Leadership
Guided by experience, vision, and dedication
Our Leadership Team
Our organization is led by a diverse team of experts dedicated to fostering global peace and sustainable development through strategic leadership.
H.E. Dr. Andrise Bass, PhD, EdD
Founder Executive Director, Chief of Diplomatic Protocol, Director of Policy and Global Affairs
Dr.Andrise Bass is an expert in diplomacy, public policy, and international leadership, with a strong commitment to promoting peace, human rights, and sustainable development. Originally from Haiti, she has distinguished herself through her dedication to empowering young leaders and encouraging the participation of new generations in global discussions on governance and international cooperation. She is the Founder and President of the Humanitarian Focus Foundation, an organization dedicated to advancing peace, diplomacy, and human development. She also serves as the Executive Director of the Institute of Public Policy and Diplomacy Research (IPPDR), an international organization that provides training, research, and mentorship programs in the fields of public policy, diplomacy, and leadership. Through her initiatives, Andrise Bass has helped create opportunities for young people from around the world to engage in international forums related to the United Nations. Her work focuses on strengthening the capacities of young professionals and students so they can actively contribute to building more just, inclusive, and peaceful societies. As a speaker and mentor, she regularly participates in international programs and events addressing diplomacy, global governance, leadership, and the Sustainable Development Goals. Andrise Bass holds a multidisciplinary academic background, including studies in criminal justice, business administration, and organizational leadership, enabling her to approach political and social challenges from both strategic and humanitarian perspectives. Through her work, she pursues a clear mission: to cultivate a new generation of leaders capable of promoting peace, international cooperation, and social progress worldwide.
Carlos Manuel Pérez González
Director of Legal Affairs and Education, LLM
A distinguished lawyer and community leader who embodies the values of service, education, good governance, and policies that benefit the people. Carlos Manuel Perez Gonzalez is a distinguished lawyer and community leader who embodies the values of service, education, good governance, and policies that benefit the people. With his dynamic and professional approach, he has made significant contributions in various domains throughout his career. Carlos’s extensive experience in drug control and prevention has equipped him with invaluable expertise. He has held prominent roles such as Community Counsellor and Regional Director for the Southern Region of Drug Prevention at the National Directorate for Drugs Control. His commitment to combating drug-related issues led him to assume the responsibilities of a Demand Reduction Prevention Technician and, subsequently, the Director of the National Drug Council, South Region of the Dominican Republic. Furthermore, Carlos is a fervent advocate for human rights, particularly in advocating for the rights of the migrant community. His background as a lawyer specialising in human rights enables him to provide essential support and guidance to those in need, championing their rights and ensuring their well-being. Carlos’s dedication to education for all is evident in his continuous efforts to promote knowledge and understanding. He actively utilises his expertise and training acquired through collaborations with esteemed organisations such as UNITAR, OEA, CICAD, the Department of State’s International Narcotics and Law Enforcement of the United States, and the Colombo Plan. By sharing his knowledge and empowering individuals, Carlos aspires to create a society where peace and harmony prevail, enabling everyone to fulfil their purpose. As the co-founder and President of the Institute of Public Policy & Diplomacy Research, Carlos demonstrates exemplary leadership, striving to foster good governance and implement policies that prioritise the needs and well-being of the people. He envisions an environment where education, public service, and effective policies synergise to uplift communities and drive positive change. Through his vast experience, remarkable academic achievements, and unwavering commitment to serving his community, Carlos Manuel Perez Gonzalez continues to be a dynamic and influential leader, pivotal in shaping a brighter future for the Dominican Republic and beyond.
