Meet CGIAR's Inclusive Leader of 2024 – Dr. Olufunke Cofie, IWMI (Q&A)

CGIAR’s GDI Oscars recognized star individuals and teams who have made significant contributions to Gender equity, Diversity and Inclusion in our workplaces during an online ceremony on 4 November 2024.

The award recipients have answered six questions for their CGIAR colleagues to get to know them better, learn about their motivations and role models.

The Inclusive Leader Award went to Olufunke Cofie, Africa Director for Research Impact, IWMI.

Olufunke has consistently prioritized building a team that values diversity and inclusion. Over the past year, she has successfully recruited team members from various cultural, racial, and gender backgrounds, ensuring that the team reflects the rich diversity of the community they serve.

Highly respected by her colleagues, who collectively submitted an overwhelming number of nominations, Olufunke stands out as a visionary and an innovative leader. According to the testimonials, she strives to achieve excellence, not only in her work, but also in the work of her team members.

“For instance, during team meetings, she ensures that quieter voices are heard by directly encouraging input from all members,” read one testimonial.

“This open dialogue has resulted in more inclusive decision-making processes and has empowered individuals to actively contribute to the organization’s goals without fear of judgment or exclusion.”

Meet Olufunke Cofie, Africa Director for Research Impact, IWMI

What country were you born/did you grow up in?

Nigeria

What languages ​​do you speak?

English, Youruba

When did you join CGIAR and what is your role?

I joined in 2001 as a post doctoral researcher working on sustainable urban agriculture, waste recycling and water reuse as part of IWMI’s global Water Health and Environment Programme.

Please explain your job, what is your favorite aspect of it and what motivates you to grow in your role. 

My role involves supporting the effective management of research that generate water and agricultural solutions for sustainable development. I lead the design and delivery of research projects aimed at translating research actions into meaningful development outcomes. My motivation stems from witnessing the positive effects of these research actions on development.

Which [scientist, researcher, thinker, leader, philosopher,…] working today do you admire most?

In general, I admire those who are diligent and committed to their research.

What advice or guidance can you share with colleagues on how to be an inclusive leader?

Accept and treat everyone equally in their uniqueness.

About IWMI

The International Water Management Institute is a world leader in water science research, delivering cutting-edge solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges: water management, food security, and environment conservation. Learn more about the important work here.