Trade Envoys

Dr. Donald J. Lewis

Donald has over 40 years’ experience working with the Chinese in academia, business and government advising international law firms, investment banks, and multinational corporations on Chinese trade, investment, and arbitration matters.

A SOAS graduate, he was a law professor at University of Hong Kong, Faculty of Law, for 23 years where he liaised with Mainland China and Hong Kong influencers, building an extensive “guanxi” network in Greater China, whilst also teaching and conducting research on China trade and investment law and China-related dispute resolution at HKU and later at Stanford Law School.

Donald has specialist knowledge of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), on which he has published extensively. He advises international law firms, investment banks, and multinational corporations on Chinese trade, investment, and arbitration matters.

He maintains connections in many cities in China, such as Beijing, Tianjin, Qingdao, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, as well as with national ministries (China Ministry of Commerce and China Ministry of Foreign Affairs), the courts (China Supreme People’s Court), and leading trade and investment arbitration institutions (CIETAC, HKIAC).

Donald is proficient in Mandarin Chinese.

Dr. Ayobami Oyedare

Ayobami currently serves as the Executive Chairman of the Royal African Chambers of Commerce and Industry, which offers an exceptional platform for young businesses across Africa to engage in trade, establish cross-border businesses, and promote policies that support sustainable intra-Africa trade and investment. In addition to this role, he oversees the Ooni of Ife Global Outreach (OIGO), an international organization established by His Imperial Majesty. As the Chief Executive of OIGO, Ayobami utilizes his extensive experience in strategic planning to oversee business development, trade partnerships, investment opportunities, and policy advocacy fostering international collaborations and advancing global outreach initiatives.

With a career spanning two decades, Ayobami is recognized for his leadership in transnational education and professional engagements. He is adept at promoting exceptional leadership, transnational capacity development, nurturing Africa's workforce of the future, and driving initiatives that contribute to youths’ development, community economic growth, and entrepreneurial culture in Africa. Known for his interdisciplinary approach and institutional networking, Ayobami excels at providing professional engagements for institutions that seek to articulate their strategic plans clearly and insightfully.

Ayobami earned a bachelor’s degree in business management from the University of Sunderland in the United Kingdom.

Nick Patrick

Nick Patrick has worked in the international trade environment for 42 years, having spent many years in the chemical sector. He focuses on practical solutions to opportunities, problems and international business development in all aspects of export / import-based issues.

His focus has been visiting factories, agents and distributers all over the world to improve production techniques, commercial contracts and agent/distributer management. He has managed businesses in the UK, South Africa, Iran, France, Germany, Spain, Italy and Portugal.

Nick has a passion to ensure companies understand their responsibilities as importers/exporters of record and consequences of non-compliance, especially in the post Brexit era and the continually increasing regulatory demands involved with shipping goods across international borders.

Serving as international director at the Sheffield Chamber of Commerce, In recent years he has focused on helping companies develop efficient, cost effective and compliant with import /export procedures designed to make the process easier.

Nick is well connected on a global scale and will be able to offer comprehensive advice and assistance.

Najla El Mangoush

Najla is a diplomat and lawyer. She has extensive expertise in the Middle East & North African region, developing a professional understanding of Trade and Diplomacy systems. She is currently a member of the Arab Investment Company, so able to provide strategic guidance to complex economic and trade related issues that arise within the MENA region.

Najla has considerable professional background working as a consultant for institutions such as Al Amana Centre, Development Alternatives (DAI), and the Arab Human Rights Fund, as well as other roles such the Head of Public Engagement Unit at the National Transitional Council (NTC). She was a Fulbright Scholar (2013-15) and has received an MA in Conflict Transformation from the Center for Justice and Peace-building (CJP) at Eastern Mennonite University.

She was named in the BBC 100 Women 2021 list for her role as Libya’s first female foreign minister and impressive success at building links with civil society organisations and In 2022 received the International Women of Courage Award from the United States Department of State. Najla is fluent in English and a native Arabic speaker.

Wei Li

A native Chinese and with 30 years working experience in the medical, food and beverages, investment, alongside luxury brands such as Bvlgari. Wei has good links with China government of Provinces and prefecture level cities, including different levels of chambers of commerce and bureaus of commerce.

