Our Team

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Grateful Itiowe-Jonathan

CEO and Founder

Visionary leader, passionate change-maker, and the CEO and Founder of the Great Innovators Foundation for Transformation (GIFT)

Grateful Itiowe-Jonathan

Grateful Itiowe-Jonathan is a visionary leader, passionate change-maker, and the CEO and Founder of the Great Innovators Foundation for Transformation (GIFT). With a deep commitment to empowering communities and fostering sustainable development, Grateful has dedicated her life to creating innovative solutions that address poverty, hunger, education, and healthcare, while advancing the Gospel and Christian values.

Raised in a strong faith tradition, Grateful’s love for service and leadership has only deepened over the years. Inspired by her experiences at global gatherings such as the Lausanne Younger Leaders Gathering (YLG16) in Indonesia, she founded GIFT to harness creativity and innovation for lasting impact in underserved communities. From Bible donations to skill acquisition programs, GIFT’s initiatives are designed to equip people with the tools they need to build brighter futures.

Grateful is also a highly accomplished attorney. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Law from the University of Abuja and was called to the Nigerian Bar after completing her studies at the Nigerian Law School. Her passion for global leadership led her to pursue a Master of Arts in Global Leadership from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary (GCTS) in the USA, where she graduated with honors and was inducted into the Phi Alpha Chi Honors Society. She also earned a Master’s in Business Administration from Bangor University in Wales, UK.

In addition to her work with GIFT, Grateful has been deeply involved in academia, teaching at all levels—from Kindergarten to PhD. She currently lectures Business Law and Ethics at the University of Nigeria and remains dedicated to empowering future generations of leaders. Driven by her belief in the transformative power of education, Grateful dreams of building schools in various nations, providing underprivileged people with access to quality, life-changing education.

Under her leadership, GIFT has spearheaded transformative projects, including the acquisition of over 100 acres of land for agricultural initiatives aimed at reducing poverty and empowering local communities. Her work extends beyond Nigeria, with her leadership journey taking her to global summits and conferences in Spain, Kenya, USA, UK, and Korea, where she continues to influence cross-cultural leadership development through the Lausanne Leadership Journey.

Grateful is not just a leader; she is a mentor, inspiring young leaders through her Kingdom Impact Network (KIN), a project that equips emerging leaders to make a global impact while giving back to their home nations.

Grateful Itiowe-Jonathan is committed to making a lasting difference through her legal, business, and leadership expertise. Together with her husband, Joseph Jonathan, she continues to influence lives globally, blending innovation, faith, and leadership to drive positive change.

Pastor Joseph Jonathan

Dedicated minister and strategic leader at Great Innovators Foundation for Transformation (GIFT)

Pastor Joseph Jonathan

Pastor Joseph Jonathan is a dedicated minister and strategic leader at Great Innovators Foundation for Transformation (GIFT), where he serves as the National Skills Acquisition Trainer and Business Analyst. His role focuses on alleviating poverty and hunger through agriculture and skills development programs that equip individuals with the tools and knowledge to improve their livelihoods. Pastor Joseph’s commitment to transforming lives through strategic input and hands-on training has empowered countless individuals and communities to overcome socio-economic challenges.

With a vision for GIFT to extend its impact beyond Nigeria, Pastor Joseph envisions a future where the Foundation’s initiatives bring lasting change. He dreams of establishing a hospital that will serve as a beacon of health and hope, a school that will be a source of light and education, and a skills acquisition center that restores values and equips people with the abilities they need to thrive. Through his leadership, GIFT is positioned to leave an enduring legacy that transcends borders and transforms lives globally.

In addition to his work at GIFT, Pastor Joseph is also a seasoned music minister with over 20 years of experience. His leadership as a choir director and youth pastor has nurtured the faith and talents of countless young people. Alongside his wife, Grateful Itiowe-Jonathan, founder of GIFT, they continue to impact lives, fulfilling their God-given mission to serve humanity.

Sam Duke

Director of Programs

Methodical and logical thinker with an eye for detail, and trained in problem-solving.

