaborating with governments, factories, and industry associations, she focuses on compliance, cultural integration, and economic impact.
Brand Ambassador ~ Ndaba Mandela
- An internationally renowned speaker, activist, and author, Ndaba Mandela is dedicated to carrying forward the legacy of his grandfather, Nelson Mandela.
- With a BA in Political Science & International Relations from the University of Pretoria, he is deeply committed to social justice, youth empowerment, and education.
- As Co-founder of the Africa Rising Foundation, Mr. Mandela focuses on education, mentorship, & leadership development for African youth.
- Under his leadership, Africa Rising led a medical outreach drive in remote Eastern Cape villages, providing healthcare education, consultations, and essential medicines.