Caroline Varin is CEO and co-founder of Professors Without Borders. She has led the charity since 2016, overseeing its expansion, the creation of the Think Tank and Prowibo Online. In addition, she has published seven books on international security and recently on the use of games in higher education. She was senior lecturer in International Relations & Law at Regent’s University, and has taught at Richmond University and the London School of Economics.

Caroline holds a PhD in International Relations and an MSc in Comparative Politics from the London School of Economics, an LLM in International Law from the Universita di Bologna, Italy, and a BA in Political Science from the University of Pennsylvania. She recently completed an MBA in Educational Leadership at Tampere University, Finland.

Emily is currently pursuing a PhD in Education at the University of Southampton in Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise using student-centred participatory research methods. Emily obtained her fellowship with Advance HE in 2024, has served a two-year term on the Quality Assurance Agency’s Student Strategic Advisory Committee, and has also recently been elected to the Reaching, Advancing and Inspiring Student Engagement (RAISE) Network Committee. In her first year volunteering with us, she coordinated Prowibo’s first visit to Ghana, teaching AI literacy to faculty staff and communication skills to first year students, and is looking forward to shaping the year of programmes.

Bob is currently a University Lecturer at the Pedagogical State University “Ion Creanga” in Moldova, after serving as a Fulbright Scholar there from 2022 to 2024. He is training teachers and teaching courses in communicative competence while researching the impact of social media, YouTube and multiplayer video games on language acquisition.

In the 2019–20 academic year, Bob was a Guest Lecturer at the Sorbonne-Nouvelle (University of Paris III) and a visiting instructor at Xidian University and Hunan Agricultural University. Before that, he completed two other Fulbright grants. The first was a Fulbright Scholar grant at Minsk State Linguistics University in 2018 as a Visiting Professor in the Teacher Training Institute. The second was a Fulbright Specialist grant in 2019 with Belarusian State University, in the Economics and Management Department, teaching Professional Language and Communication.

His career started on the faculty of the English Department at Ohio State University in 1995 and he retired from there as a member of the senior international staff in 2015.

Tenzin is a lifelong learner with a keen interest in process improvement. While he is a self-described generalist, he works primarily in the communications and business development fields. In practice, this involves a mix of project management, digital marketing, and market research.

Tenzin started as an intern at Professors Without Borders in 2021. In his current capacity as Operations Manager he works with all departments to increase organisational efficiency and harmonise messaging. Tenzin also works as a business analyst at epi[x], an epidemiological software start-up. He graduated from Richmond, The American International University with a BA (Hons) in International Relations and a minor in Philosophy.

Victor currently serves as the Strategic Advisor for Academic Affairs at the University of Luxembourg. Previously, he was at the forefront of child education and development policy at the UNICEF Office of Research and Foresight. Additionally, Victor was a lecturer and researcher at Maastricht University and the United Nations University (UNU-MERIT) in the Netherlands.

Victor holds a PhD in Social Protection from Maastricht University and an MSc in Social Policy Analysis from KU Leuven. As a certified instructor in Problem-Based Learning (PBL), Victor is a longstanding advocate for transformative, inclusive, and innovative education.

Irené Muhire is a seasoned technology leader with over 10 years of experience. Renowned for his strategic vision and leadership, he previously excelled as an IT consultant and as Manager at a startup called Hailo, where he led a migration project to ensure a seamless transition of all driver and passenger data from one application to another, including high-profile clients such as MPs and CEOs. His ability to achieve all service level agreements while focusing on outcomes that improve user experience earned him the prestigious Justies Award from the Ministry of Justice for exceptional performance under pressure.

With a background spanning IT consultancy, startups and cyber security, Irené brings a unique blend of tech insight and product management expertise. His experience as a senior product manager and senior consultant has equipped him to navigate complex regulatory landscapes and deliver innovative, user-based solutions. Irené enjoys fostering a culture of innovation and aligning technical strategies with business objectives to propel organisational growth.

Rachel is a recognised thought leader in innovative, non-formal, and lifelong learning. She brings a special focus on Africa, on youth, and on gender-transformative education, fostering essential, transferable skills that bridge the gap to meaningful employment and entrepreneurship.

Having worked and lived in 24 countries across four continents, Rachel’s global approach drives educational equity, accessibility, and engagement through initiatives that equip individuals with the skills needed to succeed in an evolving world. As a respected speaker, she shares her insights at international conferences and forums, advancing dialogues around the future of education and youth empowerment.

Rachel also spent fifteen years in the finance, energy, and humanitarian sectors, most notably with Goldman Sachs and the UNHCR. She holds an MSc in International Management from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS). She is a National Geographic Certified Educator, a Teach SDGs Ambassador, and works with the African Union and UN organisations on a pan-African environmental initiative. She was honoured with the 2022 NGO Whisperer Social Impact Fellow of the Year Award.

