Sinmi joined the Indigenous Hands and Voices (IHAV) team in 2020, initially drawn by a strong interest in learning Nigerian sign languages. Starting as a volunteer, she contributed to social media content development and managed communications with both internal and external stakeholders. Over time, her role expanded to include volunteer coordination and strategic support, eventually leading to a transformation of IHAV’s operations and organisational management.

Now serving as Head of Operations, Sinmi leads the administration, coordination, and communication efforts that drive the success of IHAV’s diverse portfolio of programmes and projects. Sinmi brings a deep passion for international development and a commitment to strengthening social impact organisations through effective, inclusive, and efficient practices. With a keen understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the sector, she leverages her experience in project and team management to help organisations amplify their impact.

In addition to her operational expertise, Sinmi is actively engaged in academic research. She has supported IHAV at various conferences, including the Indigenous Hands and Voices of African Identity Conference, the International Conference on Language Documentation and Conservation, and the S-DELI 10-Year Anniversary Conference. Her academic interests lie in linguistic justice, inclusive education, and accessibility, particularly for indigenous and Deaf communities.

Sinmi holds a BA in Philosophy and Sociology, an MA in International Development, and a Level 3 Certificate in British Sign Language. She has over eight years of experience in education, outreach, and advocacy, working with a range of organisations and communities to promote social justice, inclusion, and empowerment. Her postgraduate research focused on global inequalities and systemic barriers to education, especially in African contexts, with a longstanding interest in inclusive and accessible education.

Outside IHAV, Sinmi works as a Project Coordinator at a leading learning consultancy, delivering national social impact initiatives. In this role, she collaborates with social change organisations and community leaders to co-create learning spaces and imagine new futures rooted in equity and justice.

Originally from Ireland, Sinmi is now based in Manchester, UK.

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