Dr. Mecca Nelson
Veteran Affairs Advisor
Dr Mecca Nelson is an Army Gold Star Spouse, nationally respected veteran advocate, and government relations leader advancing policy-informed, trauma-responsive systems for veterans and military-connected families. Following the combat death of her husband, U.S. Army Sergeant Mario Nelson, in Iraq in 2006, transformed personal loss into sustained public service and systems-level advocacy. Dr Nelson collaborates with the New York City Department of Veterans’ Services, the Brooklyn .District Attorney’s Office, and the Department of Education to expand trauma-informed support, reentry programming, and economic empowerment initiatives. She also provides trauma-informed care, mindfulness training, and wellness programming across diverse organisations, including the NYPD, group homes, youth programs, and community-based Organisations serving young adults and families. Dr Nelson is Founder and CEO of Mecca’s City of Wholeness, an award-winning, MWBE-certified health and wellness enterprise delivering trauma-informed mental health, mindfulness, and parent engagement services across schools, government agencies, and veteran-serving environments. She is also the founder of Humble Haitian Warrior Inc., a nonprofit advancing advocacy, healing, and public awareness for Veterans, Gold Star, White Star, Silver Sta, and military families. A National Board Certified Christian Counsellor and Chaplain, she serves as a Global Peacemaker.e Ambassador aligned with United Nations peacebuilding principles and is an Ambassador.r, Spokesperson and Newsletter Contributor for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. She is also an Ambassador for the Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) and Vice Chair of the Veteran Advisory Board for the New York City Council. As an alumna of Syracuse University’s IVMF programs (EBV-F and V-WISE), Bunker Labs, the Maxwell School of Citizenship, and Public Affairs Veterans Program for Politics and Civic Engagement, and the Florida State University Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship, Dr Nelson brings a strong foundation in public policy analysis, veteran entrepreneurship, diplomacy, and civic leadership to board service. Her leadership has been recognised with multiple citations and proclamations from the U.S. Senators, New York City Council Members, and state and city veterans commissioners. She is a two-time best-selling author, national speaker, and recipient of the Honoured Women of Service forthe America Award, the Dare to Be Different Award, and the Faithpreneur Legacy Pearl Award for her impact in veteran advocacy, civic engagement, and community wellness. For the past 31⁄2 years, Dr Nelson has been providing strategic government relations services, working alongside elected officials, House representatives, political leaders, and U.S. Senators to implement impactful policy change, improve community systems, and create sustainable programs for veterans, military families, and underserved populations. “Through service, advocacy, and heart-centred leadership, we transform personal loss into lasting impact for communities and generations to come.”
Dr.Bruno Mpondo-Epo
Director of Peace and Negotiation
Dr. Bruno MPONDO EPO spent over 30 years of his career with the United Nations, working on international peace and security. He has been involved in policy matters related to Africa as Deputy Director for Africa (West and Sahel, Central, East and Horn, Southern) in the Department of Political Affairs (DPA). Furthermore, his field experience covered every peace operation across the African continent, and as a Director of Political Affairs and Special Advisor to Heads of Mission, he dealt with Political Mediation, Peace negotiations, Conflict prevention and transformation, Quiet Diplomacy, Terrorism and Transnational Organised Crime, among others. Driven by a desire to share his experience, Dr Bruno MPONDO EPO is a Visiting Professor at several institutions, including the Peacekeeping School in Mali, the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre in Ghana, the War College in Mauritania, Mali, and Cameroon. Dr Bruno Mpondo Epo is also a political strategist with proven experience in political communication, public policy development, and social governance.