Na’im is an educator and digital creative from a small town in Central Java, Indonesia. Growing up through challenging personal circumstances, he learned to adapt through creativity, analytical thinking, and persistence. These experiences shaped his resilience and inspired his desire to create meaningful impact through storytelling and technology.

He currently serves as an Operations Assistant at Prowibo, where he works closely with and supports the Senior Operations Manager in system improvements, internal communication, and day-to-day operational coordination. Being part of Prowibo has become a meaningful chapter in his journey, one where he feels trusted and valued. He is grateful for the opportunity to rebuild his confidence while contributing to a mission he truly believes in.

Nicola de Caires’ journey began with a passion for business and a belief in what is possible when vision is paired with action. After studying business and accounting, she launched her first venture at just 22, a nightclub that marked the start of a dynamic entrepreneurial path. Her career spans corporate leadership in the hospitality industry and the founding, scaling, and successful exit of multiple businesses, including a modelling training school, consultancy, and manufacturing ventures. Each experience deepened her belief in adaptability, resilience, and purpose-led leadership.

Nicola was drawn to Professors Without Borders because of its heart-led mission to Educate, Inspire, and Empower. She has seen how the relationships between the organisation, its partners, and volunteer professors create an environment where individuals grow in confidence, purpose, and possibility. Passionate about personal growth, Nicola believes that when people follow what truly inspires them, they unlock their potential, and in doing so, create meaningful change for themselves and those around them.

Basak is an executive with nearly 20 years of experience in digital transformation, business development, and social impact within complex international environments. She has held leadership roles in marketing, societal engagement, and business development at companies such as Accenture and Sodexo, as well as in corporate foundations. Working directly with executive committees, general management, and key partners, she has led multicultural teams, launched multi-million-euro initiatives, and supported sustainable, innovative, and meaningful transformations.

A graduate of the TRIUM Global Executive MBA program (HEC Paris, LSE, NYU Stern), Basak combines strategic vision with operational rigour to lead projects with strong business and societal impact. She has driven the global deployment of CRM tools across 60+ countries, designed client offerings aligned with ESG criteria, and structured engaging philanthropy policies on a global scale.

Afina is a digital marketing professional who loves helping purpose-driven brands grow. She has worked with organisations across Asia-Pacific and the US, including green startups, SaaS companies, NGOs, education, and publishing. She enjoys building complete digital ecosystems, from strategy and ads to content creation and community engagement, always combining creativity, empathy, and clear results.

Afina believes her skills can serve a bigger purpose, especially in education. She has seen how a strong digital presence can open doors to life-changing academic opportunities, which is why she feels connected to Professors Without Borders’ mission. With a curious mindset and positive energy, she supports organisations in reaching and inspiring more people through digital platforms.

Clémence has a master’s in Econometrics (TSE, 2021) and enjoys uncovering how data can reveal socio-economic dynamics, turning complex information into insights that advance development issues. She is currently pursuing her PhD in Economics at Wits University in South Africa, where she studies the impact of fragility and conflict on education.

Her research experience includes analysing patterns of food consumption through econometric models and assessing the impact of income and education in Guadeloupe and mainland France. She has also conducted large-scale surveys and studies on investment trends, sustainable finance, and workforce dynamics, strengthening her expertise in data-driven insights. Her work with an education NGO in New Delhi further deepened her commitment to applying analytical tools to address challenges in education and development.

Lise is a passionate advocate for education and social impact, with experience collaborating with educational NGOs and student-led initiatives. She has played a key role in mentoring and outreach programmes, working to expand access to higher education for underrepresented students. Now, she brings her dedication to education, policy, and community development to Professors Without Borders, where she strives to create meaningful change on a global scale.

Lise holds an MSt in Global and Imperial History from the University of Oxford, an MSc in Development Studies from the London School of Economics and a BA in European Politics from King’s College London.

Aayushi is a Computer Science undergraduate from India. She is interested in how technology can be used to improve healthcare and accessibility. Her work has included research on assistive technologies for visually impaired people and biomedical research developing predictive models for stillbirth risk in pregnancy.

Beyond research, Aayushi enjoys writing and has worked as a staff writer for youth-led magazines and runs a small zine highlighting women and gender-expansive people in STEM. She is passionate about computer vision, making technology more approachable, and expanding access to educational opportunities. As a volunteer with Professors Without Borders, she hopes to contribute to greater educational equity and access to quality learning worldwide.

Oluseyi Adebayo James Sodiya is a seasoned project and product management professional with over two decades of experience in the IT, telecommunications, e-commerce, and digital technology industries. He has adeptly led numerous projects to successful completion, continually driving innovation and efficiency.

