Message from Our Executive Director

reload

Dr. Ngozi Umezurike

Executive Director

For over a decade, I have witnessed the remarkable resilience and untapped potential within Nigeria's Deaf community. What began as a personal journey—inspired by my Deaf cousin Yagazie—has grown into a movement for systemic change.

At Yagazie Weng Foundation, we believe that silence should never mean invisibility. Every day, we work to dismantle barriers that prevent Deaf individuals from accessing quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Our approach is rooted in collaboration: we listen to the community, amplify their voices, and partner with them to create sustainable solutions.

The challenges are significant, but so is our determination. Through advocacy, education, and empowerment programs, we're creating a Nigeria where Deaf individuals are not just included but celebrated for their unique perspectives and contributions.

"True inclusion happens when we stop trying to make Deaf people fit into a hearing world and start creating a world that works for everyone."

Board of Directors

reload

Prof. Chinedu Okeke

Chairperson

Professor of Special Education, University of Lagos. Over 25 years of experience in inclusive education policy and Deaf advocacy.

reload

Mrs. Amina Mohammed

Vice Chairman

Former Director, National Commission for Persons with Disabilities. Deaf advocate and sign language interpreter for 15+ years.

reload

Dr. Femi Ojo

Treasurer

Chartered Accountant and Finance Director at leading NGO. Ensures financial transparency and accountability in all our projects.

reload

Dr. Chioma Nwosu

Board Member

ENT Specialist at Lagos University Teaching Hospital. Provides medical expertise for our hearing health initiatives.

reload

Barr. Tunde Williams

Board Member

Human Rights Lawyer specializing in disability rights. Leads our legal advocacy and policy reform efforts.

reload

Barr. Tunde Williams

Board Member

Human Rights Lawyer specializing in disability rights. Leads our legal advocacy and policy reform efforts.

Our Dedicated Team

reload

Ibrahim Abdullahi

Program Director

Deaf community leader with 12 years of experience in program development. Fluent in Nigerian Sign Language, American Sign Language, and International Sign.

reload

Grace Okoro

Education Coordinator

Special needs educator with Master's in Deaf Education. Develops inclusive curriculum and teacher training programs across 5 states.

reload

David Chukwu

Advocacy Manager

Former journalist turned disability rights advocate. Leads our media campaigns and government relations efforts.

reload

Fatima Bello

Community Outreach Officer

Born to Deaf parents, she bridges communication gaps. Fluent in 3 Nigerian languages and sign language interpretation.

reload

Fatima Bello

Community Outreach Officer

Born to Deaf parents, she bridges communication gaps. Fluent in 3 Nigerian languages and sign language interpretation.

reload

Fatima Bello

Community Outreach Officer

Born to Deaf parents, she bridges communication gaps. Fluent in 3 Nigerian languages and sign language interpretation.

reload

Our Volunteers

150+ Dedicated Individuals

From sign language interpreters to community mobilizers, our volunteers are the heartbeat of our organization. They contribute over 5,000 hours annually across all 36 states of Nigeria.

Loading...