Dr. Awele V. Elumelu, OFR, is a force for change in Nigeria and across Africa, a distinguished physician, visionary entrepreneur, and passionate advocate for inclusive economic development.
As the Chairperson of Avon Healthcare Limited, Avon Medical Practice, and Heirs Insurance Brokers, she has tirelessly led efforts to reshape the healthcare landscape, ensuring that quality medical care and insurance services are accessible to every corner of Nigeria.
Her dedication to enhancing healthcare infrastructure is not just a career, it’s a mission to uplift lives and create lasting, transformative change.
In 2018, Dr. Elumelu was honored as the Private Sector Champion for Immunisation in Africa by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.
In this influential role, she has leveraged her deep medical expertise and extensive corporate network to champion the cause of vaccination, tirelessly working to improve health outcomes across the continent.
Her influence reaches further as she serves on the Advisory Board of the Yale Institute for Global Health, where she shapes global health strategies that impact millions.
As a founding Director of Heirs Holdings, a visionary family-owned investment company, and Co-Founder of The Tony Elumelu Foundation, Dr. Elumelu has been a driving force behind the empowerment of African entrepreneurs.
Her Foundation has provided grants, mentorship, and business training to over 400,000 young African entrepreneurs across 54 countries.
With a particular focus on promoting gender inclusion and empowering youth, she is planting the seeds for a brighter, more inclusive future for Africa’s next generation of leaders.
Dr. Elumelu’s medical journey began at the University of Benin, where she earned her Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery degree.
Her extensive experience includes practicing at Lagos University Teaching Hospital in Nigeria and Grantham and District Hospital in the UK, gaining invaluable insights into diverse medical specialties and further strengthening her commitment to improving healthcare.
Dr. Elumelu is also a passionate advocate for the elevation of women in leadership roles within the insurance sector.
At the International Conference for Women in Insurance in November 2024, she delivered a powerful message about the importance of women’s perspectives in crafting people-centered, inclusive solutions.
She called for stronger public-private partnerships to build a more resilient and inclusive insurance industry across Africa, ensuring that no one is left behind.
Through her unwavering commitment to healthcare, insurance, and entrepreneurship, Dr. Awele V. Elumelu stands as a true trailblazer, transforming lives, shaping futures, and championing inclusive growth across the African continent.
Her legacy is one of empowerment, leadership, and relentless dedication to making the world a better place for generations to come.
