Abiola Akinbiyi is the visionary Founder and Chair of Changepreneurs, an initiative she started as a self-funded passion project. Changepreneurs is dedicated to mentoring, helping, and empowering young African Australian youth and women from diverse backgrounds to reach their full potential. As a mentor with many success stories, she believes in the ubuntu philosophy
In 2021, Abiola was appointed as a commissioner of the Victorian Multicultural Commission(VMC). She also serves on many community and health board Abiola is a registered nurse, nurse educator, former IT professional, and entrepreneur deeply committed to community development.
Her advocacy spans cultural diversity, aged care, and women and youth empowerment. Abiola remains devoted to nurturing the next generation of empowered women and fostering a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
MaryJane joined Changepreneurs in 2020, she has participated in different leadership program and she is the founder of Muve-Box a sustainable alternative to traditional moving boxes. She is also a participant of the Blue Nile program 2021and an active member of Firm Foundation Ministries.
Terry joined Changepreneurs in 2019 as an international student, she is now graduate, socilal worker and the founder of Wambui Ndegwa home decor an interior design business located in Melbourne. She is also an advocate for international students and an active member of her community.
Gift Joined Changepreneurs in 2019 while navigating her into a nursing career, She is now a registered Nurse is who aspires
to make a difference in the community by using her career skills and knowledge to give excellent services in the healthcare industry. She is an active participant of her community and church.
Olu joined Changepreneurs as a year 11 student in 2021. She has now completed International Baccalaureate DP. She is involved in the Debate team at her school and is also an active member in FFMG She is now in second year University Studying Pharmacy. She is a great moderator and an Emerging leader
Emma began her leadership journey as a member and a mentee under the Changepreneurs Inc. program in 2020. Emma is now the Vice-president of Changepreneurs, a position she attained through her dedication, and commitment . Under the Changepreneurs pathway to leadership program, she has been able to join other organisations and Intercultural Young Advocacy Leadership group with Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria and actively drive initiatives to support African Australian Youths lead programs. As the Vice-president of Changepreneurs, Emma led the planning committee for International women’s Day In 2022-2023.Emma holds a master’s degree in public health and a Bachelor's in Accounting and Finance. Emma’s academic prowess is a testament to her commitment to driving impactful change. Emma has now been appointed as a board director for Karralika Programs
Ning joined Changepreneurs in 2021 she is a dedicated healthcare professional with three years of experience in aged care. Leading a team at an aged care facility, she ensured top-notch care for residents and played a crucial role during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Once hindered by a fear of public speaking and career obstacles, Ning transformed her journey through mentoring and support. Now, she's on a mission to change the world as a Changepreneur.
As an African Australian woman from a refugee background, Ning aims to reshape the narrative around refugees in Australia, showcasing their positive contributions. Her journey, including earning a science degree, underscores her belief in the power of female leadership through mentorship and sisterhood. Ning story is one of resilience and aspiration, constantly striving for excellence in her career and beyond.
My name is Sanjana or Preeti, as others know me. I am currently working casually with Wyndham council as a youth worker, Paul Sadler as a Swim Teacher, also studying my Masters in Social Work full time, a single mum of two children and the Changeprenuers secretary. I was introduced and joined Changeprenuers In 2021 and it has been a journey since then. with 3 international women’s day events, the opportunity to attend a leadership development with Victorian multicultural commission, To speak at global youth mental health alliance summit & help to volunteer at events such as Africa Day Gala and opportunity to attend Victorian multicultural gala dinner and connect with many people. I recently start my own catering business offering delicious grazing table
Ruth Kamau is currently serving as the treasurer of Changepreneurs. She joined the organisation 4 years ago. Being part of this group has greatly harnessed my leadership skills through exposure to various trainings and events. She currently work as finance administrator and recently became a Member of CPA through the encouragement of our President, fondly called Auntie Abi. "Changepreneurs offers a unique model of mentorship to Women from CALD who want to excel in leadership and entrepreneurship through one to one sessions, continuous follow ups and various educative events".
My future aspirations for the group is to see more women from CALD rise to places of influence in leadership and entrepreneurship though this organisation. Ruth is now also a treasurer at KCV
Fatima was recently call to bar. She is a qualified lawyer with unwavering dedication to support and help people in need.
Meet some of our members and committees