Abeingo Awards - 2024 Recipients
Dr. Henry Ojambo, LLB, PhD
Dr. Henry Ojambo completed his Bachelor of Laws, LLB, from the University of Dar es Salaam before joining the University of Toronto on a commonwealth scholarship for his
masters. Upon completion of his masters, Dr. Ojambo was awarded a University of
Toronto scholarship to pursue a doctorate in juridical science (S.J.D.) which he completed in about 3 years and was subsequently retained on a postdoctoral fellowship by the university.
Dr. Ojambo subsequently joined the School of Law, Makerere University, as a professor of law, before returning to Canada only to learn that he had spent so many years being educated without much learning. Dr. Ojambo consequently embarked on a learning journey which culminated in the call to Bar of Ontario. Notably, Dr. Ojambo is also a member of the Bar of East Africa and enjoys both academia and legal practice, each of which is used as a tool for serving community as the primary purpose.
Dr. Ojambo is the proprietor of Ojambo Law Office and is happily married and blessed with two daughters.
Gabriel Werunga (Gebu)
Gebu is the interim President of AFC Leopards Toronto Branch. Gebu has also been very active in both the Kenyan community and Abeingo Association activities in Canada.
Having lived in Canada for over 18 years, Gebu is a passionate mentor dedicated to empowering youth immigrants as they navigate new environments and opportunities. Gebu believes in the power of mentorship to inspire confidence and resilience. In Abeingo association Gebu provides guidance, resources, and a listening ear to help youth immigrants overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Gebu’s approach is centered on cultural sensitivity and inclusivity, ensuring that each young person feels valued and understood.
In addition to mentorship, Gebu is actively involved in community outreach and advocacy efforts, working to raise awareness about the unique experiences of immigrant youth. Having worked for over 8 years with an NGO that helps newcomers integrate into the job market through skills training as well as advise on educational pathways and career opportunities, Gebu focuses on helping young people build a strong foundation for their futures.
As an accountant, Gebu volunteers his spare time providing accounting services to community organizations and is always looking for new ways to engage with and uplift
the community. He strives to blend professional expertise with a commitment to service, creating a brighter future for all.
John Mulwa
John Mulwa, a Kenyan community leader based in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, is recognized as a key figure in the community. As current President of Sauti Yetu Organization, he has provided leadership and has played a vital role in fostering unity and support among African immigrants and residents. SAUTI YETU is dedicated to ensuring the success of newcomers, helping them integrate smoothly into Canadian society, and providing platforms for them to excel.
John Mulwa’s biggest dream is to empower the African community in Canada by creating sustainable opportunities for African men and newcomers to find meaningful employment, settle comfortably, and thrive in their new environment. He envisions a future where these individuals are fully integrated and successful in Canadian society, drawing on their diverse skills and experiences to contribute positively to the country’s growth.
Besides his community service, John is an accomplished Chef who provides culinary services to many community events.
Phoebe Kagumba-Sibanda
Phoebe Kagumba-Sibanda is a life member of the Kenyan Community in Ontario (KCO), where she serves on the Board of Directors as Secretary.
A holder of a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) and a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce, she has received several certifications over the years in her career. Phoebe is a consultant, with one of the major Banks in Canada.
She is also a Certified Life and Executive Coach. When not at work in the corporate world, Phoebe serves community through her leadership role in the Kenyan Community in Ontario (KCO), and as a community mentor. She has served as an Elections Commissioner and Chief Returning Officer with KCO, and was an integral part of the KCO Interim Committee appointed in February 2022 to revamp the Kenyan Community in Ontario (KCO) to what it is today.
As a member of the Lions Clubs International, Phoebe has served as a three (3) time President of Mississauga Cooksville Lions Club where she serves community. She has undertaken and led various outreach projects that serve the underrepresented members of Community. She most recently coordinated a symposium, on mental health and its impact on the underrepresented communities. Phoebe is a cabinet member of the 2024/25 Lions International District A711, where she serves as the District Global Service Team (GST) Coordinator.
Phoebe is passionate to see newcomers, in particular the youth, and young adults, aspire to greater heights in Canada. This was her inspiration when she initiated the Kenya Community High School Forum (14 to 17 years), and the KCO Young Adults Forum (18-30 years) under the Kenyan Community in Ontario (KCO) social platforms in November 2023, where the respective memberships have opportunity to engage with their peers on matters that are common to them.
Aligning to the role played by older folks in our communities, each forum has “aunts and uncles” who are available as support/mentors as the need arises.
She has served on the Community of Peel, Peoples Panel, sponsored by the Tamarack Institute, where she has played a role in approving of grants to community non- government organizations. Phoebe has received several recognition awards for her community service.
An avid traveler, Phoebe enjoys reading, swimming and social interaction with individuals from different walks of life.