A focus on cross border e-commerce, cooperation with large platforms such as Tmall, Jingdong, Pinduoduo according to the types of products to enter China market, at the same time help sourcing the whole supply chain network in China to global markets. Wei is also familiar with the different types of expos and fairs both in UK and China to arrange delegation visits and provide bespoke services to clients, keeping up with the fast-growing social media WeChat platform with 1.35 billion monthly active global users and TikTok with 1 billion monthly.

With 20 years studying and working in UK, Wei has good understanding of both UK and China culture, together with difference & diversity of mindset and methods in to be dealing with private and public relations and business, grasping the key points for different demands and requirements to enhance efficient and effective connections.

Wei is fluent in Chinese and English, with a general understanding of Cantonese.

Sarah Zohn

After decades in big-tech and earlier in the Mineral, Chemical and Petrochemical industries, Sarah has been coaching small and medium tech companies on Go-To-Market and Operational strategies since early 2009. Clients range from Internet to hardware and software infrastructure and instrumentation, and new economy services.

She brings broad experience from her positions as VP in mega multinational corporations as well as from coaching small-medium companies. With hundreds of consulting interactions with start-ups, Sarah also knows the entire start-up ecosystem - companies, M&A, and VC’s.

Before starting her consulting practice, she spent 15 years with EMC Corporation, holding Vice President positions in Data Storage Engineering, Open Software Engineering, Deputy Executive Vice President, Centera business incubator and in the EMEA sales organization. She is an expert in building growth strategies for Engineering, Enterprise Sales, Marketing and Services.

After receiving her B.Sc.E.E in 1975 from the Technion Institute of Technology, Sarah began her career as an Engineer, then Project Lead and eventually moved into management positions. She was exposed to international business from the start; over the years running projects in North America, Europe, South America, and Asia. In 1989 Sarah received her M.B.A. and M.Sc. in Industrial Engineering from Ben-Gurion University where she studied and taught Information Technology. Since moving to the United States in 1989, she held executive positions in three different industries, the computer industry as well as other hi-tech companies.

Rene Attoumbre

René is a dual national of the US and Ivory Coast and regularly advising businessmen and companies with emphasis on the African Francophone world.

Currently supervising a team of almost 2000 sales agents, René is a Trade Finance Consultant for EURO EXIM BANK LTD. After earning his BBA from the Isenberg School of Management at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, René went on to start his career in the financial industry, notably at Fidelity Investments in Boston MA. Returning to home country of Côte d’Ivoire / Ivory Coast, he held the position of Treasurer of Société Africaine de Cacao, a subsidiary of the multinational Barry Callebaut.

During his tenure, he was responsible for banking relationships, cash management, financial forecast and was in charge of the treasury department. Being appointed Director for the sub-Saharan African Region for Nova Capital Global Markets, an investment bank based out of New York, he was responsible for over 20 countries.

Steven Marcelino

With a keen understanding of cross-border commerce, Steven plays a pivotal role in helping Indonesian ultra-high-net-worth individuals and conglomerates navigate investments and business ventures in the UK and Europe. He is instrumental in guiding British and European companies to successfully enter the Indonesian market, the largest economy in Southeast Asia.

Beyond his corporate achievements, Steven holds the influential position of Vice Chairman of the UK-Indonesia Bilateral Committee at the Indonesia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN Indonesia). In this capacity he serves as a business sherpa for top Indonesian CEOs, leading delegations to global events such as COP, the World Economic Forum, APEC, and the G20, where he has helped shape critical international business dialogues. He also serves as Deputy Chair for International Affairs at ASEAN Alliance on Carbon Markets and ASEAN Net Zero Hub.

Steven was a prime broker at UBS Investment Bank and was ASEAN Capital Market Lead at Accenture Strategy London office with a strong commitment to teamwork, flexibility, and a deep motivation to foster global trade. He excels in introducing organizations to a wide array of services, offering advisory solutions, and guiding them with industry insights and social media strategies.

