Nana Aluma Master in Business Administration Founder & President
is originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo. She moved to the U.S. 9 years ago with her 11-year-old daughter, living initially in the Vive La Casa Shelter. Realizing her home-country degree was not recognized in the U.S., she quickly took steps to support her family by earning her High School Equivalency, then pursued an associate degree at Erie Community College. She later transferred to Canisius University, earning a bachelor’s in international business and an MBA. Now a financial analyst in the banking industry, Nana has dedicated herself to mentoring and supporting fellow immigrants and refugees in Buffalo, having overcome significant challenges as a single mother in a new country.
Daniella Biloko\Chief & Coordinator of International Communication
moved to Italy in 2014. She studied at the University of Bologna in international relations and works now as a manager in the real estate sector. During her time in Italy she has held various roles with non-profit organizations as an educator and assisting refugees in Europe. She has been an advocate for women and children were mistreated and victims of domestic abuse.
Evelyn Kessler\Member & Advisor
Evelyn Kessler has built a career in banking, currently serving as Senior Vice President, Senior Sustainability Analyst, at M&T Bank. In 2016, she founded International Child Advancement (ICA) to empower underprivileged children toward self-sufficiency, while also bridging the gap between refugee and immigrant communities and essential financial resources. Leading a team of dedicated volunteers, Evelyn continues to impact the lives of children in Buffalo, NY and the Democratic Republic of Congo through education, vocational training, and mentoring.