Nadia Ajavon, a native of Lome, Togo, who migrated to the United States in October 1998, brings over 13 years of extensive hospitality management experience to her professional journey. Progressing from a hotel operator to the role of Director of Operations for one of the biggest hotel chains, Nadia underwent a significant career transition into Information Technology, focusing primarily on software development, particularly in Salesforce. She pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Systems Management and served as a Business Analyst, Scrum Master, and most recently, a Project Manager.

 

In 2019, driven by a profound passion for aiding those in need, Nadia assumed the role of Board Member and Treasurer in a nonprofit organization with a mission to combat extreme poverty, address educational disparities, and tackle social injustice. The organization held various events, including charity fundraisers, healthcare center initiatives, community outreach programs, and networking events, among others. Her remarkable contributions earned her awards, affirming her commitment to making a positive impact. Dedicated to giving back to the community and serving others, this experience became instrumental in discovering her life's purpose.

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Following the dissolution of the nonprofit organization in the subsequent year due to the challenges posed by COVID and other factors, Nadia, alongside co-founder Akua, embarked on a new venture. Together, they established the nonprofit organization "Heavy Crown" with the mission to empower women aged 25-45 in underprivileged communities in Africa and globally. Nadia believes that her life's purpose is to pay it forward through this initiative, embodying a commitment to uplift and make a lasting impact on the lives of women around the world.

Akua Nti is a native of Accra, Ghana, who migrated to the United States in 1992. She pursued a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology at East Carolina University, where her passion for bringing students of the diaspora together led to the co-founding of the African Students’ Organization. Throughout her studies, she served on the Executive Board, holding positions such as Secretary, Vice President, and ultimately President in 2008 during her final year.

 

After years of fast-paced leadership in an Exercise Science & Holistic Wellness career, Akua transitioned into Information Technology while managing a Corporate Wellness Center that needed to expand its online presence. In this role, she supported employees in various wellness facilities and led the development and implementation of cutting-edge wellness technology used all over the United States.

 

During her IT Project Management journey, Akua has gained experience in various software, medical device, and edtech industries that aim to positively influence the lives of individuals and communities.  With a continued commitment to wellness, lifelong learning, and community advancement, Akua reignited her passion for organizational leadership and philanthropy through “Heavy Crown”.

 

Together with founder Nadia, she developed Heavy Crown Nonprofit, an initiative dedicated to empowering women aged 25-45 in underprivileged communities in Africa and globally. Akua’s dedication to giving back, coupled with her acquired knowledge and experiences is channeled into this initiative with the aim of empowering women and fostering positive change on a global scale.