Patoranking named first UNDP Regional Goodwill Ambassador for Africa

Patrick Nnaemeka Okorie, known as Patoranking, has been appointed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Africa as a Regional Goodwill Ambassador. Over the next two years, Patoranking will focus on youth innovation, enterprise development, the timbuktoo initiative to build Africa’s innovation ecosystem, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Patoranking expressed his commitment to empowering African youth with the necessary tools, resources, and opportunities. He aims to support initiatives that can significantly impact development through innovation and technology driven by the continent’s young population.

Patoranking’s rise from adversity to success serves as an inspiration to many. Despite facing significant financial challenges, he has dedicated himself to giving back. He actively fosters entrepreneurial leaders and creates educational opportunities for underprivileged students. In 2020, he established the African Leadership University (ALU) Patoranking Scholarship, providing ten fully paid scholarships for students across Africa to attend ALU in Rwanda and Mauritius. He is finalizing the next batch of scholarships, offering three-year degrees. In May 2024, he launched the Patoranking Foundation Tech Scholarships in partnership with ALX Africa, aiming to provide half-a-million-dollar scholarships to empower 40 young talents with cutting-edge technology education and career-ready training.

Ms. Ahunna Eziakonwa, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Director of the UNDP Regional Bureau for Africa, highlighted the importance of creatives in Africa’s evolving narrative. She welcomed Patoranking’s role as the UNDP Regional Goodwill Ambassador for Africa, emphasizing his potential to advocate for and create opportunities for others.

As the Regional Goodwill Ambassador, Patoranking will use his influence to advocate for the attainment of SDGs in Africa, mobilize youth towards sustainable investment, and inspire innovative action. He will also advocate for the timbuktoo initiative, which includes ten thematic vertical Hubs in various African cities and timbuktoo University Innovation Pods (UniPods) across the continent. His advocacy is expected to be pivotal in investing in, nurturing, and building an African youth innovation ecosystem.

Patoranking’s appointment was announced by the UNDP Regional Director for Africa, Ms. Ahunna Eziakonna, during the launch of the timbuktoo fintech hub in Lagos.

Source: ghmediahub