Royal African Society appoints Stella Okuzu as interim director
The Royal African Society (RAS) has appointed Stella Okuzu as its new Interim Director, ushering in a new era of leadership for the century-old institution dedicated to advancing Africa’s global role.
Founded in 1901, the Society remains one of the UK’s most respected platforms for dialogue, policy advocacy, cultural programming, and educational outreach on Africa. With this appointment, the organization signals its commitment to amplifying African enterprise and fostering stronger global partnerships.
A leader in finance and development
Okuzu brings over two decades of experience across Africa, the UK, and Europe. She is the Founder and CEO of EDD Finance & Consulting Limited, where she has supported businesses in capital raising, cross-border growth, and market entry, with a focus on financial inclusion in emerging markets.
Her career includes serving as Head of Personal & Business Banking at FCMB Bank (UK) Ltd, where she launched Africa-focused financial products for SMEs and high-net-worth clients. She also holds board responsibilities as a Non-Executive Director of FastCredit Limited, where she chairs the Audit & Risk Committee and contributes to digital finance strategy.
Okuzu’s influence extends into education and thought leadership. She lectured on Global Strategy & Sustainability at BPP University, London, mentored international students, and is co-authoring the forthcoming textbook Fintech for Management. Her work has earned global recognition, including being named among the Top 200 Voices in Leadership to Watch (2022) by LeadersHum and honored by the Mayor of London in 2023 as one of the Women Who Make London Great.
Strengthening RAS’s global role
In her remarks, Okuzu called the appointment a privilege, adding:
“Africa stands at the intersection of extraordinary challenges and opportunities—from digital innovation and entrepreneurship to sustainability and cultural exchange. My vision is to strengthen the Society’s role as a bridge between Africa and the rest of the world, amplifying African voices, ideas, and enterprises on the global stage.”
RAS Chair Arunma Oteh praised Okuzu’s blend of financial expertise and strategic vision, saying she is ideally positioned to lead the Society in advancing Africa’s growth and inclusion.
The Society also thanked Andrew Skipper MBE, who steps down after enhancing RAS’s platform and influence. Under his leadership, the organization strengthened its reputation as a leading voice for Africa in the UK and beyond.
With Okuzu at the helm, the Royal African Society continues to build on its legacy of cultural, political, and economic engagement while ensuring it remains a beacon of collaboration between Africa and the world.
