Get to know us
Manfred Chaponda – Global Executive Director
Mr. Manfred Chaponda, a distinguished climate change advocate and aeronautical engineer with over 27 years of expertise, currently contributes his skills at AMAC Aerospace in Switzerland. With a Master’s in Leading Innovation and Change Management from York St. John University, Mr. Chaponda is a strong proponent of sustainable aviation and environmental restoration.
As Global- Executive Director of the Centre for Green Economy in Developing Countries (CEGED), he spearheads initiatives that collaborate with governments and NGOs to implement green energy solutions and sustainable infrastructure in regions vulnerable to climate change. His leadership drives projects in reforestation, carbon capture, and renewable energy, aiming to restore ecosystems and support economic resilience.
Passionate about nurturing future talent, Mr. Chaponda mentors aspiring engineers from developing nations, encouraging them to create sustainable innovations that harmonise environmental protection with economic development. He is also a visionary in advancing a carbon-neutral aviation industry, championing developing countries in leading the transition to a green economy.
Tessi Timmons - Global Member Lead- Climate change Awareness
Tessi Timmons is a key member of CEGED global team, dedicated to raising awareness about climate change.
Based in the United States, Tessi is an accomplished educator, social change advocate, change maker, and writer. Tess is a published author and enjoys inspiring other people. She regularly contributes to blogs and podcasts, sharing her insights on climate action and sustainable living.
Dr. Yanira Ntupanyama- Global board Member, Lead Consultant and Advisor
Dr Yanira Ntupanyama is a distinguished expert in public sector administration and policy, specialising in agriculture and ecosystem management. With 28 years of public service, she has amassed extensive experience in the fields of environment, natural resources, climate change, and agricultural development.
Her policy expertise includes planning, formulation, and analysis, along with research in agriculture, change, climate natural and resource management. Dr Ntupanyama has collaborated with leading organisations such as UNDP, UNEP, FAO, AMCEN, UNFCCC, IAEA, and World Agroforestry, establishing a broad network across government, NGOs, and international institutions.
Throughout her career, she has held senior roles within the Malawi government, including Secretary for Environment and Climate Change Management and Chief Director, playing a pivotal role in advancing the country's transition to a green economy. She possesses strong skills in sustainable development, biodiversity conservation, environmental compliance, climate change, agricultural transformation, and ecosystem-based approaches.
Dr Ntupanyama holds a PhD in Social Studies, Plant Science, and Biotechnology from the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (UMB). Her leadership in climate change negotiations, coupled with her global board memberships and consultancy work, has made her a key figure in shaping environmental and agricultural policies at both national and international levels.
Velli Nyirongo - Global Team Lead-Board Member
Velli Nyirongo is a distinguished UKbased Economic future strategist, enterprise architect, Green Economy Specialist, sustainable economy consultant,
Economist. With over 15 years of expertise, specialising in Green Economy. His insights have been featured on renowned platforms such as SABC Africa and
Times TV, as well as in leading publications. Velli holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Economics from the University of South Africa and a Master’s in management Consultancy from Strathclyde University, where he focused on implementing green economy strategies. As a central figure at the Global Centre for Green Economy in Developing Countries, Velli has spearheaded transformative initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable economic growth in emerging markets. His expertise as an Economic Future Strategist, Green Economy Specialist, Processes, leadership and Enterprise Architect has been instrumental in navigating complex challenges across both public and private sectors, driving impactful change in climate action and organisational transformation.Velli is passionate about combating climate-induced poverty and leads a global team focused on delivering innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency while
promoting sustainability. With his unique combination of skills in economics, management consultancy, and technology, he is exceptionally positioned to solve intricate problems in diverse settings.
