William Nkemson

Executive Director

William Nkemson

Upon meeting William Nkemson, Executive Director of African United Foundation, Inc., you will immediately sense his authentic joy, positive energy, and compassion for people. “I treat others how I want to be treated.  If I was facing their circumstances, what would I want someone to do for me?”  Born and raised in Cameroon, Africa, William moved to the United States when he was 21 years old.  Being from an ‘English’ area within the Southwest Region of Africa, made the transition to the United States somewhat easier. “Moving to Columbus, Ohio, forced me to become 100% self-sufficient. When I arrived, I lived with my Father for 3 months, before I was settling into my own place and finding work.”

In 2012, William entered the U.S. workforce and initially worked at ViaQuest, The Center for Disease Control and Honda of America. William loves to learn, is open-minded, and does not set limitations. While working, he attended ITT Tech, completed a Breakthrough Training Course through Next Level, and earned an Entrepreneurial Certification through a course taught by Sunny Martin.

William began to volunteer in 2015 with Rising Hope Foundation for Change in Africa. I loved the transformations I was witnessing through the assistance we were providing to the children living in orphanages.  William found himself ‘bitten by the Entrepreneurial bug’ and he could not shake his desire to do good for others, be a positive light, and change the world.  “One of my closest friends, who graduated top of his High School Class, could not go on to University in Africa, due to a lack of money.  This left my friend devastated and lost.  Once I witnessed his hopelessness, I was determined to launch a non-profit to support education for children and young adults, ages 18 to 21.”

African United Foundation (AUF) was formed and launched in March of 2018, with a vision ‘To ensure every child and adult in Africa receives the education they deserve.’  William is determined to spread hope and joy, to connect with others, and to impact the African Community.  “The education system in Africa is dismal for children who have lost one/both parents and attend public school.”  Through the launch of AUF, the African Community is supported in 4 ways.  First, through fundraising/donations AUF pays the Tuition to enroll children into the Scottish Bilingual Nursery and Primary School, located in Mutengene, Africa.  The private school is run by the School Director, Rebecca Nahgela Gwaabe who has been in position for 10 years.  Second, by purchasing and distributing basic school supplies to 1000 students throughout the Southwestern Region.  Third, by offering after-school programs for children ages 5 to 10.  The programs are held at various event centers and focus on teaching reading, writing and math, as well as an introduction to computer literacy. About 40% of these students have lost one/both parents and have no means to pay any fees. Therefore, the program costs are paid by AUF. 

Lastly, for young adults ages 18 to 21, vocational training is offered in host cities, located throughout the Southwest Region.  Training is offered 3 times per week for 1 month.  Skills such as Tailoring, Sewing, Cosmetology, Auto Repair and Cabinetry are taught.  “The intention is for young adults to learn marketable trade skills, support themselves and become self-sufficient. Our instructors are paid, yet no tuition or fees are passed along to the students who want to be there and are committed to learning. This is an important determination we make during the application process.” 

William Nkemson’s positive attitude is contagious to the children and to everyone he meets as he shares the vision and mission of African United Foundation.  He realizes that to move forward and expand their student reach, he must remain focused on finding solutions and grateful for those who support his vision.

“Count your blessings, and name them one by one!”
 -William 

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William Nkemson

Executive Director

Christopher Akeibom Toh

President

Henrietta Bettah

Program Director