MULTIPLE AWARD WINNER, AUTHOR,, CORPORATE MC, MENTOR, PROMOTER & AMBASSADOR FOR PEACE -UNIVERSAL PEACE FEDERATION. WE PROMOTE THE SUCCESS STORIES OF AFRICANS & CARIBBEANS AROUND THE WORLD. CONTACT US NOW ON +447882809005
Born on the 28th of March, 2001, Leo Edochie is a creative storyteller with a degree in Film, Theatre, and Television. Driven by a passion for building ideas from the ground up, he has always been drawn to the process of creating, shaping, and connecting meaningful work.
That passion led to the founding of Lions Den Studios, a creative platform focused on intentional storytelling and production. He is also the creator and host of Lion In The Room, a podcast centred on boldness, honest conversation, and uplifting others through reflection, growth, and real-world insight. Through his work, Leo aims to inspire courage, depth, and purpose in both creators and audiences alike.
We are pleased to inform you that Owek. Elizabeth Kaleebi has been appointed Minister for Foreign Affairs of Butembe Chiefdom, one of the Chiefdoms of Busoga Kingdom in Eastern Uganda. She works at the intersection of diaspora leadership, sustainable development, and international partnerships.
She is the Chairperson of Busoga Nordic Development Association (Sweden) and the Regional Leader for Twegaite Nordic, mobilising African diaspora networks in the Nordic region to support community-led development in Uganda.
Her work focuses on economic sustainability of traditional institutions, renewable energy solutions, community-based skills education, and youth and women empowerment, with a strong emphasis on climate-smart and culturally grounded development models.
Owek. Elizabeth Kaleebi continues to set the pace in making a difference to many communities in different regions.
We are pleased to inform you that Greater Manchester Black Tech Expo in partnership with AFRICA4U AND FRIENDS CIC will be organising The Africa4u Awards for Africans in GREATER MANCHESTER taking place at The Maxwell Building, The University of Salford, 43 The Crescent Salford M5 4WT on Monday the 26th of January 2026 at 4pm .
COME AND BE PART of this amazing annual initiative aimed at bringing communities and the youth together to celebrate their stories as we embrace the spirit of community cohesion, inclusion, and diversity.
Africa4u CIC continues to promote the true life and success stories of African and Caribbean Achievers around the world . We have organised community award initiatives in The UK, Germany, Netherlands, Romania , Switzerland, Egypt, The USA and Nigeria
KEY SPEAKERS ON THE DAY
Mr Michael Ekpechue- The Director of Adanian Labs
Michael Ekpechue is a prominent figure involved with the Greater Manchester Black Tech Expo, often speaking at or promoting their events, like the recent “AI For All” session in November 2025, focusing on inclusive tech and People Data Infrastructure (PDI) for the community, as seen in his LinkedIn posts. He’s actively championing tech access and innovation for creators, students, and businesses in the region, partnering with organizations like Adanian Labs and MMU.
Dr Sohal Ahmed – Director of Bradford 4 BETTER organisation ( National Diversity Award Winners and Winners of The King’s Award )
Dr Sohail Abraham Ahmed is a multi-award winning medical doctor and the founder of Aelixir Media and Aelixir Healing.Dr Sohail is from Bradford, U.K. and works in a number of sectors, including the NHS, community, voluntary, arts and media.
Dr Sohail is regarded as one of the top GP’s in the U.K after being nominated as the GP of the year at the National General Practice awards in 2021.
Dr Sohail is a founding member and the current Chair of one of the largest and fastest growing community-action groups in the United Kingdom, Bradford 4 Better, who were also the recipients of the first ever King’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2024.
Dr Sohail has worked in multiple sectors over the years ranging from retail, hospitality, sports, voluntary, community and healthcare and continues to provide mentorship and opportunities for those seeking work experience.
SIMBA SMP – Director of Simba Media Productions and Pan Africanist Thought Leader
Simba Chioto studied for BA in Media and Communications (TV) at the University of Westminster in London. He then went to Hong Kong to study Broadcast Journalism and Asian Culture at the Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) and acquired work experience in that region of the world.