Eric Olo

Nigerian British and US national with an MBA and international footprint, Eric is a distinguished Business Strategy & Development Executive with over three decades of expertise in enhancing corporate value through comprehensive strategic initiatives, astute investment management, and transformative business practices. With a career spanning various sectors and countries, He has a proven track record of steering high-profile financial operations, managing assets worth over $30 billion, and leading organizations to achieve unprecedented growth.

Eric has cultivated a rich professional journey that reflects his deep commitment to business excellence and innovation. As the Executive Director/Chief Portfolio Officer at the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) in Abuja, Nigeria, Eric led the management of sovereign assets exceeding $30 billion, showcasing his ability to optimize investment strategies and enhancing portfolio performance significantly. Before his tenure at MOFI, Eric was the Managing Partner at Epercent Investment Resources where he orchestrated strategic divestments yielding 150% annualized returns and played a pivotal role in consolidating West Africa’s largest hydroelectricity holdings.

In 2006, he founded Intelligent Interfaces Inc, USA, a consultancy specializing in business and technology solutions for global Fortune 500 companies. Under his leadership, the company delivered innovative data, finance and analytics projects. His expertise extends to formulating organizational and technology plans, conducting market and data analysis, and leading business process re-engineering lifecycles.

Chris Circuit

Chris has maintained his interest in Eurasia since leaving Shell plc and assists various companies interested in seeking opportunities and entering the growing Eurasian markets.

He has over 40 years’ experience in the oil and gas industry, starting with British Gas in the 1980’s and continuing his journey from the UK based industry to an international career with Global Gas and subsequently BG Group, working in the Far East, Central Asia, Europe and the Americas. He has also spent time working in the outsourcing industry,

For ten years Chris was part of the Executive Management Team of a $30bn Joint Venture Oil company operating in the Republic of Kazakhstan. Whilst there he performed several roles including Corporate Governance Controller and Services Director.

Upon returning to the UK in 2015 he worked in BG Group HQ where he worked on the integration of BG Group into Shell, following the acquisition of BG Group by Shell.

Alan Rides

Alan is an award-winning career professional in export. He has exported to 114 countries, visited 55 countries, and lived in 4 countries including Africa, the Gulf, a Former Soviet State, and the UK. He proudly serves as the CEO of the West London Chambers of Commerce, which has been recognised by BEIS as the Best Support for Export in the UK.

He began his export career in the export shipping department of Metal Box PLC and later worked in the export customer services department at Diageo, handling global exports of Scotch Whisky. After graduating from the Institute of Export, he worked as a front-line businessman across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East for 30 years. During this time, he worked for a UK export trading company, establishing manufacturing facilities in Africa.

He served as a dealer principal for major UK brands such as Land Rover, JCB, CAT, Terex and Rolls Royce Power, and set up successful local offices and dealerships for many UK companies. His success led to his promotion to Director level, and was honoured the Queen’s Award for export. Alan set up his own consultancy (ARC) and served as a British Government (UKTI / DIT) Trade Officer.

In addition to his professional roles, Alan is a guest lecturer at King’s College London, Brunel University, and the University of West London. He also delivers motivational presentations to local colleges in deprived areas.

Prabal Moni Sarma

Prabal brings over 30 years of distinguished experience in executive leadership, international business development, and strategic market growth, positioning him as a recognized advocate for trade promotion and economic collaboration. His career, marked by pivotal roles in leading organizations, underscores his commitment to building cross-border partnerships and enhancing the global business landscape. As the Principal Regional Advisor for IMechE, he spearheaded the expansion of professional networks across India and Southern Asia, achieving a remarkable growth of 12,150 new members, establishing strategic operations in Nepal and Bangladesh, and organizing high-profile conferences to boost the organization’s regional influence. In his role as Business Partner at CCi Asia Pacific, he built impactful partnerships with major industrial players, navigating competitive markets with skill and securing significant contracts, showcasing his strategic insight and adaptability in complex international environments. Serving as the India Strategic Relationship Manager at Harvard Business School Publishing, he launched the Corporate Learning business in India and the SAARC region, fostering cross-sector engagement through innovative training programs tailored for managerial professionals across levels.

