2 Little Field Dr
Fredericksburg VA, 22405
programs@jaglobalinstitute.org
Office: +1-703-419-9820
Cell +1-571-337-9185
The Dr. Nina L Meyerhof Leadership Award, established by the Jacobs-Abbey Global Institute for Leadership Studies, is a distinguished recognition given to individuals who have dedicated their lives to bringing about positive social change. This award acknowledges your relentless efforts in the fight against poverty and injustice, and your remarkable accomplishments align with the goals of the Jacobs-Abbey Global Institute for Leadership Studies.
2024 Recipients
Cecilia Naadensua Quarshie
Cecilia Naadensua Quarshie is a pioneering educator and entrepreneur who made history as the first African to establish a professional education school in Finland. Her diverse talents span poetry, writing, cooking, singing, and interior decoration, while her leadership abilities have earned her management and director positions at various Finnish institutions. As a licensed social welfare professional and one of the first English language-trained Experts by Experience in 2024, Cecilia has become an influential figure in Finland's education sector. Her journey exemplifies dedication and perseverance, particularly in breaking barriers for immigrants and women in education and professional development. Cecilia's impact extends beyond her immediate achievements. She has become a role model whose story encourages others to strive for excellence and create positive change in their communities. Her legacy demonstrates how individual determination and educational commitment can transform lives and create lasting social impact.
Ernest Appiah
Ernest Appiah is a distinguished Social Worker and Social Entrepreneur who has dedicated his career to advocating for differently abled children in Ghana. As the driving force behind the ANOPA PROJECT, he transformed a local initiative into a significant NGO that provides comprehensive support and opportunities for children with disabilities. Under his leadership, ANOPA has pioneered innovative programs combining sports, education, and social integration. The organization particularly focuses on para-sports and swimming programs, which have helped numerous children develop physical skills, confidence, and social connections. Appiah's approach emphasizes both individual empowerment and community engagement, working to change societal perceptions of disability while providing practical support. His work has created pathways for differently abled children to participate in mainstream activities and achieve their full potential.
Gabriel Nii Kommey Adams
Gabriel Nii Kommey Adams is an influential NGO management expert, civil rights activist, and political leader based in Cape Coast, Ghana. As founder and Executive Director of New Vision Foundation-International (NVFI), he has implemented sustainable development projects that have empowered over 500 young people across multiple Ghanaian regions and funded tertiary education for nearly 50 students. During the COVID-19 pandemic, his public education initiatives reached over 50,000 people. He also manages G&G Quality Services Company Limited, using half its profits to support NVFI's operations. Currently serving as the Central Regional Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), he is the youngest person to hold this position. Adams holds multiple advanced degrees, including an MSc in NGO Studies and Management. His achievements earned him recognition from the Jacobs-Abbey Global Institute for Leadership Studies (JAGILS) in Virginia, USA, where he now serves as Global Vice President of their Alumni Association. Beyond his professional work, he sponsors three University of Cape Coast students and supports vulnerable children across Ghana.
2023 Recipients
Ama K Bortsie
Ama Bortsie is the current President for the Inspirers Network of the Jacobs-Abbey Global Institute for Leadership Studies. She is a clinical social worker by profession and is the lead clinician at the Children’s Study Home (CSH) in Springfield, MA. Ama is both diligent to her clinical practice and committed to the profession. She has 12 years of experience in as a licensed certified social worker after obtaining her master’s in social work. Ama’s main area of practice is with highly traumatized children and families. She is particularly skilled with girls that have been commercially sexually exploited, the impact it has on development and general life outcome for both the individual girl and their families.
Christopher Dapaah
Christopher Dapaah worked as a volunteer and full time in civil society environment over 20 years and had Graduate and post graduate professional experience. As a social worker and Consultant with keen interest in governance, education, health, women and children , climate as well as advocating on policy and other social development issues Christopher has had engagements with a variety of institutional systems including governance institutions such as government sector ministries, local government authorities, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and other civil society organizations (CSOs) and development partners at local and international levels. He served on various capacities as Ashanti Regional President of Coalition of NGOs in Health, as lead facilitator and advocate on Health policy issues, Vice president of the Ghana NGOs on the rights of the child, A distinguished fellow and President of the International Council on social welfare-ICSW for west and Central Africa region .
Mr. Robert Cook
Robert Cook, born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is a third-generation community activist driven by a deep belief in the significance of family and community. His passion for helping others and spreading positive energy was ignited by a chance encounter with a man distributing toys from a red pickup truck. This encounter motivated Robert to pursue a career dedicated to making a difference, leading him to become involved with Junior Chamber International (JCI) in his quest to find innovative ways to impact his community. Since 2016, Robert has immersed himself in JCI, dedicating extensive time to learning and gaining experience. He has actively held leadership positions at both the local and state levels, often simultaneously serving in multiple roles across different chapters. With the exception of Treasurer, Secretary, and Legal Counsel, Robert has held every position on his state board. His core values include innovation, effective communication, creativity, problem-solving, strategic planning, networking to build strong bonds, and promoting diversity and inclusivity. Recognizing the opportunities and support he received, Robert is committed to passing on his knowledge and energy to the younger generation of Jaycees, fostering active citizenship. Through his unwavering commitment, strategic planning abilities, and dedication to inclusivity, Robert Cook continues to make a significant impact within JCI, various non-profit organizations, and his local community. His tireless efforts serve as an inspiration to others, embodying the spirit of active citizenship.