Simba is also a holder of a Bachelor of Science degree in Television and Film Production from University of Greenwich, London and a Diploma in the Management of Information Systems.
Some of his media work highlights include being selected to work for the Olympic Broadcasting Company (OBS), a company that beamed the London 2012 Olympics around the world. He was also an official London Ambassador who welcomed dignitaries from around the world and received appreciation from Prime Minister David Cameroon and Mayor Boris Johnson. Besides media business and work experience in Asia, Simba has also worked for Transport for London.
Simba is passionate about empowerment and supporting the undermined and less privileged members of society. This is exhibited by his experience of voluntary work in different countries in Europe, Asia and Africa. Some of the organizations he has worked for in London include Shape a disabled persons empowering organization and Worldwrite a charity that deals with issues shunned by the mainstream media. At Worldwrite he has been a researcher about the European and English canon, slavery, colonialism literature and the works of powerful historian CLR James. He joined ZimLink, an international organization that promotes culture exchange and empowering individuals through the use of media
Also watch this space for a detailed list of our Award Recipients who will also be receiving prizes on the day
For more information and to become a sponsor , Contact Michael on 07405230017 or Tony on 07882809005
Powered by Community. Driven by Innovation. Meta Description: Greater Manchester Black Tech Expo (GMBTE) is a community-driven movement empowering digital literacy, skills development, innovation, and business growth across Greater Manchester. Discover how GMBTE is bridging the digital divide and building an inclusive digital future.
What Is GMBTE? Greater Manchester Black Tech Expo (GMBTE) is a community-led digital empowerment platform dedicated to making technology accessible, inclusive, and beneficial for everyone — especially Black and underrepresented communities across Greater Manchester. More than an event, GMBTE is a movement. A movement committed to equity, opportunity, and long-term digital empowerment.
Our Purpose GMBTE exists to create real, lasting impact across the region by delivering:
● Digital literacy and digital skills training ● Upskilling programmes for all ages ● AI, blockchain, and emerging tech learning ● Business growth and entrepreneurship support ● Community events, workshops, and networking ● Partnership-driven opportunities and pathways ● Tech access and inclusive innovation
Everything we do is built around uplifting communities, unlocking opportunities, and ensuring no one is left behind in the fast-changing digital world.
Who We Serve GMBTE welcomes and supports:
● Young people exploring digital careers ● Adults transitioning into tech ● Creators, innovators, and digital makers ● Small business owners and entrepreneurs ● Parents, families, and community groups ● Local organisations seeking digital inclusion support ● Anyone committed to learning, improving, and building a better future
If you have a passion for growth, learning, or community impact — GMBTE is for you.
What Makes GMBTE Different GMBTE stands out because we are:
● Community-built and community-powered ● Focused on digital literacy, not just tech exhibitions ● Committed to access, representation, and equality ● Open to all ages, backgrounds, and ability levels ● Driven by partnerships that create real opportunities ● Centered on local impact with global relevance ● Empowering people through practical learning, not theory alone
We don’t just talk about change — we create it.
Powered by Collaboration
Collaboration is at the heart of our mission. GMBTE works closely with:
● Local universities & colleges ● Technology companies ● Innovation hubs ● Community organisations ● Diaspora groups ● Global partners ● Local initiatives
Together, we build pathways to digital skills, employment, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Our Growing Impact GMBTE is actively transforming communities across Greater Manchester by:
● Increasing digital literacy ● Creating accessible learning spaces ● Supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs ● Opening doors to tech careers ● Encouraging creativity, innovation, and confidence ● Building inclusive digital ecosystems ● Helping families, students, and adults upskill ● Strengthening community networks and opportunities
Every session, programme, and partnership brings us closer to a more inclusive digital future.
