Okama Epke Brook is a distinguished Board Member of Start the Ripple, bringing a wealth of experience as an international development expert, policy adviser, scholar, and philanthropist. With an MA in Development Studies and Public Policy, Okama currently serves as a Research Assistant at the University of Alberta in Edmonton, Canada.

Her career in international development began in 1996 and spans diverse regions including Canada, Thailand, Laos, Sri Lanka, Curacao, and Sint Maarten. As the founder and president of the Africa Caribbean Heritage Alliance (ACHA), Okama has led impactful projects across Africa, the Caribbean, and North America.

In Nigeria, she directed the ACHA/VOICE Innovation and Reconnection project and has been involved in Now-US Awards initiatives abroad. Okama also volunteers as Vice President/Global Liaison for VOME Magazine, a USA-based publication focused on transforming Africa’s economy through strategic partnerships.

With extensive experience in over 50 countries and collaborations with the United Nations, international NGOs, and various governments, Okama’s global perspective and commitment to sustainable development significantly enrich Start the Ripple’s mission.