Dr. Ash Pachauri
Climate and Environmental Advisory Board Member
Dr. Ash Pachauri is a globally recognized behavioral scientist, author, and sustainable development strategist with 20+ years of experience advancing climate action, youth leadership, and public health worldwide. He is Co-Founder and Director of the POP Movement, Treasurer of the World Sustainable Development Forum, and Advisory Board Member of the Climate Leadership Coalition. Dr. Pachauri has led major programs with the UN, WHO, and the Gates Foundation across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, and has authored over 60 international publications. Honored with awards including the Oxford Union Society’s Mind Health Global Ambassador Award, the GlobalMindEd Inclusive Leader Award, and recognition as a Top International Speaker 2025, he is committed to empowering youth and integrating behavioral science into climate action for a sustainable future. He has received an Honorary Doctorate from Maharishi International University, as well as multiple international academic awards for excellence
Isaac Bayoh
Youth Engagement/Strategic Advisor /Peacebuilding and Negotiation Architecture
Isaac Sheku Bayoh serves as Strategic Advisor on Peacebuilding & Negotiation Architecture at the Institute for Public Policy and Diplomacy Research. A Sierra Leonean diplomat, youth policy strategist, and global advocate for inclusive governance, Bayoh has played a pivotal role in advancing the Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) agenda within multilateral diplomacy. He previously served as Youth Representative of the Republic of Sierra Leone to the United Nations, where he contributed to shaping global dialogue on youth participation in peacebuilding and governance, including Sierra Leone’s leadership during its tenure on the UN Security Council and the advancement of UN Security Council Resolution 2807 on Youth, Peace and Security. Bayoh’s work bridges grassroots mobilization and high-level diplomacy. Through his advisory role, he supports the development of innovative negotiation frameworks, youth-inclusive peace processes, and institutional architecture that strengthens conflict prevention and sustainable peace. He has collaborated with governments, UN agencies, civil society networks, and youth-led movements to advance policy solutions that center young people as partners in peacebuilding rather than passive beneficiaries. He holds academic training in global management and diplomacy from Arizona State University’s Barrett Honors College and the Thunderbird School of Global Management, where his research focused on Sierra Leone’s leadership in norm entrepreneurship within the Youth, Peace and Security agenda. Bayoh continues to champion intergenerational leadership, strategic diplomacy, and policy innovation to build more inclusive and resilient societies.
Dr. Maria Soccor
Director of Women Affairs, Actress, Producer, Writer , and Award winning director
Dr.Maria Tucci, d/b/a/ Maria Soccor, is an advocate for women in the workforce, for green productions, and mentors young adults in the film community. As the founder of Maria Soccor Productions, she oversees a full-service production company while maintaining an active career as an actress and filmmaker. Her professional memberships include Film Fatales, SAG-AFTRA, AEA, New York Women in Film and Television (NYWIFT), and the Alliance of Women Directors (AWD). After serving as the former Director of Media for a private school at NJCU, she now serves on the board of Educate The Block in Hudson County, New Jersey. During this time, she spearheaded The Reintegration Program at Hudson County Correctional Facility, developed by former NJ Governor Jim McGreevy, under the leadership of Alycea Nightingale. She is currently serving on the Board of the Miss Caricom International Foundation, and is a member of the New Jersey Chapter of Beyond Bedtime. As an actress, producer, writer, and award-winning director, she is recognised for her documentary feature films that explore pop culture and socially relevant content. She earned 13 international awards, including Best Director for her feature documentary, Lords of BSV, atthee 2015 Madrid International Film Festival. Her current projects include directing the feature documentaries Freestyle Music: The Legacy, Tillie, and Sybil In Her Own Words. Soccor’s recent accolades include: 2025 The Global Luminary in Film & Media Award presented by UNGA80; 2020 Hell's Kitchen NYC Festival Female Filmmaker of the Year; and Best Director for "KICKS." Her work has reached prestigious global platforms, including the Venice International Film Festival, where she produced the first VR theatrical play LOVESEAT, and the Cannes Film Festival. In 2025, she developed REEL Women with her friend and publicist, Jane Owen, to mentor women in the workforcewhot desire to tell their stories behind the lens. This launched at The Campari Lounge at Mostra 82 and is now an annual event for women attending major film festivals throughout the world.
