SPEAKER

Barbara Anthony Okafor

Barbara Anthony-Okafor, widely known as Barbara AO, is an angel investor, revenue coach, and trusted startup advisor focused on scaling Africa-forward ventures. With a background in sales innovation and strategic storytelling, she helps early-stage founders unlock revenue, refine go-to-market strategies, and prepare for capital with clarity and confidence.

Barbara has mentored ambitious founders in two top U.S. tech accelerator programs and continues to advise across Africa’s growing startup landscape. Her investment thesis centers on backing bold founders who execute well and tell their story even better—bridging global capital with grounded, growth-ready teams.

At Afribond X Barclays Eagles Lab, Barbara brings the dual lens of operator and investor—offering tactical insights on derisking African startups, accelerating traction, and building ventures that endure beyond the hype.