2021 Speakers

Jenna Clifford is a world-renowned jewellery designer, known for her unique designs and superlative craftsmanship. Established in 1992, her company has steadily grown its clientele and improved its profile to institute itself as a powerful force in the jewellery industry. Her bold and dramatic designs are sought after by some of the most recognised business icons and celebrities from around the world. Jenna has been a consistent advocate of women’s rights and equality and is highly active in promoting women in business. In recognition of her advocacy, Jenna received the honour of torchbearer to the United Nations Millennium Development Goals 3 project, highlighting the importance of gender equality and women empowerment, this is shared with Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
Ms. Mansi Dholakia is a Global Mental Health Ambassador, United Nations speaker, Certified Human Rights Consultant, an EI coach, a holistic expert and an author. Mansi is the CEO of GMHA (Global Mental Health Association). She is an advisor on board at Mental Health Change UK, an advisor on board with EQ4PEACE USA. She is also on the board of trustees with World Peace Tracts organization in the United Kingdom.
Sharmla is the President of Global Markets for Duke Corporate Education, currently ranked number 1 in Africa for Executive Custom Education, she currently leads market growth in North America, UK, Europe, Africa and Asia where her expertise includes a strong focus on driving strategy through leadership development by working with strategy, culture and people, she understands the capabilities needed to transform businesses. A visionary driven by one purpose – transforming organizations and society through leadership. She is passionate about achieving sustainable outcomes in the areas of what she terms ‘professional justice’- diversity, equity, inclusion, and women in leadership. She is currently a member of the International Women’s Federation, a board trustee for the AVI Group of black shares scheme, Chairperson of the BCG Development Trust, and a member of the Aspen Global Leadership Network. Sharmla implemented the Women Leading Africa Board Programme building Pan-African bench strength for women serving on board positions for Africa, is also the founding member of “Million Young Minds”, “The DAVOS of Human Capital, Leadership for a Better World” and “The Mentorship Circle for Future Leaders”.

AIDA DIARRA

Senior Vice President and Head of Sub-Saharan Africa, VISA

Aida Diarra joined Visa as SVP & Head for Sub Sahara Africa in November 2018. In this capacity, she overseas Visa’s business operations in fifty countries and seven offices in Sub Saharan Africa. Her focus is on digitizing cash, driving wider digital acceptance, and promoting financial inclusion in the diverse markets of the region.

Aida is a recognized leader in the financial services and digital finance industries, having previously led Western Union’s Africa portfolio. She has a Master Business Administration (MBA) in International Business & Management from the University of Hartford, as well as a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from American Business School.