A dynamic conscientious agile leader, passionate about socio-economic justice driving sustainable development. A development management professional with 15+ years of experience in effectively designing and implementing various sustainable development projects, establishing and nurturing public-private partnerships for sustainable development across diverse economic sectors. Specialized in initiating and managing business for social justice; experienced in community development notably public health, welfare for children, women, and youth economic empowerment. Proficient in Diplomacy, Entrepreneurship, and the travel trade & the tourism industry promotion, sales and marketing. Skilled in Nonprofit Organizations Management, Resource mobilization, Human Resource Management, Corporate Social Responsibility, and Events Management. A business-economist with a strong research background in entrepreneurship, advocating for policy formulation and capacity building. Expertise in creating business opportunities and establishing partnerships across government, private sector, and civil society institutions.

Abdulla Jihad is a Maldivian politician who served as vice president of the Maldives from 22 June 2016 to 17 November 2018. Prior to his appointment on 22 June 2016, he served as the minister of finance.

Jihad was born on 3 January 1964. He graduated from the University of Waikato, New Zealand, with a masters of management studies degree in economics. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in economics/management from the University of South Pacific, Fiji.

Jihad first joined government services in 1980 as a temporary audit staff at the audit office. He later went on to fill a number of prestigious managerial posts in the government. On 22 June 2016, he was appointed vice president of the republic of the Maldives by President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom.

Prior to assuming the post of vice president, Jihad served as the minister of finance and treasury in President Yameen’s Administration. He had also served as the minister of finance and treasury in President Mohamed Waheed Hassan’s Administration from 5 March 2012 to 17 November 2013, and in President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom’s Administration from 15 July 2008 to 11 November 2008. Other notable posts he filled were governor of Maldives Monetary Authority (2007–2008) and member of the Civil Service Commission.

Jihad has attended many international conferences, seminars, workshops and training programmes and has visited numerous countries in the discharge of government responsibilities.

Richard has been a firm believer in the value of the Chamber movement and active participant in The London Chamber and several bi lateral Chambers/associations for many years usually as Director, Board member and Founder. For example, The Belgrade Wealth Forum was one of his initiatives and he has on going interests particularly concerning inward investment and related service providers. As a market access and international business development specialist, Richard has an eclectic skill set and up to date knowledge in order to facilitate business and is recognised as an empathetic multicultural facilitator with wide sectoral understanding. As a self-employed ‘strategic advisor’ he is currently retained, and has been for several years, by a wide cross section of companies, Harod Global investigative solutions, WakeUp Capital, NTLTrust, AltiaIntel and Dominion of Canada Rifle Association. Plus pro bono activities for The Entrepreneur Studio , London Board of Crime Stoppers and other mentoring activities for young people.

By way of background: Richard was born in Bermuda. His family, originally from Scottland/Ireland, moved to The Bahamas in 1958. His nationality is British. He attended boarding School in Edinburgh Scotland from 8-17.Clifton Hall and Merchiston Castle. Subsequently : York University , Glendon College, Toronto Canada. BA Hons. London School of Economics. MSc.Economics . Also attended The Sorbonne and Institute of Political Studies. Paris. Trained in International Private Banking and portfolio management Geneva Switzerland.BearBull/ CMF. Geneva , Paris, Nassau. Lloyd’s Bank, NatWest Monte Carlo , Monaco. Private Banking Management .JH Minet. Lloyd’s of London Insurance brokers . International market access specialist. Lloyd’s market Insurance exams. The Sovereign Group. International market access strategic advisor. Financial services. Harod Associates. Global investigative solutions. Integrity and due diligence investigations. Memberships and other associations: Chartered Institute of Public Relations, Caledonian Club, Worshipful Company of World Traders, Institute of Strategic Risk Management, All party Parliamentary Group for International trade and logistics.

Lola Ade-John is former Minister for the Federal Ministry of Tourism, Nigeria. With a robust background in strategic business transformation, she excels in leveraging innovative design and technology to drive progress in the tourism sector. Holding a Bachelor of Science from the University of Ibadan, her education spans prestigious institutions including Norwich City College in the UK, Holy Child College, Corona School and the Federal School of Arts and Science in Lagos.

Her career began with the National Youth Service Corps in Delta State, setting the stage for a distinguished path across various industries. Her extensive experience in the oil & gas, financial, and technology sectors has provided her with insights into enhancing Nigeria’s tourism landscape.

Honourable Minister Ade-John is dedicated to promoting Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, fostering sustainable tourism practices that attract global interest and drive economic growth. Her work across Africa, North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East enriches her ability to integrate diverse perspectives and innovative solutions in tourism.

Her impactful contributions to organisations such as Shell Development Company Nigeria, Magnum Trust Bank (now part of Sterling Bank), Access Bank Nigeria, United Bank for Africa, Ecobank Group, and Nedbank Group highlight her commitment to community development and environmental sustainability.

As a passionate advocate for human resource development, she mentors and advises on strategic technology management, driving innovation and success in both national and international tourism initiatives. Her vision positions Nigeria as a premier global tourist destination.