Dr. Jude T. Fokwang is an accomplished Associate Professor of Anthropology and Development Practice at Regis University in Denver, USA. Since joining the faculty in 2013, he has emerged as a prominent figure in the field, drawing deeply from his rich Cameroonian heritage. This background not only informs his academic pursuits but also shapes his dedication to highlighting the narratives and complexities of African societies on a global stage. Dr. Fokwang earned his PhD in Sociocultural Anthropology from the University of Toronto in 2007 and has held teaching positions at prestigious institutions across South Africa and Canada.

His Cameroonian origins significantly influence his research, which spans a diverse array of sociocultural topics, including gender, material culture, religion, chieftaincy politics, and socioeconomic development. Dr. Fokwang’s ethnographic film Something New in Old Town (2016) garnered critical acclaim, winning the Best Documentary Film award at the Lekki International Film Festival in Lagos, Nigeria, in 2019. This work serves as a testament to his commitment to portraying authentic African experiences and narratives.

In addition to his film work, Dr. Fokwang is the author of Mediating Legitimacy: Chieftaincy and Democratisation in Two African Chiefdoms (2009) and the forthcoming monograph Engendering Moral Citizenship: An Ethnography of Young People’s Associations, Gender and Social Adulthood in an African City (2021). As the Executive Publisher at Spears Books, he plays a crucial role in promoting African stories worldwide, ensuring that diverse voices are heard and understood.

Since becoming Chair of the Department of Sociology, Anthropology & Criminology in 2021, Dr. Fokwang has been instrumental in the development of the Master’s in Development Practice (MDP) Program, further emphasizing his commitment to education and empowerment. His scholarly work reflects a profound dedication to understanding the intricacies of African societies, rooted in his identity as a Cameroonian.

Dr. Jude T. Fokwang’s impact extends far beyond the classroom and academic publications; he is a vital voice in anthropology, enriching the global discourse on development and culture. By leveraging his Cameroonian origins, he challenges stereotypes and offers nuanced perspectives that contribute to a deeper understanding of African complexities.

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Professor Rose Gana Fomban Leke Cameroonian malariologist and Emeritus Professor of Immunology and Parasitology at the University of Yaoundé I was awarded the UNESCO-L’Oréal Award for Women in Science in 2024, highlighting her pivotal contributions to global health.

Her journey from experiencing malaria in her youth to becoming a leading scientist exemplifies her lifelong commitment to improving health outcomes, particularly for women and children in Africa. Leke’s journey began in Cameroon, where she battled malaria multiple times. After earning her undergraduate degree in the U.S. and her PhD from the Université de Montréal in 1975, she focused on pregnancy-associated malaria. Her collaboration with Diana Taylor at the University of Hawaii led to pivotal findings indicating that higher parasite counts during pregnancy may enhance infant immunity against malaria.

Throughout her career, Leke has established the Cameroon Coalition Against Malaria and served as president of the Federation of African Immunological Societies. She has received numerous accolades, including the Kwame Nkrumah Scientific Award for Women and the Virchow Prize for Global Health in 2023.

Leke’s dedication extends beyond research; she mentors emerging women scientists in Cameroon. Her work not only addresses critical health challenges but also inspires future generations, making her a key figure in advancing public health in Africa.

Professor Rose Gana Fomban Leke’s remarkable career not only showcases her expertise in malariology but also her dedication to mentoring the next generation of scientists in Cameroon. Through her research, advocacy, and leadership, she has significantly advanced the understanding of malaria and its impact on maternal and child health. As Leke continues to inspire future leaders in science, for Puissance237, her work exemplifies the critical importance of African-led research in addressing health challenges and fostering sustainable development across the continent. 

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With a career spanning over two decades, Professor Biwole has emerged as an influential voice in the African public debate, fearlessly expressing her opinions and advocating for positive change. Her remarkable achievements and courageous efforts have not gone unnoticed by #Puissance237.

Since 1998, Viviane Biwole has been active in the academic world, publishing numerous works and holding various positions. She participated in the creation of the Interministerial Network of Management Control Coordinators, a network aimed at sharing and pooling experiences and practices in the field of management control. She has also been a member of the board of directors of BGFI Bank since 2021.

In addition to her academic and professional activities, Viviane Ondoua Biwole is a staunch advocate for gender equality and women’s empowerment. She has expressed her views on the subject in various forums, including an article titled “A Cameroonian Woman to Succeed Paul Biya” published in 2020. She has also criticized the lack of progress in achieving gender equality in Cameroon, as promised by President Paul Biya.

Professor Biwole is also an expert in governance and corruption in Cameroon. She has published articles on her blog, advocating for institutional reforms to ensure more transparent and effective governance. She is a respected voice in the Cameroonian public debate, known for her strong opinions and commitment to promoting good governance and gender equality.

In 2022, Viviane Ondoua Biwole launched “Ufunde,” an online training platform dedicated to the leaders and executives of Cameroonian public and semi-public companies, thus leaving her mark in the journey towards digitalization in Cameroon. Her outspokenness in the African public debate has brought attention to crucial issues and sparked important discussions.

Professor Biwole’s commitment to promoting good governance, gender equality, and women’s empowerment has earned her respect and admiration in Cameroon and beyond. As she continues to advocate for positive change, it is evident that her influence and contributions will leave a lasting impact on society, inspiring future generations to work towards a more equitable and inclusive world through #Puissance237.

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