Sam Duke

Sam Duke serves as the Director of Programs with GIFT. I live in Pennsylvania, United States, and have visited Nigeria. I am a methodical and logical thinker with an eye for detail, trained in problem-solving. I work full time as a licensed Mechanical Engineer (by the United States NH Board) doing HVAC and plumbing design for commercial/industrial buildings with Barry-Wehmiller Design Group.

Since I was a teenager, I have wanted to use my skills and training to show compassion and better conditions in the majority world. I love Jesus and believe that as we care for those in need, we are loving Him and acting as a direct extension of His love for others. God’s compassion is more clearly grasped through our efforts. I believe it’s also important to tell others about our deep motivations. For me, that means clearly communicating Jesus’ great compassion that was expressed when He died on the cross to cover our sins and to restore us to relationship with God, which happens when we trust in Him and believe that God raised Him from the dead. I’ve done some volunteer consulting work with a Christian engineering group called Engineering Ministries International, my father is a missionary to international students in Colorado, and I have been on several international mission trips so I have experience relating and working cross-culturally.

I look forward to adding value to GIFT through offering technical advice, ensuring projects are accomplished ethically and with excellence, collaborating with individuals in Nigeria and the United States to further the GIFT network and ensure team alignment, and helping to develop short- and long-term project plans. I enjoy reading, writing meaningful creative essays, playing guitar and hiking in my spare time.

Edward Idemudia Agboare

Chief Financial Officer

With more than 14 years of experience in Nigeria’s financial sector, I am instrumental in advancing the foundation's mission to combat poverty and hunger.

Edward Idemudia Agboare

Edward Idemudia Agboare serves as the Chief Financial Officer of Great Innovators Foundation For Transformation (GIFT), where his more than 14 years of experience in Nigeria’s financial sector are instrumental in advancing the foundation’s mission to combat poverty and hunger. His heart for community transformation drives his work, leveraging financial expertise to empower vulnerable communities through GIFT’s agricultural and skills acquisition programs.

Edward holds a Master’s degree in Accounting and Finance, a Postgraduate Diploma in Education, and is currently pursuing a PhD in China. His academic background reflects his passion for lifelong learning and equips him with the knowledge to guide GIFT’s programs toward long-term, sustainable impact.

At GIFT, Edward’s contributions extend beyond managing finances. Drawing from his experience as a pastor and youth mentor, he brings a deep sense of purpose to the foundation’s initiatives, helping to inspire and empower individuals. His leadership is driven by his vision for uplifting the underprivileged and implementing strategic solutions that foster lasting change in communities.

A member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), and the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Edward’s professional expertise and leadership help ensure GIFT’s operations are financially sound and impactful. His commitment to excellence and heart for transformation are at the core of GIFT’s success.

Edward is also a devoted husband and father of three, balancing his professional, personal, and ministerial responsibilities with a steadfast commitment to serving others and advancing GIFT’s mission.

Keylin Noguera

Director of Spiritual Formation, Prayer, and Fundraising

Master of Divinity (MDiv) from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary USA in 2023, drawing from her rich Guatemalan heritage and strong Christian foundation.

Edward Idemudia Agboare

Keylin Noguera is a passionate leader with a deep love for prayer and spiritual development. She graduated with a Master of Divinity (MDiv) from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary USA in 2023, drawing from her rich Guatemalan heritage and strong Christian foundation. Currently, she serves at a Christian middle school, dedicating her heart to urban ministry and outreach.

In her role as Director of Spiritual Formation, Prayer, and Fundraising at Great Innovators Foundation for Transformation, Keylin oversees spiritual formation and prayer, ensuring the community remains grounded in faith. She also plays a vital role in fundraising efforts, helping to generate the resources needed to support the organization’s mission of transforming lives and empowering underserved communities. Her dream is to engage more people in investing in missions abroad and to raise awareness about GIFT’s impactful work.

Keylin’s background in business administration complements her ministry, as she aspires to start her own business that gives back to communities in need. Fun-loving and adventurous, she enjoys exploring new cities, enriching her experiences and perspective. With a heart for service and a commitment to spiritual growth, Keylin continues to inspire those around her, making a lasting impact in the lives she touches.

