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
Administrative SupportEric Niyigena - Administrative Assistant at Walisha Foundation
Taryn Hubbard
Social Media ManagerTaryn Hubbard - Social Media Manager
Joselyne Ishimwe
Programs ConsultantJoselyne Ishimwe:An Agricultural Innovator and Youth Entrepreneurial Leader in Rwanda
Joselyne is a dynamic force in Rwanda’s agricultural sector, bringing a wealth of entrepreneurial leadership experience and a deep understanding of the local context to her role at Walisha. With a proven track record of driving innovation and impact, Joselyne’s expertise spans across agriculture, education, and non-profit sectors.
As the founder of Kamonyi Chili Farm Ltd. (KCF), Joselyne led the growth and successful export of high-quality vegetables and roots, elevating the international reputation of the company. Her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to empowering communities led her to collaborate with teenage mothers, increasing the supply of premium chilis to meet international export standards. Joselyne’s innovative approach and business acumen earned her start-up prize money from the prestigious Tony Elumelu Foundation, recognizing her potential to drive transformative change in the agricultural sector.
Joselyne’s impact extends beyond her own venture. Through her work with the CARL Group Ltd., she has been instrumental in organizing and facilitating training materials for smallholder farmers of Orange Sweet Potatoes. Her ability to secure funds and grants has facilitated the expansion of business operations and ensured financial sustainability. Joselyne’s collaboration with government officials to provide basic financial literacy training to farmers demonstrates her commitment to empowering local communities and fostering sustainable growth.
In addition to her agricultural expertise, Joselyne brings extensive leadership and management experience from the non-profit sector. As a Mentor and Project Manager at Mothering Across Continents, she spearheaded operations for Mentoring Mwiko and Pivot Academic, mentoring and coaching a diverse group of high school scholars from vulnerable families. Her innovative approach led to the initiation of the science camp “Pivot Academy” in Ruhango district, showcasing her ability to develop and implement impactful educational initiatives.
Joselyne’s experience in the education sector, including her current roles at Southern New Hampshire University, has honed her skills in program development, quality assurance, and data-driven decision-making. Her ability to design and implement robust admission processes, craft effective teaching and learning approaches, and develop comprehensive student support systems demonstrates her commitment to driving excellence in education.
With her deep understanding of the Rwandan context and her ability to navigate complex stakeholder relationships, Joselyne brings invaluable local knowledge and networks to Walisha. Her experience in collaborating with government officials, partnering with organizations like SustechforAfrica, and engaging with smallholder farmers positions her as a key asset in advancing Walisha’s mission.
Joselyne’s entrepreneurial leadership, innovative mindset, and extensive experience in agriculture, education, and non-profit sectors will aid to drive Walisha’s work forward. Her ability to identify opportunities, develop strategic partnerships, and implement impactful initiatives will be instrumental in advancing Walisha’s goals and creating sustainable change in Rwanda’s agricultural landscape.
Salomon Uwimana
Extension Services CoordinatorSalomon Uwimana:Extension Services Coordinator
Salomon Uwimana brings a wealth of experience in agricultural development and community engagement to his role as Extension Services Coordinator at Walisha Foundation. With a Bachelor of Science in Rural Development from the University of Rwanda, Salomon has demonstrated a strong commitment to empowering farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
As the co-founder and legal representative of HingAMAFARANGA Rwanda, Salomon has spearheaded innovative initiatives that bridge the gap between farmers, students, and researchers. His work includes organizing weekly agro-talk radio shows, implementing agroforestry projects, and facilitating monthly symposiums that bring together over 200 farmers with students and lecturers to discuss critical agricultural topics.
Salomon’s expertise extends to project management, having led efforts such as the “Rwanda in Fruits” initiative, which aims to plant over 10,000 fruit seedlings in urban areas by 2024. His experience in coordinating with international organizations, including Rotary International, showcases his ability to foster partnerships and mobilize resources for impactful agricultural projects.
At Walisha, Salomon leverages his skills in agricultural extension, leadership, and community mobilization to enhance our outreach and capacity-building programs. His proficiency in data analytics and geospatial techniques in land productivity monitoring adds a valuable technical dimension to our extension services.
Salomon’s passion for youth empowerment and agricultural innovation aligns perfectly with Walisha’s mission to transform grain value chains in East Africa. His multifaceted background, combining grassroots engagement with academic expertise, positions him as a key asset in our efforts to empower smallholder farmers and promote sustainable agricultural development.