Dr.Elizabeth Wellington
Human Rights Expert and Advisory Board Member, Fundraising and Resource Mobilization, Consulting Business
Dr Elizabeth Wellington is a seasoned executive, entrepreneur, and public servant with over a A decade of leadership experience across business development, transportation, public administration, and civil rights advocacy. She currently serves as President of Wellie Business Consulting and Vice President of Wellie the Transporter, LLC, where she provides strategic oversight, operational leadership, and sustainable growth planning. DDrWellington also serves as the Trial Coordinator for the Nassau County Commission on Human Rights, advancing equity, compliance, and community-centred justice initiatives. As DAs eputy Director of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, she strengthens minority owned enterprises through policy engagement, economic development strategy, and cross-sector partnerships. Her governance experience includes serving as the 1st Vice President of the Executive Board Alumni Association of Nassau Community College, along with a prior directorship role in nonprofit and community-based organisations. She brings expertise in strategic planning, financial oversight, stakeholder engagement, organisational leadership, and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Dr Welling holds a PPhDin Business Administration, an MPA with specialisations in Human. Resources and Management Operations, and a B.S. in Criminal Justice. She is a licensed Director through the New York State Department of Education and certified in Community Leadership and Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt.
Rev. Emmanuel Agyemfra
Spiritual Leader and Ethical Advisor, Fundraising and Resource Mobilization
Rev. Emmanuel Agyemfra is the Lead Pastor of Leonia United Methodist Church in Leonia, New Jersey. Before taking this role, Rev. Emmanuel has served other United States congregations, including the Browns Mills United Methodist Church from 2021 to 2024. Reverend Emmanuel is a humanitarian who ha impacted countless lives across the globe. He graduated with MDiv, Master of Divinity, from Princeton Theological Seminary andis currently a Doctor of Ministry candidate in Transformational Leadership at Boston University. Reverend Emmanuel has extensive ministry experience spanning about 20 years across Africa, Asia and now in the United States. He continues to serve various communities and the global community. Rev. Emmanuel serves on the Mayor’s Advisory Committee on Race and Equity in Leonia, New Jersey. He is also a member of the Board of Global Ministries of Greater New Jersey United Methodists. He serves as an Leadership Coach and Instructor for the Leadership School of Ministry and Mission at the All Nations Church, New Jersey. Reverend Emmanuel Agyemfra recently co- hosted the premier International Peace Gala in New Jersey in 2025, which brought together diplomats humanitarians, professionals from various sectors including business arts and fashion.
Shaykh Safraz Bacchus
Spiritual Leader and Ethical Advisor
Imam Safraz Bacchus is a distinguished faith leader who has served the New York City community for over thirteen years. He currently holds the position of Imam and Scholar-in-Residence at Masjid al-Abidin in Queens, New York. His dedicated service, combined with extensive chaplaincy work alongside New York City’s diverse faith leaders, healthcare institutions, law enforcement agencies, and elected officials, has earned him widespread recognition and respect. Imam Bacchus serves as a trusted community partner with the New York City Police Department, particularly the 106th Precinct, and is a graduate of the Citizen Police Academy Program. He is also an active member of the Clergy Advisory Council for Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, contributing faith-based insight to community safety and justice initiatives. Born in Guyana, Imam Bacchus developed an early passion for Islamic law and theology. In 1993, he was awarded a full scholarship by the Government of Egypt, in collaboration with the Government of Guyana, to study Islamic Jurisprudence, Arabic, and Theology at Al-Azhar University in Cairo. After completing his studies in 2004, he returned to Guyana and joined the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) as a religious educator, where he played a key role in poverty alleviation efforts and the coordination of orphan care programs. Before migrating to the United States in 2013, Imam Bacchus became a well-known public figure in Guyana, hosting a popular weekly television program that addressed spiritual, social, and national issues. In 2015, he earned a Master’s Degree in Islamic Studies from the American Open University in the United States. His thesis, “Towards a Faith-Based Understanding of Environmental Ethics,” examined the intersection of faith, stewardship, and environmental responsibility. He later completed four units of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) through Northwell Health and currently serves as a chaplain at two major healthcare facilities in Queens. In response to the ongoing mental health crisis, Imam Bacchus provides spiritual and emotional support to individuals facing mental health challenges across New York City. Working closely with patients, families, and healthcare professionals, he promotes holistic healing that integrates faith, compassion, and emotional well-being. