Our Board of Directors

  • Patricia Inonge Mweene Founder & Executive Director

    Patricia Inonge Zita Mweene is the visionary behind INONGE ZITA - a sustainable gemstone company brand based in Copenhagen. Born in Lusaka and raised in Ndola, Zambia, a mining town near the emerald mines of Lufwanyama, Patricia is a leader in promoting local value addition to raw materials at their source. Her innovative framework, "Design Thinking for Extractive Communities," engages extractive communities in Africa to add value to their natural resources, creating economically viable value chains [Read More]

  • Noly Catherine Konoso Board Member

    Noly Catherine Konoso is a figure of meticulous commitment and skill, with over 15 years in her distinguished career as a Senior Personal/Executive Assistant. Her role during Skype's foundational phase, leadership in executive operations across various sectors, and her current versatility as a Virtual Executive Assistant at Prizim Consult have earned her an unparalleled reputation. A graduate from the University of Westminster and board member for Design Thinking Africa, Ms. Konoso's expertise is a true asset to any executive team. [Read More]

  • Kristian Hollmann Board Member

    As a dedicated board member of Design Thinking Africa, Kristian Hollmann brings a unique blend of financial acumen and a profound passion for design. Serving as the CFO of one of the world's largest architectural firms, Kristian possesses a deep understanding of the transformative power of design. Having lived in Zambia, he has firsthand experience of the challenges faced by individuals in mining towns, giving him a genuine insight into the intricacies of African development. [Read More]

  • Michael Thyge Poulsen Board Member

    Michael Poulsen is a seasoned expert in international development with an impeccable academic and professional pedigree, including over 30 years of diverse experience across continents. Holding advanced degrees in Political Science and East Asia Area Studies, his collaborations with renowned organizations like DANIDA, UN agencies, and the World Bank illustrate his pivotal expertise in areas such as Results-Based Management and organizational development. [Read More]

  • Pinsi Lei Board Member

    Pinsi Lei, a distinguished Board Member of Design Thinking Africa, exemplifies the convergence of innovation, empowerment and social impact. As a dynamic marketer and digital consultant, she is devoted to supporting women-led businesses and initiatives that elevate underserved communities. Her mission aligns perfectly with Design Thinking Africa's dedication to nurturing innovation through design thinking in extractive communities, paving the way for sustainable development and growth. [Read More]