Oluseyi holds a Bachelor of Technology degree in Architecture and an array of certifications in project management, occupational health and safety, UX design, product management, and generative AI, reflecting his commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

Currently, he hosts the “360Seconds Podcast” on YouTube and other social media platforms, where he dives into the latest in technology and innovation. Additionally, Oluseyi pens a weekly op-ed column titled “Tech Talk with Oluseyi” on skydaily.ng, sharing insights on the tech ecosystem.

In his leisure time, Oluseyi enjoys reading, researching, and ideating new concepts, as well as watching movies and spending quality time with his wife and children. A DIY enthusiast, he relishes hands-on projects and believes that AI is poised to revolutionise the way we work and live.

Richard is currently Head of Digital Architecture at LNER and consultant lead architect at GBR, leading the design of the new national rail retail system. He is an emergent technologist, artist, educator and thinker; a transformation specialist and true polymath.

He has managed parallel senior careers in education and enterprise/emerging tech and has taught and written curriculum at every level of education, writing music as well as writing and producing a large body of computer and traditional art works. He has been a consultant enterprise transformation architect and transformation manager at companies such as the BBC, BSkyB, Aviva Plc, Proximus (Brussels), Microsoft Studios and the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Richard is a Fine Art graduate and proud of it; it gives him a unique and innovative view on deep tech. In education he was a school head of department and founded a university Digital Arts department, creating two undergraduate and two postgraduate degrees in computing and creativity. He has also taught at the London College of Fashion and Birkbeck College, held three external examinerships, held a Visiting Professorship at the University of Salford and a Senior Fellowship at the University of Lincoln. He worked with Marc Lewis to get the School of Communication Arts off the ground, as Principal, a radical work-focused college of creativity and now the UK’s most successful new advertising school.

He has taught at and designed curriculum for every phase of education from 7 to 70 years of age. Starting as a painter, he is an exhibiting artist and has worked with tech and art for 30 years. He has spoken at many conferences around the world and is a member of the Society of Authors, FRSA and BAFTA. He was co-producer of the TECHnique podcast about technology and art practice, and is a published author of one book on interactive advertising and a contributor of several chapters to others.

Titus Ayodele practises accountancy in London. He is an administrator of human and capital assets. He sits as director in some companies and as non-executive director in others. He holds a Master’s degree in Accounting and Finance and a Master’s degree in Corporate Governance and Leadership.

Titus is a community interest individual. He is the secretary general of the Efon Alaaye UK and Europe Association. As a member of the non-profit Junior Chamber International he displayed his accounting prowess in service to humanity; in Rotary International he brings his knowledge in business and his leadership skills to supporting humanitarian services. Titus strives to completion in any task he is assigned. Titus coordinated Prowibo’s first programme in Nigeria at the University of Lagos in 2022.

Rana Cömertpay is a Research Associate at LISER with a PhD in Economics from the University of Luxembourg, as well as a bachelor’s and master’s degree from HEC-ULg, University of Liège. Her work focuses on impact evaluation and policy analysis in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in education, labour, and migration economics. At LISER’s Development Policy Impact Analysis Unit, she evaluates policies in Africa in collaboration with J-PAL Europe, LuxDev, and the Directorate for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Affairs of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.

Her research has been published in leading journals, including the Journal of Development Economics. Rana has taught a range of subjects, including econometrics, macroeconomics, and development economics, at institutions such as the University of Luxembourg and the Université des Sciences Sociales et de Gestion de Bamako in Mali. Fluent in English, French, and Turkish, she is committed to using data-driven insights to address global inequalities, particularly for women and youth.

A French citizen domiciled in the UK, Lucile joined Bibby Financial Services (BFS) as Chief Strategic Development Officer in January 2021, where she heads up the Strategy, Innovation, Marketing and Transformation function. Prior to BFS, Lucile was the Head of the Financial Services practice at Clarasys, a management consultancy, where she drove transformation and strategic plans for a wide range of organisations, from financial services to the not-for-profit sector.

Passionate about social impact, Lucile is connected to multiple organisations and is involved in high-level professional mentoring and other women-centred socio-political initiatives. Within BFS, she drives an initiative looking to close the gender funding gap for small and medium enterprises and is a strong advocate for active inclusion within the business world.

She holds a Master’s degree in Political Science and European Affairs from the Institut d’Etudes Politiques in Lyon, France and has a keen interest in modern and contemporary art.

With her strong background in education, sustainable development, and philanthropy, throughout her career Eva Halper has successfully fostered impactful partnerships between corporate and non-profit sectors.

