Karine Sokpoh
Chief Executive Officer
402 Legal
Karine Sokpoh
PresidentMs. Karine Egbemimo Sokpoh, is the visionary founder and CEO of the Midlands African Chamber. Her remarkable journey encompasses law, advocacy, and community empowerment, reflecting a career marked by excellence and service.
Ms. Sokpoh embodies a commitment to advancing global trade, legal expertise, and inclusive entrepreneurship. As the driving force behind 402Legal, Ms. Sokpoh has established a legacy of excellence in immigration, international law, and corporate matters. She brings a wealth of academic accomplishments to her role, holding a bachelor’s degree in business management from the University of Lomé in Togo, West Africa, and a Bachelor of General Studies in Communications with a minor in Women's Studies from the University of Nebraska Omaha.
Ms. Sokpoh obtained her Juris Doctor, Magna Cum Laude, from Creighton University School of Law, with a Certificate of Concentration in International and Comparative Law.Her accolades speak volumes about her contributions, including the Judge Elizabeth D. Pittman Award for Excellence in Legal Service (2024), the Inclusive Leadership Award from African Immigrant Family Services (2023), the African American Leadership Award in Business from the Urban League of Nebraska (2023), and the Reisman Award by Clio (2022), among others.
As the founder and CEO of the Midlands African Chamber, Inc., Ms. Sokpoh has championed diversity and entrepreneurship in Nebraska's business landscape. Her leadership extends beyond boardrooms, as she actively serves on the Global Partners in Hope Advisory Board and as president of the MAC Foundation board, driving impactful change and fostering economic growth.
Fluent in French, English, and Mina, Ms. Sokpoh’s linguistic versatility enhances her advocacy efforts, facilitating communication and representation for clients from diverse backgrounds. Her passion for empowerment and entrepreneurship is further evident in her role as a motivational speaker and esteemed law instructor, where she imparts wisdom on topics ranging from women and girls’ issues to business and immigration law.
Ms. Karine Sokpoh’s multifaceted contributions exemplify her unwavering dedication to community service, legal excellence, and fostering inclusive growth. As a beacon of leadership and advocacy, she continues to inspire positive change and elevate the voices of underrepresented communities in Nebraska and beyond.
Fidele Mienso
Chief Operating Officer
Nouvelle Beautée, LLC
Fidele Mienso
Chief Operating OfficerCurrently serving as the COO at the Midlands African Chamber, Fidèle Mienso, brings a wealth of experience, leadership and passion for community advancement to her new role. As COO, she will continue to drive our mission of empowering African and African American businesses in the Midwest.
Originally from Togo in West Africa, Fidele attained her Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. With a robust background in administrative roles, including positions at UNMC as an Administrative Assistant and as a Community Health Advocate at CHI Health, she has cultivated a keen understanding of organizational operations and community engagement.
Fidèle stands as a distinguished community leader, leveraging over a decade of experience at the helm of her business, Nouvelle Beautée, where she serves as CEO. Her tenure as a seasoned entrepreneur underscores her exceptional leadership acumen and strategic vision. Through Nouvelle Beautée, Fidèle has not only established herself as a trailblazer in the beauty industry but also as a dedicated advocate for community empowerment and engagement.
With her unwavering commitment to excellence and a profound understanding of community dynamics, Fidèle embodies the essence of effective leadership. Her ability to navigate complex challenges and drive impactful initiatives has earned her widespread recognition as a respected figure within her community and beyond.
Laban Njuguna
Board Co-Chair
Zabuni Specialty Coffee
Laban Njuguna
Board Co-ChairLaban Njuguna has joined the board of the Midlands African Chamber, as its new Board Co-Chair. Laban is a dynamic and results-driven business leader with robust experience launching successful business ventures while continually striving to give back to local and international communities. Originally from Kenya, Laban is the Founder of Zabuni Specialty Coffee and a State of Nebraska Commissioner for African American Affairs.
He is able to leverage exceptional technical, decision-making, and communication skills to spearhead high-profile projects and deliver stellar results within strict deadlines. In his previous roles, he was recognized as a visionary leader who focused on making the world a better place, one experience at a time.
