About Us
About UK Africa Trade Expo (UKATE) & Our Team
The UK Africa Trade Expo (UKATE) is a premier platform dedicated to fostering international trade, investment, and innovation between the United Kingdom and Africa. UKATE serves as a catalyst for economic growth, bridging the gap between African entrepreneurs, UK investors, and global stakeholders to drive impactful trade relations.
Through high-level networking events, strategic investment forums, and expert-led discussions, UKATE provides businesses with the tools and connections to expand into new markets, develop cross-border partnerships, and stay ahead of emerging industry trends. The Expo is built on three core pillars:
Connectivity
Creating meaningful partnerships that drive trade, investment, business expansion and human capital growth.
Innovation
Showcasing groundbreaking solutions and technological advancements shaping the future of industries.
Collaboration
Encouraging cross-border cooperation to tackle global challenges and foster economic empowerment.
With thousands of attendees from across industries and high-level participation from government officials, investors, and business leaders, UKATE stands out as the leading platform for UK-Africa trade relations.
Prince Kamari Ademiluyi
International Economic Advisor Founder & Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Prince Kamari Ademiluyi is the great-grandson of His Royal Highness King Ajagun Lawarikan Ademiluyi, the esteemed 48th King of the ancient Ile-Ife Kingdom in Osun State, South-West Nigeria (1910–1930). Rooted in a rich royal heritage and guided by a modern global outlook, he serves as the International Economic Advisor to the Royal Family and Kingdom of Ile-Ife, advancing international trade, investment, and strategic economic partnerships on behalf of the Throne of Oduduwa.
In his role as International Economic Advisor, Prince Kamari works at the intersection of diplomacy, commerce, and development, supporting cross-border investment initiatives, advising on global economic strategy, mobilising capital for high-impact sectors, and fostering relationships with governments, investors, multilateral institutions, and private enterprises across the UK, Africa, and beyond. His mandate includes championing youth and women-led economic empowerment, innovation-driven growth, and sustainable development aligned with long-term national and regional priorities.
Prince Kamari is also the Founder of the UK Africa Trade Expo (UKATE), a leading international platform dedicated to strengthening UK–Africa trade and investment relations. Under his leadership, UKATE has evolved into a trusted ecosystem that connects vetted African businesses and projects with global investors, promotes innovation, facilitates joint ventures, and delivers actionable outcomes across sectors, including technology, energy, infrastructure, agriculture, finance, and the creative industries.
A sought-after speaker and thought leader, Prince Kamari regularly addresses global audiences on Africa–UK trade, investment readiness, technology, leadership, and economic diplomacy. His recent speaking engagements include an address at Middlesex University London, where he received a Certificate of Appreciation after delivering a speech to the students and entrepreneurs as part of the TIME CUBE Innovation and Entrepreneurship programme, inspiring the next generation to think globally, lead with purpose, and unlock opportunity through innovation and cross-border collaboration. He also speaks at industry summits, investor forums, universities, and private roundtables, bridging policy, business, and purpose.
Across all his work, Prince Kamari is driven by a clear and enduring mission:
Advancing Humanity in Africa through trade, investment, innovation, and meaningful global partnerships.
Click the links below to find genuine Royal Blue-Blood references to the Ile-Ife Kingdom, Osun State Royal bloodline.
HRM Queen Aderonke Ademiluyi - Ogunwusi
Co-Founder & Strategic Advisor
A globally recognized lawyer, author, entrepreneur, and cultural ambassador, HRM Queen Aderonke Ademiluyi – Ogunwusi brings her expertise in branding, international business, and cultural diplomacy to UKATE. As the founder of African Fashion Week London, Nigeria, and Brazil, the Queen plays a pivotal role in promoting African businesses, cultural heritage, and investment opportunities to international markets.
Prince Adebolu (CJ) Ademiluyi
Chief Operating Officer (COO)
As the Chief Operating Officer of UKATE, Prince CJ Ademiluyi plays a critical role in overseeing strategic operations, logistics, and business execution. With a background in corporate leadership and business management, CJ ensures the Expo runs efficiently, delivering maximum value to exhibitors, investors, and attendees. His expertise in business development and operational strategy ensures that UKATE continues to expand and evolve as the leading UK-Africa trade platform.
Princess Bukola Adelekan - Okiji
Project Director & Consultant for UK Africa Trade Expo (UKATE)
Princess Bukola is an accomplished project director, consultant, and strategic leader with a wealth of experience in business management, international trade, and organizational excellence. As the Project Director & Consultant for the UK Africa Trade Expo (UKATE), she plays a pivotal role in overseeing the planning, execution, and successful delivery of UKATE’s initiatives, ensuring seamless coordination between stakeholders, exhibitors, and global partners.
With an extensive background in project management and a track record of driving high-impact initiatives, Princess Bukola is instrumental in shaping UKATE’s strategic vision and operational framework. Her expertise spans event planning, business development, and stakeholder engagement, making her a key driver in fostering UK-Africa trade collaborations.
Beyond UKATE, she is a recognised leader in project management education, training, and mentorship, equipping professionals and businesses with the knowledge and skills to excel in dynamic global markets. With her keen insight and leadership, UKATE continues to thrive as a premier platform for trade, investment, and innovation between the UK and Africa.