Why GMBTE Matters Greater Manchester is a rapidly growing digital city — but many still face barriers to access and opportunity. GMBTE bridges this divide by giving people the skills, tools, and support needed to succeed. We are developing a future where everyone — regardless of background — has a fair chance to participate, learn, build, innovate, and thrive.
Join the Movement GMBTE is more than an expo. It is a growing community of learners, builders, creators, leaders, and partners committed to making Greater Manchester a beacon of inclusive digital advancement. Together, we can build a future where every voice is heard, every talent is seen, and every community has a place in the digital economy.
Learn More 🌐 gmblacktechexpo.co.uk 📧 info@gmblacktechexpo.co.uk
Cynthia Akinyi Waggah (She/Her) Public Administrator | Community Leader | Founder & Director, Afrikana CIC
Cynthia Akinyi Waggah is a seasoned public administrator, community leader and social impact practitioner with over a decade of experience spanning Government services, Non-governmental Organisations and community development initiatives. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Public Administration at the University of Birmingham, building on her academic foundation in Political Science, Sociology and Communications from the University of Nairobi, Kenya.
Cynthia has served in senior positions within the Government of Kenya’s Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government Functions, where she provided leadership in national development projects, coordinated border management programmes and contributed to security and peacebuilding initiatives.
Her work included policy formulation as part of the Border Management Secretariat, collaboration with international partners such as the US Customs and Border Protection and GIZ and supervision of staff, assets and cross-departmental operations.
Beyond government, Cynthia has experience in grants administration with Rafiki Wa Maendeleo Trust, where she supported programme development, donor reporting and grant compliance.
Her early career included customer service roles with South African Airways and Flowerwings Kenya Ltd, strengthening her communication, client relations and operations management skills.
She is currently the Chairperson of the Cumberland Sanctuary Network, where she provides strategic leadership, financial oversight and governance support for a community-based charity. Cynthia is also the Founder and Director of Afrikana CIC, a community interest company dedicated to creating inclusive, culturally rich and safe spaces that promote wellbeing, creativity and social cohesion. Afrikana CIC’s programmes include:
Mental Health Clubs – providing peer support and wellbeing activities.Arts & Crafts for All Ages – fostering creativity and intergenerational exchange. Monthly Film Nights – exploring culture, identity, and community through cinema. Weekly Afro-Social Events – celebrating African and Caribbean heritage through food, music, and dialogue. Bi-Annual Large Community Events – festivals and gatherings bringing diverse communities together.
Community Space Hire – providing accessible venues for grassroots projects. Informal Coffee Mornings – nurturing connections and open conversations. Afrikana CIC’s work is made possible through the efforts of volunteers, young people, families, and community leaders who share Cynthia’s passion for inclusion, resilience, and cultural celebration.
With strong communication skills, proven leadership, and a deep commitment to public service, Cynthia continues to use her expertise in project management, governance, and community engagement to drive meaningful change. She is passionate about empowering communities, tackling social inequalities, and creating opportunities for young people to thrive.
Are you an African living in the diaspora making a profound difference in your area of expertise. ?
Would you like to promote your success stories to a wide audience to inspire the minds of a a new generation?
We are always looking for Africans in the Diaspora as future guests on PREMIER RADIO STATION IBADAN NIGERIA
PLEASE NOTE – there is a waiting list – but why not call us now on +447882809005 for an initial discussion and we will see what slots are available and connect you with the management team
PREMIER RADIO STATION IBADAN NIGERIA is The first FM Radio Station from the SouthWest Zone of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria. (FRCN)
HOW MUCH DO YOU KNOW ABOUT BANTS N BITE (FOOD DELIVERIES) LAGOS, NIGERIA
Bants’n’Bite is a fast growing small food business committed to providing delicious, hygienically prepared meals to students, individuals, and busy professionals. We offer a wide range of Nigerian dishes including pepper soup varieties, rice meals, pasta, sandwiches, swallows, and tasty side options. Our meals are prepared fresh daily, with attention to flavor, cleanliness, and customer satisfaction.
TONY TOKUNBO ETEKA FERNANDEZ 