Behind the Mission: The ACN Team

Dr. Esai Umenei is an engineer, consultant, entrepreneur and community leader who chairs ACN and the Coalition of African Organizations in West Michigan, and is a founding member of both. His work spans advanced electronics, wireless power, mobility systems, artificial intelligence and technology commercialization, connecting industry, academia and community development to strengthen African and immigrant communities.

Emmanuel Bin Faray Muzyumba is a supply chain and business professional pursuing an MBA at Western Michigan University, with experience in sourcing and procurement. As ACN’s Secretary/Vice Chair, he supports strategic planning, leadership development and organizational effectiveness, with a commitment to empowering future leaders and strengthening African communities.

Isaac Mpanga brings experience in international relations, advocacy and community engagement. Originally from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, he is completing a degree in International Relations at Grand Valley State University. His civic engagement work with the Progressive Turnout Project and Michigan League of Conservation Voters informs his commitment to public service, partnerships and greater representation for African communities in West Michigan.

Denise Ann Barrett is an executive, strategist and community development leader with more than 30 years of experience across nonprofit, public and private sectors worldwide. Her work spans leadership, public health, governance and disaster resilience. Formerly Executive Director of Forest Bridges and a leader of Portland’s Regional Disaster Preparedness Organization, she brings systems thinking, cross-cultural collaboration and mission-driven leadership to ACN’s board.

Gabriella Umenei is a finance and accounting leader with expertise in corporate accounting, financial planning, external reporting and auditing. As Senior Manager of Technical Accounting and External Reporting at Aptar, she guides reporting strategy and compliance. Her previous roles at IBM Cloud Object Storage, Ernst & Young and PwC bring strategic financial insight, governance and operational expertise to ACN.

Esther Baruani is an emerging economist and nonprofit finance professional pursuing a Master's in Applied Economics at Western Michigan University. As ACN's Accountant and Research Analyst, she strengthens financial transparency and helps turn resources into real opportunities for underserved communities.

Robert Kagiri is a Senior Systems Engineer with a master’s degree in Information Assurance and Security from Davenport University. Originally from Kenya and a Grand Rapids resident for more than two decades, he also leads the West Michigan Kenyans Association. He brings technology expertise and a passion for cultural engagement, community outreach and opportunities that strengthen African families and connections across West Michigan.