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Imam Bacchus offered critical spiritual and emotional support to grieving families while coordinating food and meal distributions for elderly and vulnerable community members. His humanitarian efforts extend beyond the United States. Imam Bacchus continues to coordinate relief initiatives for underserved communities in Senegal, Gambia, and other West African nations, as well as in his native Guyana. These initiatives include school supply distributions, food assistance, and essential humanitarian aid. In recognition of his lifelong service, Imam Bacchus received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Office of the President of the United States in 2002. His work addressing gun violence through interfaith collaboration has also earned special recognition from the City of New York and the NYPD’s 106th Precinct. In 2023, the New York State Assembly passed Resolution 785, awarding him the Lincoln-King Visionary Award for his unwavering commitment to service and community building. In February 2024, Imam Bacchus was honoured with the opportunity to deliver the invocation at the opening session of the New York State Assembly, as well as at the inauguration of Governor Kathy Hochul, the 57th Governor of New York. In addition to his religious and civic leadership, Imam Safraz Bacchus is a Certified Life Coach. In 2026, he launched a podcast dedicated to life coaching, inner healing, social cohesion, peace advocacy, and confronting hate crimes, blending spiritual wisdom with contemporary coaching tools to empower individuals and strengthen communities. Widely respected for his empathetic and compassionate leadership, Imam Safraz Bacchus remains a passionate advocate for peace, interfaith dialogue, mental wellness, and religious harmony.
Dr. Muralindran Mariappan
Wellness and Human Development Advisor
Professor Ir. Dr Muralindran Mariappan is a distinguished scholar, technologist, and humanitarian leader whose work bridges advanced engineering with spiritual intelligence. With more than three decades of academic, professional, and service experience, he represents a rare synthesis of scientific innovation and human-centred development. A Professor in Robotics and Intelligent Systems and Head of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Professor Muralindran is also a registered Professional Engineer and a Master Lead Trainer in Robotics and Psycho Spiritual Development. His academic and professional contributions have positioned him at the forefront of intelligent systems research, artificial intelligence integration, and tetechnology-drivenocietal advancement. Beyond academia, Professor Muralindran has demonstrated an enduring commitment to humanitarian and global youth development. He serves as Co-Founder of INTERACT, a global youth empowerment initiative dedicated to cultivating ethical leadership, resilience, and cross-cultural collaboration. In addition, he represents the Brahma Kumaris in Civil Society engagements at the United Nations, contributing to international dialogue on peacebuilding, sustainable development, and inner transformation as foundations for global stability. Recognised for his unique dual perspective as both technologist and spiritual guide, Professor Muralindran advances a model of leadership that integrates artificial intelligence, innovation, and ethical consciousness. He regularly collaborates with governments, educational institutions, and civil society organisations worldwide, sharing insights on the responsible use of emerging technologies alongside meditation, mind management, and values-based leadership. Driven by the conviction that peace, wisdom, and resilience are inherent human capacities, he has mentored and inspired thousands of young leaders across diverse regions. His work emphasises holistic development, empowering individuals and communities to navigate complex global challenges with clarity, integrity, and compassion. Professor Muralindran continues to champion a future in which technological progress is harmonised with ethical responsibility and spiritual awareness, fostering sustainable societies grounded in peace and human dignity.