LaTricia Harris
Board Co-Chair
Hayes & Associates, LLC
LaTricia Harris
Board Co-ChairLaTricia Harris has joined the board of the Midlands African Chamber, as its new Board Co-Chair. LaTricia Harris is currently the Senior Manager of Operations, HR, and Recruitment at Hayes & Associates, LLC, a minority-owned CPA firm. She holds a management degree and has over ten years of experience in the banking industry and thirteen years of rail transportation experience. She firmly believes she is most successful when she finds a way to accomplish her goals while helping others along the way.
Ishmael Samuel
Secretary
Paragon
Ishmael Samuel
SecretaryIshmael Samuel grew up in Omaha, Nebraska after he moved here as a Sudanese refugee when he was three years old. He is the co-founder and CTO of Los Angeles-based startup, Paragon which recently raised a $13 million Series A round after being founded in 2019. Ishmael and his co-founder Brandon Foo were honored in 2021's Forbes 30 Under 30.
An engineer, executive, and entrepreneur, Samuel’s mission is to use technology to build a better, more equitable world. The software products he has built, have been used by millions of people, raised millions in venture funding, made millions in revenue, and include multiple acquisitions. His customers include Uber, Universal Studios, and dozens of other startups, corporations, and non-profits.
He joined the MAC Board in January 2024 and is the current Secretary and Chair of the Pitch Black Committee.
Philipe Bruce
VP of advocacy
The Bloc
Philipe Bruce
VP of advocacyPhilipe (Phil) Bruce, is a skilled cybersecurity professional and the visionary founder of The Bloc, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of seniors and youth in Omaha and Lincoln. As a published author, Phil has shared his expertise in Organizational Management as an instructor at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, in collaboration with the Nebraska Business Development Center. His passion for meaningful connections is evident in his work. Phil's extensive knowledge in International Business Law and advocacy further defines his multifaceted career. In his leisure time, Phil enjoys the strategic world of chess as an amateur player, reflecting his analytical and thoughtful approach to both professional and personal pursuits.
Dr. Martin Williams
VP of Strategic Planning
Martin Williams International
Dr. Martin Williams
VP of Strategic PlanningDr. Martin L. Williams is a distinguished leader, global speaker, and visionary in personal development, real estate, and community empowerment. With a Master’s in Leisure Sports Management and a Doctorate in Biblical Studies, he has made significant contributions to Omaha’s economy as a real estate developer, notably transforming a former Walmart into "The Embassy Center," a multi-business hub.
A published author, Dr. Williams writes transformative books on spiritual awakening and leadership, empowering individuals to break through limitations. He serves as Chairman of the Omaha Innovation Connection Hub, co-owns the Carver Legacy Center, is president of Martin Williams International, and founded the Global Leadership Network (GLN) to mentor leaders worldwide.
Folly Gnininvi
VP of Fundraising
Cox
Folly Gnininvi
VP of FundraisingFolly Gnininvi is a Technical Operations Engineer at Cox. Beyond his professional expertise, Folly finds joy in immersing himself in literature, and when he's not engrossed in a good read, Folly cherishes the moments spent with his loved ones, prioritizing quality time with his family. Serving as an ID&E Culture Program Manager at Cox, he passionately works to foster a culture of unity and acceptance across the company. Folly's dedication to his work, love for literature, commitment to family, and advocacy for diversity and inclusion truly define him as a multifaceted individual making a positive impact in both his professional and personal spheres.
Martine Quartey
VP of Membership
Radio personality, best-selling author, entrepreneur, and speaker
Martine Quartey
VP of MembershipMartine Quartey is our new VP of membership. She is a radio personality, best-selling author, entrepreneur, and speaker, who partners with small business owners, authors, and community leaders to help them gain exposure for their businesses. She has landed coverage in print and broadcast outlets, including 95.7 FM THE BOSS, KPAO Public Access Cable TV, the Omaha World-Herald, and the Omaha Star Newspaper.
Taylor Johnson
VP of Marketing
WOWT
Taylor Johnson
VP of MarketingOriginally from the DMV area, Taylor Johnson is an Omaha-based anchor and reporter, a public speaker, and a mentor to undergraduate journalism students.
