Leading With Purpose
A Conversation with Onome Ako; CEO of Action Against Hunger Canada, dedicated humanitarian leader, and advocate for gender equity and social change.
Leadership & Impact
Q) As the CEO of Action Against Hunger Canada and a recipient of numerous prestigious awards, how do you view your role as a leader in driving global social change, particularly for women and children?
A) As a Black woman, an immigrant, and leader, my journey has shown me that leadership extends beyond organizational goals; it’s about challenging societal norms and inspiring the next generation to see themselves in roles that can make a lasting impact.
In many communities, the mere presence of a woman leader can be transformative. Representation can spark possibilities for young people who have never considered leadership. It’s important to me to help dismantle barriers that have long held women and girls back and fuel their aspirations.
Inspiration & Beginnings
Q) Growing up in Nigeria, you’ve spoken about observing your parents’ acts of service. How did those experiences shape your passion for humanitarian work and your mission to empower others?
A) My parents’ dedication to community service laid the foundation for my passion in humanitarian work, but other experiences certainly shaped my path.
In university, a friend from Niger shared that he was the only one in his family to receive an education; his sisters were all victims of early marriage. This, and countless similar stories, opened my eyes to systemic barriers, especially for women and girls. Years later, these barriers persist.
Tonight, 733 million people will go to bed hungry – the majority of which are women and girls. In many countries where Action Against Hunger works, women eat least and last. That’s why our work is about more than just food – it’s about breaking down the barriers that perpetuate hunger.
Women’s Empowerment
Q) March celebrates International Women’s Day. What does women’s empowerment mean to you, and how has it influenced your approach to leadership and advocacy?
A) Women’s empowerment is about embracing what makes us unique, owning our potential, and not shying away from taking up space. In many ways, my approach to leadership has been shaped simply by being who I am and my values.
In 2023, only 47.9% of nonprofit board positions were held by women, and less than 1% of executive leaders in Canada were Black. The image people have of a CEO isn’t me, which is why I am passionate about showing the next generation – especially those who have felt “othered” – that climbing the profession ladder is possible.
I channel this into storytelling, too. In 2024, I published [the children’s book] I Am Cherished, inspired by my experiences and my daughter’s. It’s about self-acceptance and inclusion, teaching children to embrace their identities and reminding professionals of the power of true diversity.
Lessons in Leadership
Q) You’ve emphasized the importance of authenticity in leadership. Can you share an example where leading authentically helped you navigate a significant challenge or achieve a breakthrough?
A) One of the most defining moments of authentic leadership came during the COVID-19 pandemic. The landscape of leadership completely shifted during that time, and I know I wasn’t the only leader who was grappling with how to authentically lead in a time that was so perilous and unpredictable.
For me, it was a return to my values. I adopted an “all-in-this-together” approach. I had to quickly learn how to navigate leading a hybrid team and balance the need for stability with the agility required to adapt. As the organization’s spokesperson, I reached out to stakeholders. I picked up the phone and asked them how they were doing without any pretense or agenda—I wanted to connect because we were all experiencing COVID together.
These experiences tested my resilience and adaptability, reinforcing that leadership isn’t about having all the answers but about showing up consistently, leading with integrity, and making space for others to contribute meaningfully.
Future Aspirations
Q) With your impressive contributions to humanitarian work, what legacy do you hope to leave behind, and what excites you most about the future of social change?
A) I want my legacy to be one of collective action because real change happens when we come together. Throughout my journey, I’ve stood alongside incredible leaders who have supported me.
I am excited to keep lifting others as I climb and I hope my work inspires more to step forward, take up space, and lead with confidence. Equity and inclusion in leadership aren’t just ideals, they are necessities for shaping a better future.
For more information, visit ActionAgainstHunger.ca