Vida Osei-Agyemang
Vida Osei-Agyemang is a resilient Ghanaian Urban Development Planner with a passion for creating efficient and sustainable cities. Currently serving as a Senior Development Planning Officer with the Suame Municipal Assembly in Kumasi, she takes the lead in implementing government projects and programs within her municipality. Vida brings extensive expertise in gender mainstreaming, policy development, project and program implementation, monitoring and evaluation, reporting, and general administration. Her exceptional coordination, interpersonal, communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills contribute to her effectiveness in her role. Driven by a strong commitment to personal growth, Vida has pursued higher education to enhance her knowledge and skills. She holds an MBA from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, as well as an MSc degree in Urban Management and Development from Erasmus University in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Throughout her academic journey, Vida showcased her exemplary leadership abilities while serving as the Public Relations Officer for the Student Representative Council (SRC) at the University for Development Studies and as the treasurer for the Graduate Students Association at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). Beyond her professional accomplishments, Vida is a devoted mother of three beautiful girls. She firmly believes in the unique potential of the girl child and strives to help them live their lives to the fullest. Passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable individuals, especially women and young girls, she goes the extra mile to provide training to young girls in schools. Her sessions empower them with knowledge of their rights and responsibilities to their communities, fostering their confidence to advocate for their rights.
Tracye F. Blackwell-Snow
Tracye F. Blackwell-Snow embarked on her modeling journey at the age of 15, kickstarting her career at D&S Modeling agency in North Carolina. Originally from South Carolina, she later relocated to Northern Virginia to pursue opportunities in Celebrity Entertainment, Photography, and multi-media advancement. Her passion for capturing her clients' stories through photography led her to join a Nationwide Studio as a glamour artist. With a relentless dedication to perfection, Tracye quickly garnered praise from both customers and colleagues. Years of hard work and commitment resulted in her successive promotions to Assistant Manager, Senior Assistant Manager, and Store Manager of a prominent 4-camera room studio in Springfield, VA. Throughout her tenure, she fostered a remarkable following of loyal customers and employees. Tracye also played an instrumental role in recruiting and training new associates, supporting the growth and success of the company. Driven by a passion for uplifting others, Tracye gave birth to "The Vision" in June 2000. Through this venture, she empowers organizations to achieve their dreams by bringing professionalism and expertise to their events. Alongside her professional pursuits, Tracye remains committed to furthering her education through The Jacobs-Abbey Global Institute for Leadership Studies. Tracye's dynamic belief centers around the importance of listening to customers. Her approach to demonstrations consistently yields win-win results for vendors and corporations. Encouraging others with her business savvy mindset, she champions unique concepts and encourages individuals to think big or go home when it comes to achieving success and wealth.
Victor Gotevbe
Victor Gotevbe is a Media Professional with over two decades of experience. He is the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Diplomatic Watch Magazine, a premium publication that covers news, analysis, and opinion on global diplomacy, international relations, and foreign policy. He is an emerging figure in the Digital Diplomacy landscape. Victor has played a pivotal role in highlighting the achievements of young Africans and has been recognized for his outstanding contributions. He has also led a team of Journalists on two occasions to China, courtesy of the Chinese Government. His insights have been featured in the global newsletter of the Meridian International Centre. Victor is an alumnus of the prestigious US Government-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program and holds other global fellowships, which have enabled him to foster strong connections with diplomats from influential nations worldwide. He is a visionary leader driven by a deep passion for catalyzing positive change.
2022 Recipients
Sia Finoh- Political activity and Community Leader, PG County District 3 Candidate
Consolee Nishimwe, Author, Motivational speaker, and Genocide Survivor
Isaac Fenyi, cofounder of Youth Steer Foundation
Deborah Derry CEO & the Creative Director of Kraft Hauze Ghana and Red Butterfly Millinery.
Vincent Ocen - Founder and Executive Director for Access to Justice and Equity Foundation (AJEF)
MEKWUYE Margaret Olabisi- Community Development and Social Worker
Kolu Garmai Sokodolo Walters- Executive Director of Kolu Sokodolo Foundation
Kim LaMontagne- President and CEO of Kim LaMontagne, LLC,
2021 Recipients
Stephen Selassie Asuo- General Manager, YALI TV
Joelene Anom Clottey-Executive Director, Project Relief Foundation
Adama Kalokoh- Executive Director, Impact Sierra Leone
Colins Asumadu- Executive Director, Golden Legacy LLC
Susan O. Kodua- Executive Director, Susan O. Kodua Foundation
Nana Yaw Osei-Darwka- Convenor, Green Republic
2019 Recipients
Edith Kaclachie-Banda- Executive Director, Joyce Banda Foundation
Joseph J Yarsiah- Regional Director, Save the Children Inc
Jenkins Macedo- Executive Director, Indeseem Inc
Grace F. Nkudumbantu- Executive Director. African Girls Hope Foundation