Johnson has experience as an anchor/reporter at WOWT News, morning reporter at KCTV5 News in Kansas City, anchor/reporter for WTWO in Terre Haute, Indiana, and digital content producer at ABC13 News in Lynchburg, Virginia.
Taylor graduated from the University of Maryland College Park, earning her B.A. in Broadcast Journalism in 2015.
Euloge Sekle
Treasurer
Bank of America
Euloge Sekle
TreasurerEuloge Sekle is a distinguished professional originally from Togo, West Africa, where he completed his high school education and pursued college studies in pre-law and anthropology. He later transitioned to the United States to continue his academic journey, earning a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a focus on Marketing from Bellevue University.
With extensive experience in banking, Euloge has played a pivotal role in supporting small businesses, particularly through his work with Wells Fargo Bank. Currently, he holds the position of Market Financial Center Manager for Consumer and Small Business Banking at Bank of America.
Euloge is a passionate advocate for community involvement and volunteering, recognizing the transformative power of giving back. As a strong supporter of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), he believes that diversity should be celebrated as a strength, not a source of division. He has served on numerous boards and is currently the treasurer for the Midlands African Chamber of Commerce. Euloge also chaired the Chamber’s Pitch-Black competition in Omaha, Nebraska, a key initiative aimed at providing visibility, advocacy, and opportunities to minority-owned businesses.
In addition, Euloge has contributed to various statewide initiatives, including serving as a member of the Diversity and Inclusion Council for BLUPRINT Nebraska, a statewide project focused on shaping impactful legislation for Nebraska's future economic prosperity.In addition, Euloge has contributed to various statewide initiatives, including serving as a member of the Diversity and Inclusion Council for BLUPRINT Nebraska, a statewide project focused on shaping impactful legislation for Nebraska's future economic prosperity.
A strong proponent of financial literacy, Euloge is committed to advancing financial equity, believing that it can be achieved by one community and one school at a time. He has actively engaged in financial literacy education by presenting at high schools and community colleges throughout the region.
Euloge is also a passionate champion for entrepreneurship and advocates for improved access to capital for minority-owned businesses. He has coached and judged numerous entrepreneurship and pitch competitions, including those hosted by No More Empty Pots, the University of Nebraska Omaha Center for Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Franchising, as well as the Midlands African Chamber’s Pitch-Black competition.
Luper Akough
Member at Large
Clout Enterprises
Luper Akough
Member at LargeLuper Akough, first generation Nigerian American is the Co-Founder of Clout Enterprises, Principal Agent at Sommelier Insurance Group, Owner of Refined Properties & Owner/ Master Franchiser at Anago Cleaning Systems. He started his entrepreneurial adventure at 12 years of age: “Dope Lawn Care Services” was the name. He then expanded his business by helping local friends make money alongside him. In that, he was able to grow his lawn contracts. When Luper became of adult age, he knew entrepreneurship is where he belonged. He had a passion to help others that wanted to help themselves. Luper pivoted to a new industry and has spent the past 12 years working for a few of the top Property & Casualty Companies in the nation and has truly found a home as an independent insurance agent and co-founder of Sommelier Insurance Group..
Luper was able to grow his agency to over 1400 households in 12 short years with word of mouth advertising. Over the years, Luper grew an interest in Real Estate, so he started another company in which he bought, sold, and held real estate property. Luper owns Logistics Company with 125 employees running 50 trucks daily. He was recently a 2022 Next Pioneer Fellow with the Nebraska Start- Up Collaborative, 2019 fellow participant with Leadership Omaha, 2017 40 Under 40 Award by the Midland’s Business Journal & a 2016 New Leaders Council of NE Alumni. He currently serves on the following boards: Omaha Chamber of Commerce, Aksarben Floor Committee, Chair of the American National Bank of Omaha Emerging Leaders Advisory Board, Midlands African Chamber of Commerce & Carver Bank of Omaha. He enjoys traveling, trying new cuisine, and spending time with family and friends.
