Abir Ibrahim
Associate Director for Africa, World Economic Forum
Sudan

Abir Ibrahim
Associate Director for Africa, World Economic Forum
Sudan
Abir Ibrahim stands as a beacon of inspiration and influence, having been named in the 5th list of 100 Most Influential African Women in 2023 by Avance Media. With a distinguished career as a Sudanese-American development practitioner, [Name] currently serves as the Associate Director of Africa at the World Economic Forum in Geneva, Switzerland.
Previously, Abir Ibrahim led the Private Sector portfolio at UNICEF in Sudan, showcasing a deep commitment to social and economic development, African Affairs, gender mainstreaming, and global health. Her mission-driven approach has ignited national and global dialogues on crucial issues such as youth civil engagement, diaspora in development, and gender economic strengthening plans.
In 2014, Abir Ibrahim served as a Peace Corps Health Advisor in rural Tanzania, contributing to health sector reform with a focus on inclusive spaces for women’s social and economic empowerment. Responding to the gender gap in poverty, she founded Inua Naturals Inc., a for-profit enterprise empowering marginalized women farmers and artisans through agribusiness and tech innovation.
Abir Ibrahim’s influence extends beyond her role at Inua Naturals. She served as UNICEF USA’s Community Engagement Fellow, mobilizing influencers, constituents, diaspora groups, donors, and youth for grassroots and high-level campaigns. Her work with public and private institutions, including the Institute of Economics & Peace and the United Nations Global Compact, highlights her commitment to transformative projects for underprivileged communities.
Abir Ibrahim has held key positions such as a Young Global Changer of the G20 Global Solutions, an Ambassador of the Institute of Economics and Peace, and a strategic advisory group member on women’s economic empowerment. Her involvement in global forums, including the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting of the New Champions and the United Nations General Assembly Commonwealth Africa Summit, demonstrates her dedication to shaping policies and advocating for positive change.
Abir Ibrahim has been recognized for her outstanding contributions, including nominations for Most Influential People of African Descent and 120 Under 40 New Generation of Family Planning Leaders. Her briefing at the United Nations Human Rights Council and the United Nations General Assembly Commonwealth Africa Summit reflects her commitment to gender inclusion and good governance.
With an academic background in Psychology and a Master’s Degree in Public Health, Abir Ibrahim embodies the spirit of a Sudanese-born global citizen. Her commitment to creating sustainable solutions for gender-based inequalities is evident in her combined efforts of grassroots interventions and global advocacy.
Abir Ibrahim’s impactful work has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Daily News, 21Ninety, Voice of America, CGTN, AllAfrica, The Guardian, and more.
Abir Ibrahim stands as a true influencer, recognized for her dedication to fostering positive change and promoting gender equality. Her inclusion in the 5th list of 100 Most Influential African Women in 2023 by Avance Media solidifies her position as a transformative leader making a lasting impact on a global scale.