Esra Powell
Strategic Consultant for uK Africa Trade Expo
Esra Powell is a Strategic Consultant for the UK Africa Trade Expo (UKATE), where she focuses on fostering partnerships, driving business growth, and connecting investors with high-impact projects across Africa and the UK. With a background in creative direction and strategic development, Esra combines innovative thinking with practical execution to help businesses scale and attract meaningful investment. Her work with UKATE reflects her passion for international collaboration and creating sustainable economic opportunities through trade and innovation.
Contact:
Tel: 020 8050 7523
Esra@ukafricatradexpo.co.uk
Rudi Page
Special Adviser to the International Economic Advisor - Prince Kamari Ademiluyi
Rudi Page is a highly respected expert in business leadership, trade facilitation, and community engagement. As a Special Adviser to UKATE, he provides strategic insights into trade development, diaspora engagement, and international business collaborations. His work ensures that UKATE remains impactful and inclusive, benefiting both large enterprises and SMEs across Africa and the UK.
Anna-Marie Benedict
Public Relations & Press Director
Anna Marie leads UKATE’s public relations, media engagement, and press communications. She works closely with international media outlets, business publications, and government agencies to maximize UKATE’s visibility. Through strategic storytelling, media partnerships, and high-impact press coverage, she ensures UKATE remains at the forefront of global trade conversations.
Ayo Ojerinola
Specialist in Fintech, Payment Solutions & Digital Transformation | UK-Africa Financial Services Leader
With over 14 years of experience in the financial services industry, Ayo is a seasoned expert in fintech, payment solutions and digital transformation. His career spans global institutions including IBM, Mastercard, and Deutsche Bank, where he played pivotal roles in driving innovation and operational excellence across complex financial ecosystems.
Ayo previously led breakthrough product development initiatives at Lloyds Banking Group, delivering cutting-edge solutions that enhanced customer experience and accelerated digital adoption. His work consistently bridges strategic vision with technical execution, enabling financial institutions to navigate and thrive in the digital economy.
A passionate advocate for inclusive finance and cross-border collaboration, Ayo brings deep market insight and a commitment to building sustainable financial infrastructure between the UK and Africa.
Viola Edward
Global Ambassador for UK Africa Trade Expo
CEO/Co-Founder: GRIT Academy.
Partner: Creative Women Platform, AFWL for Latin America & MENA Region, Circular Fashion & E-Learning startups.
Co-founder & president Global Mentoring Network, Honorary President: Charity on Wheels, Fashion for a Cause, Multi-awarded leader, mentor, humanitarian. Strategic Connector.
Transcultural Psychotherapist, Board Member, Philantropic, Ambassador for Human Rights & Gender Equity.
Co-Creator: BQ-Breath Intelligence, GRIT Method, Management by Emotions.
Lead trainer: Breathwork, Mentoring, Holistic Business Consultancy.
Author of 2 books and Co-author of 22 more.
Holistic business Consultant, Strategic Mentor, Psychotherapist & & breathwork Trainer. Involved in the wellness industry for 35 years globally.
Mr Charles Bassey
Digital Marketing Director
Mr Charles Bassey is the Digital Director at UKATE, leading the organization’s digital transformation and overseeing the UKATE Magazine. With a strong background in digital strategy and content development, he drives innovation across UKATE’s digital platforms, ensuring seamless engagement and impactful storytelling. His expertise in digitalization helps elevate UKATE’s mission, connecting businesses and audiences through cutting-edge digital solutions.
Jade Fletcher
Events & Production Manager
Jade is responsible for the seamless execution of UKATE’s high-powered business events, elite trade summits, and exclusive peer-to-peer investor forums. With a sharp eye for detail and a deep understanding of both event management and business development, she curates bespoke experiences that align with the expectations of global leaders and ultra-high-net-worth individuals.
Her role extends beyond the boardroom – overseeing luxury travel logistics, including first-class and private jet bookings, five-star accommodations, and even yacht charters for select VIPs. Jade ensures every UKATE engagement is not only strategically impactful, but also delivers a premium lifestyle experience that reflects the calibre of its attendees and stakeholders.
Patrick Asuama
Head Of Operations for Africa
Patrick drives strategic initiatives that connect investors and business leaders with Africa’s rapidly evolving markets.
He is also the Co-Founder of Bridgepay, a cross-border payments platform, and NIMOPA, a pioneering gold and commodity transaction platform, championing secure and efficient financial ecosystems across the continent.
Patrick brings a proven track record of results across sectors, including Fintech, Automotive, Healthcare Technology, and Startups. He currently serves as Director of Projects & Conference Execution for the Women in Africa for Transformation Initiative and the Future Women Conference / Africa Woman of the Year Awards.
Patrick holds an MBA from Haroun Education Ventures in the USA and is currently pursuing a second MBA in Strategic Management from Babcock University.
Contact:
+234 806 276 8265
patrickasuama@gmail.com
Mission work: At UKATE we are Building Bridges, Creating Opportunities, Transforming Futures! 🚀
