Civil Society Capacity Building

Dr. Harriet Lewis is a civil society expert with significant experience facilitating change that resulted in greater inclusion and equity.  She has worked in the research, and community and economic development spaces for over 25 years conducting business and tourism research studies, and leading organizations that served women, refugees, youth, and small business owners, including an international volunteer association and a chamber of commerce. Most importantly, she has led teams through staffing transitions and client opportunities that resulted in greater inclusion, stronger teams, and increased access to services for marginalized people.  Dr. Lewis coaches CEOs and HR Managers who desire support and best practices for furthering inclusion and equity in their organizations.

Dr. Lewis has an academic background in communications, public administration, philanthropy, and social policy and planning. She serves on the Board of Directors of the Insight Chicago Hospital and Medical Center; is a member of the Chicago International Trade Commissioners' Association, the Africa Tourism Association, and the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM); is the United Nations Representative for the Nigerian NGO, New Era Educational and Charitable Support Foundation; and is also the Honorary Consul for the Republic of Cabo Verde to the State of Illinois.   

Dr. Julio C. de Carvalho is an educator with over 35 years of experience in secondary and university education delivery and administration.  He has led research and provided strategic consultation to colleges and universities in the United States, Africa, Asia, and Latin America, and has led initiatives to support education for all.  

In a bid to make a difference and impact her community and the world at-large, Patience M. Tarhule is currently the Community Partnership Coordinator for Konesens Development-Nigeria. She builds and strengthens network with community service organizations and government agencies in Nigeria with the focus of peace building and women’s empowerment. She is also the Benue State coordinator for New Era Educational and Charitable Support Foundation (NEEDCSI) since 2019.  As the NEEDCSI State Coordinator, she has introduced and established Peace Education and Leadership Program in schools in Benue State.

Patience served as an Interfaith Youth Ambassador for United Religions Initiative and an Organizing Secretary for the Benue State team of Model United Nation Development Organization International in 2018. She worked with Intra-Health International Initiative on a UNICEF Child protection systems strengthening project on Orphans and Vulnerable Children in Benue State from 2013 -2014. Patience is passionate about bringing change to the society, inclusion of women in leadership positions, improved standard of living for the most marginalized and desires a society where peace becomes a way of life. She loves meeting people, travelling and watching movies.

Jean-Louis Boury has over 20 years of experience in international trade facilitation. He has extensive knowledge of global exporting and international/domestic finance, credit collection, manufacturing and distribution.