Ali Husain
Member at Large
Bank of America
Ali Husain
Member at LargeAli Husain is the Consumer Banking Market Leader for Bank of America in Omaha. Ali has been in banking for 10 years and is responsible for serving clients, associates and the community in the Omaha market.
Ali was born and raised in Pakistan and is a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a bachelor’s degree in Finance (Banking & Financial Institutions). Ali is currently enrolled at Boise State University for MBA and will be graduating in December 2023. He currently lives in Omaha with his wife Omema and two children.
Toyi Jack Beguedou
Member at Large
Beguedou Insurance Services LLC
Toyi Jack Beguedou
Member at LargeMillennial entrepreneur, WSET ii Spirits expert, and content creative Toyi “Jack” Beguedou is building community through his spirited digital platform , the Hood Sommelier. Jack is a native of Togo in West Africa who currently resides in Omaha, Nebraska and is a proud “girl-dad” to his daughter Brennan.
Jack is the co-host of YouTube web series MONDAY SUCKS, founder of the trending, TRUTH IS BARREL PROOF PODCAST, SCOTCH SCHOOL education series , AFROFUSION food and spirits pairing series and owner of BEGUEDOU INSURANCE SERVICES LLC.
As a native French speaking immigrant, Jack resonates with the importance of creating community. His thoughtful and inspiring approach to content development focuses on humanizing the spirited consumer journey experience. Jack enjoys being an educational resource to both consumers and talent in the hospitality community. A community architect at heart, Jack bridges the gap between curious consumers at every level and brands through empowerment and engagement. He applies this philosophy both in the insurance and the spirits world.
John Ouedraogo
Member at Large
eXp Realty
John Ouedraogo
Member at LargeMeet John Ouedraogo, a distinguished member of the Midlands African Chamber's board. With a rich background as a United States Armed Forces veteran and a licensed real estate professional, John brings decades of invaluable experience spanning both the US and West African markets.
John holds a Bachelor’s degree in Intelligence and International Security from Bellevue University of Nebraska, and a Master’s degree in Political Science and Business Law from the University of Ouagadougou. Committed to community enrichment, John has dedicated himself to giving back and bringing value to his surroundings.
Having served in the Nebraska Army National Guard until 2019, John's military journey cultivated his leadership and discipline, seamlessly integrating Army values into his personal and professional ethos.
Currently, John serves as the President of the Association of Burkinabe in Nebraska, demonstrating his profound commitment to community leadership.
As a Licensed Real Estate Agent at eXp Realty and the proud owner of Johnow Enterprises LLC, a thriving real estate investment firm, John's entrepreneurial endeavors flourish. He has spearheaded fleximmobf.com, an innovative real estate platform facilitating residential and commercial property transactions in Burkina Faso, underscoring his dedication to global business ventures and community development.
Gary Hein
Member at Large
National Sales Trainer
Gary Hein
Member at LargeWith over 30 years of experience in sales, management, and business development within the pharmaceutical and medical device industries, Gary has consistently been a top performer, launching first-to-market products and securing major contracts. Known for strong clinical expertise and relationship management, Gary has led successful initiatives, such as the launch of an ACO that saved BCBS Nebraska millions in its first year.
As a National Sales Trainer, Gary excels in mentoring and driving team performance. Now, Gary is eager to leverage his skills in business development to contribute to the growth of the community as a member of the MAC Board.
Terence Ross
Member at Large
JPMorgan Chase
Terence Ross
Member at LargeTerence Ross is a Business Relationship Manager at Chase Bank in Omaha, Nebraska, with over a decade of experience in banking, including 8 years dedicated to supporting and empowering business clients. Before joining JPMorgan Chase, he spent 9 years at Wells Fargo, honing his expertise in financial services. Terence holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Outside of his professional role, Terence is deeply committed to community service, serving as a mentor with 100 Black Men of Omaha and as a youth football coach at South Omaha Athletics for the past 7 years, where he has inspired young athletes.
The husband to Mikayla and proud father to Liliana (11) and Isaac (7), Terence is passionate about fostering success in others. Guided by his belief that “it takes a village to thrive,” he strives to be a part of that village, offering personal and financial support to help individuals and communities achieve their goals.