Archibald Annan
Co-FounderArchibald Annan's Passion for Africa Fuels Walisha Foundation
Archibald “Archie” Annan co-founded the Walisha Foundation on the strength of an exciting capstone project he completed while pursuing his Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree at Cornell University and his passion for empowering African communities.
Born in Ghana, Archie survived the devastating 1983 drought that ravaged crops and livestock, leaving many villages and urban towns, including the capital city, gripped by starvation. This early brush with hunger shaped his worldview about food insecurity across Africa. In 2022, Archie was alarmed to see global supply chain disruptions caused by the Russia – Ukraine war threaten the affordability of staple food imports for millions of Africans and the almost absolute reliance on Europe for the import and consumption of grains. He realized the continent’s vulnerability to external shocks required systemic changes to strengthen food security.
The academic and professional pedigree Archie brings to Walisha cannot be overstated. He completed his undergraduate training in Banking and Finance at Central University, excelled through Cornell University’s rigorous systemic approach to problem-solving with an emphasis on international economic development, and more than two decades of experience in the corporate world, which has given him an understanding of how to navigate complex
challenges at the intersection of public policy, business, and sustainability – a skill honed through high-level roles in banking, telecoms, and electronics.
Most importantly, Archie brings heart and humanity rooted in his lived experience of hardship during the 1983 drought. He is intimately aware of how poverty and hunger can ravage communities when resilience falters. This profound empathy fuels his advocacy of justice and empowerment for marginalized groups – the bedrock upon which Walisha’s mission is built.
Samantha Corkern
Co-FounderChampioning Agricultural Empowerment: Samantha Corkern and Walisha Foundation
Samantha “Sam” Corkern co-founded the Walisha Foundation after learning about Archie’s capstone while earning her MPA alongside him at Cornell University and the real potential to create lasting change by providing capable individuals the tools needed to succeed.
Born in rural Colorado to a long line of farmers, ranchers, and stewards of the land, Sam was raised with a deep respect and understanding of the challenges presented by that way of life and the crucial role that adequate resources play in determining the difference between a prosperous and a disastrous harvest. Sam has been involved in agriculture in a number of ways since she was a small child, participating in local 4-H clubs and even serving as President of her club when she was old enough. Her involvement in a large youth-based organization focused on agriculture and developing skills for the next generation has reinforced in her a strong belief that people of all ages can overcome immense challenges if they are provided with the adequate tools and support to do so. She believes that the alarming challenges facing Africans as a result of global supply chain disruptions arethe type that can be solved, at least partially, by equipping African farmers with the right tools and support systems.
Beyond her background as a participant in youth agriculture associations, Sam brings with her a diverse academic and professional background. She has completed her undergraduate degrees in Business Administration and Human Services, allowing her to develop a deep understanding of the intersection of profits and people. Later, she graduated with honors from Cornell University while focusing on the intersection of international migration and job training programs. In addition to her academic coursework, Sam has a diverse professional background, having worked in local governments, the legal field, international NGOs, and small tech start-ups, all of which have provided her with a well-rounded view of the interplay of challenges involving public, private, and non-profit sectors.
However, the immense belief in the strength and resilience of individuals and the passion for seeing communities succeed are among the most important qualities Sam brings to Walisha. She knows the plight of the farmer and understands the importance of ensuring that they are never overlooked.
Eric Niyigena
AgriTech AssociateEric Niyigena - AgriTech Associate
Taryn Hubbard
Special Projects SupportTaryn Hubbard - Special Projects Support
Paidamoyo Mudangwe
Operations SupportPaidamoyo Mudangwe - Operations Support
Paidamoyo Mudangwe is a policy and research professional with expertise in international development and social impact evaluation. She holds a Master of Public Administration from Cornell University’s Brooks School of Public Policy and a Bachelor of Commerce in Law from Monash University. Her recent work includes leading impact evaluation research for the Global Livingston Institute in Uganda and contributing to land tenure policy initiatives at Landesa. At the Southern African Institute for Policy and Research, she conducted vital research on child marriage in Southern Africa, demonstrating her commitment to addressing critical social issues. Paidamoyo brings strong analytical skills, cross-cultural expertise, and a dedication to creating meaningful social change through evidence-based approaches.