Dr. Johann Richardson
Education Board Member, Philanthropist
Dr Johann Richardson, PhD, is a distinguished community advocate, social. entrepreneur and nonprofit executive dedicated to empowering individuals and strengthening families within underserved communities. As the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Carl David Richardson Foundation, Inc., she leads.s mission-driven initiatives focused on early childhood development, family advocacy, conflict resolution, and community empowerment. DrDrichardson also spearheads the Women Helping Women Empowerment. nt Group is a transformative initiative designed to support women through mentorship, education, shared experiences, and access to essential resources. The program provides a safe and affirming space where women are encouraged to heal, grow, and achieve both personal and professional development. With over two decades of experience in early childhood development and human services, Dr Richardson has dedicated her career to supporting families of children with special needs. She began her educational journey at Fitz Henley. College in Jamaica, where she earned a degree in Human Services, gaining a strong foundation in social systems and cultural dynamics affecting family well-being being. She later continued her studies at Marymount Manhattan College in New York. York, earning a degree in Early Childhood Development with aconcentrationo.nInin Management, Care, and Philosophy, in February 2025, Dr Richardson earned her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Human Services from Harvest Christian University (Dallas, TX). Her advanced studies further strengthened her leadership, research, and program development expertise, enabling her to design responsive, trauma-informed, and community-centred initiatives. Professionally, DrDrichardson has spent many years working directly with families through the New York City Early Intervention Program, a public initiative serving children from birth to age three with developmental delays or disabilities. In this capacity, she has coordinated assessments, facilitated referrals, supported families in navigating insurance and service systems, and ensured access to comprehensive resources that empower parents to advocate effectively for their children. Her commitment to service extends beyond her professional roles. Dr. Richardson has volunteered with organisations such as the New York Blood Centre and LiveOnNY, contributing to efforts that improve health outcomes and quality of life for vulnerable populations. These experiences have deepened her understanding of systemic challenges faced by families and reinforced her dedication to meaningful, sustainable community impact. As Founder and CEO of the Carl David Richardson Foundation, Dr Richardson leads initiatives that bridge service gaps and build long-term support networks for families navigating early childhood development challenges. She is especially passionate about collaboration, believing strongly in the power of community partnerships to ensure families are not isolated in their journeys. DDrRichardson is also a conflict resolution program developer and facilitator, integrating emotional intelligence, active listening, cultural awareness, and crisis negotiation strategies to address real-life challenges faced by individuals and families. Her work is guided by the belief that empowerment begins with understanding, communication, and compassion. A passionate speaker and advocate, DrDrichardson engages in public speaking and outreach efforts to raise awareness about early intervention, family support systems, and the critical role of caregivers in society. Inspired by the mission of Women Helping Women, she remains committed to uplifting women, honouring experiences, and encouraging resilience through shared stories and collective strength. Through her leadership, advocacy, and personal dedication, DrDrohann Richardson continues to advance equity, healing, and empowerment, working toward a more inclusive and supportive society where every family, and every The child has the opportunity to thrive.
Dr.Syed Sibtain Haider
Board Advisor, Spiritual Coach
Dr.Syed Sibtain Haider “Zaidi” is the visionary founder of the Abjad Quantum Model (AQM), a groundbreaking framework that integrates the classical Arabic letter-number tradition with modern science. His pioneering work transforms ancient symbolic knowledge into practical tools for today’s most pressing needs in education, health, and peacebuilding. Through AQM, Zaidi has introduced innovative applications, including accessible diagnostics, sound-based healing protocols, and decision-making models, designed to address challenges such as anxiety, unemployment, and conflict in vulnerable communities. A respected humanitarian, peace ambassador, and philanthropist, Zaidi’s global impact lies in making complex cultural heritage both relevant and usable for contemporary challenges. He works with educators to design open learning courses, with clinicians to pilot holistic stress-reduction techniques, and with youth networks to build career-mapping systems and ethical leadership training programs. His efforts advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG-16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) and SDG-17 (Partnerships for the Goals). By bridging tradition with science, Zaidi demonstrates how local wisdom can ignite global innovation. His mission is to empower communities to heal, learn, and prosper with dignity, while fostering a culture of peace, justice, and shared humanity.
Sherly Boisrond
Community and Human Development Advisor
Ambassador Sherly G. Boisrond is a Global Peace Ambassador, spiritual diplomat, human rights advocate, and humanitarian leader advancing peace, dignity, justice, and sustainable development. As President and CEO of Society in Action, Inc., she leads initiatives in health equity, education, women’s empowerment, and community development. Her work bridges diplomacy, media, and strategic partnerships to amplify underserved voices and build resilient communities worldwide.