Eva began her career in education, teaching children and adults. During her 7 years in China, Eva had the opportunity to work for an international development agency, funding grassroots projects throughout China. After moving to the UK, Eva continued to work in the not-for-profit sector, focusing on cross-sector partnerships to address critical social and environmental issues before entering the corporate sector.

Skilled in guiding initiatives from strategic planning to on-the-ground execution, for the past 15 years Eva led two flagship programmes for the foundation of an international Swiss bank: a global education initiative, a grant programme supporting organisations working on girls’ education, and an international skills-based volunteering programme for the bank’s employees.

Eva has lived and worked in diverse locations such as Australia, France, Canada, China, Hong Kong, and the UK. She is fluent in English, French, and Polish, with intermediate proficiency in Mandarin Chinese. Education remains her passion.

Richard has a background in implementing technology solutions for the financial services sector across the UK, US and Europe. He specialises in helping organisations use the latest technologies effectively to improve operational capabilities and deliver real value. His expertise spans system architecture, data infrastructure, and digital transformation, with a particular focus on the responsible integration of artificial intelligence. As Managing Director and co-founder of VAMOS, Richard works with financial organisations to develop effective strategies for AI adoption, focused on empowering humans rather than replacing them.

At Professors Without Borders, Richard serves as a Strategic Advisor for technology, bringing his experience in digital transformation and his knowledge of the latest AI capabilities and tools to help the organisation navigate technological opportunities and challenges in pursuit of its mission to expand educational access globally.

Hannah supports Prowibo with organisational development and other HR-related topics. She has previously worked in People Operations at Google. She enjoys working on process improvements, employee experience, as well as learning and development. Through her background in academia and applied linguistics, she has developed a passion for equal opportunity in education, as well as learning and development in professional settings and how these enable intercultural exchange across nations. Hannah holds a PhD in Applied Linguistics from Stockholm University, as well as an MA in English Linguistics from UCL.

Gabriel Ng is passionate about understanding and increasing the social impact of organisations. He currently is a Social Impact Manager at Big Society Capital, the UK’s impact investing wholesaler. At BSC, he is responsible for impact measurement and management, as well as both investment analysis and ongoing portfolio management.

Gabriel moved from Hong Kong to the UK to study law at the University of Cambridge (Trinity Hall). After graduating, he practised as a solicitor, working in London and New York for Shearman & Sterling for five years specialising in UK and cross-border corporate tax. His previous clients include Anglo American, Citi, Liberty Global, and Intercontinental Exchange.

In 2016, he decided he wanted a career with social impact at its core, and so began a dual MBA/MPA at New York University. Over the course of the three-year degree, he completed fellowships at the Bingham Centre for the Rule of Law and in Microsoft’s human rights team, as well as consulting projects for Concern Worldwide US and the UN World Food Programme in Malawi. He has also assisted on and published several research papers with the NYU Stern Center for Business and Human Rights. Finally, he oversaw the inaugural investment of the NYU Impact Investing Fund into Sapient, a Philadelphia-based start-up that reduces greenhouse gas emissions through energy use management.

Amalia Sanín Betancourt is an international development and cooperation specialist with over 20 years of experience designing and managing international cooperation programmes, building multi-stakeholder partnerships, and leading social impact initiatives across Latin America.

She holds a Law degree from Universidad de los Andes (Colombia), a Master’s degree in Public International Law from Université Paris II Panthéon-Assas (France), and a Master’s degree in International Development Cooperation from Universidad Carlos III of Madrid (Spain).

Throughout her career, Amalia has worked on international cooperation programmes focused on quality education, human rights, rural development, gender equality, and social inclusion. She has supported initiatives benefiting vulnerable communities, including children, women, rural populations, and people affected by armed conflict.

Amalia has developed partnerships with governments, civil society organisations, donors, and private-sector stakeholders in multicultural environments. Her experience includes managing project strategies, fundraising, monitoring and evaluation processes, and strengthening collaboration to achieve sustainable social impact.

She believes in the transformative power of education, collaboration, and knowledge sharing to empower individuals, strengthen local capacities, and contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable future.

Majeks Walker has taught and practised law since 2004. He has an LLM from UCL (Banking Law, Conflict of Law, Corporate Law and Law of Foreign Investment in Emerging Economies), and a Certificate in Law Teaching. He was called to the Bar in England and Wales in 2006 and is a qualified SPP Mediator.

Majeks has taught law at Kaplan and the University of Greenwich. He has also taught Criminology and Psychology at the Royal Holloway University of London. He currently lectures law at undergraduate and postgraduate level at the University of Westminster, and at Regent’s University London.

He is a seasoned corporate trainer and provides advice and training to many multinational companies and sovereign states on various legal issues. Majeks also does a range of philanthropic work, including helping to give a voice to those that cannot afford legal representation.