Prabal’s expertise in trade promotion reflects his ability to align business growth with trade and market development, drawing on extensive industry knowledge in sectors like Chemicals, Fertilizers, Higher Education, FMCG, and Pharmaceuticals. His skills in strategic networking have enabled him to forge lasting relationships with professional associations, trade bodies, chambers of commerce, and government institutions, establishing a robust network of trade facilitators. Known for his innovative leadership, Prabal has a proven record in leading growth-driven initiatives, from product launches to market expansions. An effective communicator, he is recognized for his public speaking, impactful engagements, and cross-cultural collaboration with global teams. His academic credentials include a Master of Commerce from Symbiosis College of Arts and Commerce (1993), a Postgraduate Diploma in Export Operations from the Institute of Management Development and Research (1993), as well as certifications as a Corporate Director and ESG Professional from the Institute of Directors in 2023.

Prabal Moni Sarma’s career is driven by a deep passion for trade and a commitment to excellence. His strategic insight and dedication to fostering global business alliances make him an influential Trade Representative, committed to strengthening economic ties on the international stage.

Seda Hewitt

Seda is a seasoned business development expert with over 14 years of experience, specializing in export and investment promotion projects/services for governmental and official agencies. Her extensive background encompasses B2B, B2C, and government-to-government collaborations across various sectors, making her a versatile asset for any organization seeking to enhance its market presence.

She has a proven track record of leading market research initiatives and providing strategic consultancy that drives growth and fosters successful partnerships. Her keen understanding of international trade and investment landscapes enables Seda to identify lucrative market opportunities and craft tailored strategies that meet the unique needs of clients.

Throughout her career, Seda has collaborated with businesses ranging from startups to established enterprises, equipping them with the insights necessary to expand their reach and navigate complex global markets. Her analytical approach and collaborative mindset allow Seda to deliver impactful solutions that contribute to sustainable growth.

Passionate about promoting economic development, Seda is dedicated to leveraging her expertise to support businesses in achieving their strategic objectives. Her commitment to fostering relationships and enhancing trade and investment makes her an invaluable partner/enabler for organizations looking to thrive in today's competitive landscape.

Alistair Elder

Alistair has a range of experience in the trade, investment, and economic development sector in India and has been directly engaged since 2001. Having served 16 years as a UK diplomat serving in several roles and countries, his final posting was in Delhi working with UK Trade and Investment supporting businesses in market or to enter the market. Sectors included infrastructure, aerospace, and security supporting business ranging from Fortune 500s to SMEs in market research, opportunities, partner identification, and engagement with National and State Governments.

Alistair moved to the corporate sector in 2005 in India working as GM for a family-run national company before moving to a senior role for a FTSE 100 company. He built, and continues to grow, significant stakeholder relationships at Government and trade body levels in or related to India. Key relationships include CII, FICCI, Assocham, Nasscom, as well as Ministries and international trade bodies such as the UKIBC, USIBC, and EBG.

He has been involved in many UK and other Government economic development projects including in India, Africa, and SE Asia, is a NED and Board Advisor to several UK and Indian owner managed businesses and start-ups. Alistair is Fellow of the Institute of Directors, a member of the Trade Expert Advisory Group, is co-Chair of Governance and Policy Group. He is a regular contributor to the UK All Party Parliamentary Groups on India, and Trade and Investment.

Louis J Herbst

In his trade advisory and policy roles, Louis plays a crucial part in connecting businesses with key government ministries and international stakeholders, ensuring effective engagement with national and state governments. He contributed to the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), which aims to achieve Zimbabwe's Vision 2030, and actively participates towards the fiscal budget planning through the Ministry of Finance in conferences and budget papers.

Louis is a distinguished executive with a robust background in engineering and corporate management. Currently the Founder and CEO of Genesys Corporation, an Artificial Intelligence and Cyber-security based ICTS organization, he has built a diverse career across significant roles in both the UK, Zimbabwe and the SADC regions, with a strong focus on facilitating access to government ministries, Ministers directly and further maintaining relations with Global ambassadors and key stakeholders within the COMESA and SADC regions.

His engineering expertise includes pivotal projects with Alston Transport on the London Underground and Bombardier Transport Over ground. Louis has also consulted on fibre optics and digitalisation of telecommunications with Botswana Telecoms and further worked with Siemens Botswana, enhancing communication infrastructure in the region.