Gabriel KC Okenwa

Media Strategist | Trainer | Videographer

inspiring others through technology, storytelling, and the message of God's love.

Gabriel KC Okenwa

Fueled by a deep passion for God and humanity, Gabriel KC Okenwa dedicates his life to inspiring others through technology, storytelling, and the message of God’s love.

As the Media Strategist, Trainer, and Videographer for national projects at GIFT Foundation, Gabriel plays a pivotal role in poverty and hunger alleviation by leveraging innovative media strategies that promote agriculture and skill acquisition programs.

Through his expert use of pictures and videos, he helps tell compelling stories that resonate deeply, driving positive change in the community.

Known for his meticulous attention to detail, Gabriel is one of the most careful members of his team, ensuring that every shot is perfect and every message is clear.

He feels truly at home behind the camera, using his skills to bring out the beauty and depth of each story. Beyond his work at GIFT Foundation, Gabriel is passionate about educating children on God’s love and serves as a videographer for Cantemos Harmony Choral on YouTube, blending his love for technology and music to create content that uplifts and inspires.

Joseph Ifeanyi Ulasi

Director of Agro Project Development and Management

Agricultural expert committed to achieving Zero Hunger (SDG 2) and advancing food security through sustainable agricultural practices.

Joseph Ifeanyi Ulasi

Joseph Ifeanyi Ulasi is a dedicated agricultural expert committed to achieving Zero Hunger (SDG 2) and advancing food security through sustainable agricultural practices. With a Bachelor’s degree in Crop Production (Horticulture) and a Master’s degree in Plant Breeding and Genetics, Joseph is currently pursuing a PhD in Plant Breeding, Genetics, and Biotechnology, enhancing his expertise in creating innovative agricultural solutions.

Over the past 7 years, Joseph has gained extensive experience working with crops like maize, yam, cassava, rice, and vegetables. His areas of expertise include crop improvement, seed production, and agricultural extension services. He has trained over 3,000 smallholder farmers in modern agricultural practices, resulting in improved yields and livelihoods. His current research focuses on breeding disease-resistant potatoes to address late blight disease, contributing to global food security.

As Agricultural Director at GIFT, Joseph leads the design and implementation of impactful agricultural programs that prioritize climate-resilient farming, market access, and the empowerment of smallholder farmers, especially women and youth. He collaborates with stakeholders, policymakers, and communities to build sustainable agricultural systems that foster economic growth, environmental stewardship, and the well-being of marginalized populations. Through his work at GIFT, Joseph is driving meaningful change in agricultural development and community transformation.

Chinwe Atkinson

Partnerships and Educational Outreach Director

Passionate educator and community advocate with over 21 years of experience in K-12 education across Massachusetts, North Carolina, and New York.

Chinwe Atkinson

Chinwe Atkinson is a passionate educator and community advocate with over 21 years of experience in K-12 education across Massachusetts, North Carolina, and New York.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Certificate of Global Health from Duke University, as well as a Master of Science in Education and Special Education from Hunter College, City University of New York.

With more than 30 years of involvement in community development, Chinwe’s focus has been on enhancing academic capacity, food security, and human rights.

As the Partnerships and Educational Outreach Officer at GIFT, she is driven by a powerful vision: to build a sustainable community where individuals can live, thrive, and develop skills that not only improve their lives but also benefit their families.

Through GIFT, Chinwe seeks to empower individuals to take charge of their destinies, equipping them with the tools and resources to contribute to a flourishing society.

A proud mother, Chinwe’s personal journey has strengthened her commitment to creating a better future for generations to come.

Her work with GIFT reflects her dream of fostering vibrant, self-sustaining communities where education, leadership, and collaboration pave the way for lasting social impact.

Charlie Cooper

Front-End Dev

A small river named Duden flows by their place and supplies it with the necessary

Charlie Cooper

Front-End Dev

A small river named Duden flows by their place and supplies it with the necessary regelialia. It is a paradisematic country, in which roasted parts of sentences fly into your mouth. Even the all-powerful Pointing has no control about the blind texts it is an almost orthographic life One day however a small line of blind text by the name of Lorem Ipsum decided to leave for the far World of Grammar. The Big Oxmox advised her not to do so, because