Previously, he was the Managing Director of BitBags in Zimbabwe. In addition to this, the Regional Chairman (2years) and then the Vice President of the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC 2 years). Served as President of the Zimbabwe Captains of Industry, Ambassador to the Commonwealth Entrepreneurs Club and Board member of the Bulawayo City Council Budget Committee and alongside, a sitting board member of various private corporations.

Committed to philanthropy, Louis focuses on youth empowerment, disability support, drug and substance abuse & skills development programs. His contributions have earned him accolades such as Businessman of the Year and SME of the Year and various other recognitions. Louis remains a pivotal figure in fostering trade, investment, and sustainable development within Zimbabwe and the broader COMESA and SADC regions.

Dr. Guy Kioni

Guy´s focus is dedicated to fostering economic diplomacy through public-private partnerships, working alongside governments, parliaments, and embassies. He serves on the advisory board of Buenassa, a company in the DRC working to establish the country's first cobalt and copper refinery, aiming to strengthen the DRC's role in the global mining sector. His contributions to business and development have been recognized by the University of Bolton, which awarded him an honorary doctorate.

He has also been involved in saving the NHS millions of pounds through a digital transformation initiative, reflecting his commitment to practical solutions in public services. As the co-founder of the Oxford Blockchain Foundation, he advocates for using emerging technologies as tools for economic growth. Additionally, he has a keen interest in the green energy transition, understanding its importance for sustainable development.

Currently, Guy leads Missang, a consultancy firm focused on building bridges between the UK and Africa, particularly the DRC. With extensive knowledge of Sub-Saharan Africa and insights gained from visits to China, he brings a nuanced perspective on global economic trends. Having lived in Belgium, the DRC, Zimbabwe, and the UK. He values collaboration and seeks to support partnerships that promote mutual growth.

Berkeley Fenne

Berkeley is a seasoned business coach, adviser, and consultant with extensive experience providing both hands-on and media-based coaching, leadership, and business development programs across a diverse range of markets and sectors.

A qualified engineer with an MBA in business studies, Berkeley is a Fellow of the Institute of Engineering & Technology. He has 15 years of experience as Chief Executive of two large FTSE 100 group subsidiaries, both with export sales exceeding 50% of revenue and operational responsibilities spanning the USA, India, and South Korea.

Berkeley successfully completed a Management Buy-In (MBI) of a high-tech advanced engineering original design and manufacturing company, delivering complex special-purpose solutions to a demanding multinational client base. He also oversaw the acquisition of a major UK competitor and consolidated the operations of both companies into a single site.

He is experienced in acquisitions, disposals, joint ventures, technology transfers, manufacturing licenses, and establishing overseas subsidiaries, sales offices, and agencies in countries ranging from the US to South Korea. He also offers support in implementing exit strategies for owner-managers.

As a former International Trade Consultant for UK Trade & Investment (UKTI), Berkeley provided guidance to a wide range of SMEs in the South West England region. He has led trade missions to Brazil and Mexico, recruiting Santander Bank as a sponsoring partner, and has secured numerous export opportunities for both new and established exporters worldwide.

In addition to his consulting work, Berkeley has designed and delivered leadership, management, and business development courses for UK training agencies. His expertise is also captured in his reference book, The Business of Business, which aims to help business owners and startup candidates navigate the challenges they face using accessible language and practical insights.

Edison Mehqemeja

Edison is an accomplished International Relations professional with extensive expertise in management and consultancy. Known for his problem-solving capabilities, strategic decision-making, and adept project coordination, he is a highly effective leader in his field. Edison’s exceptional communication and negotiation skills—particularly within institutional and corporate settings—empower him to navigate and influence complex international affairs.

With a keen ability to analyze global markets and key areas of interest, Edison makes informed, calculated decisions that address critical challenges in security, diplomacy, and EU institutional affairs. His diverse background in social sciences and business equips him with a broad analytical perspective, allowing him to stay ahead of developments and contribute innovative solutions to global issues.

Edison’s deep understanding of the international landscape and his forward-thinking approach make him a valuable asset in shaping impactful outcomes across a variety of international contexts.