Meet
Our Team
As leading experts in the areas of indigenous signed and spoken languages, our team is best positioned to achieve the mission and vision of IHAV. Among us are the most capable linguists with the training and experience to tackle what the United Nations has called the “indigenous language crisis,” as our work protects the human right to language and encourages the global dissemination of culturally specific knowledge. We are also helping international organizations meet their goals of providing support to indigenous communities in the U.S., where we are headquartered.
The strength of our team is in its diversity, as we have experts in other fields of study and members of diverse linguistic communities committed to bringing their expertise and experience to achieve a common goal. As we take pride in this strength of ours, we are determined to see this reflected in the manner we carry ourselves and in the manner we undertake our projects.
Board Of Directors
Admin and Team Leads
James Paul Hensley
Operations Coordinator and Volunteer Management, Spain
James Paul Hensley is a language advocate and educator with experience across four continents. Originally from Ohio, USA, he began his international career in Masan, South Korea, where he managed the foreign teaching team at a language. academy, overseeing operations and fostering cross-cultural collaboration.
After South Korea, Paul moved to Madrid, Spain, where he contributed as a translator for the Community of Madrid´s regional government and the University of Carlos III. His work there deepened his engagement with linguistic and cultural preservation, reinforcing his dedication to language advocacy. Now based in Bilbao, Spain—a region renowned for its success in revitalizing Euskara (Basque), Europe’s oldest and only non-Indo-European language—Paul continues his commitment to linguistic diversity. For the past year, he has been a volunteer with Indigenous Hands and Voices (IHAV), focusing on Advocacy and Outreach while also moderating international conferences. Recently stepping into the role of Operations Coordinator, he now leads a team of dedicated volunteers, furthering IHAV’s mission to amplify Indigenous voices worldwide. Paul believes that every language represents a unique worldview, a bridge to understanding, and a cultural legacy worth protecting. With many languages at risk of extinction, he is passionate about working toward their preservation and celebrating the heritage of all endangered or minoritized languages. He can be reached via email at phensley@i-hav.org or on LinkedIn.
Read MoreUchechi Ishola
Team Lead, Beauty Beyond Speech, Nigeria
I’m Uchechi Ishola based in Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria. I hold a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mass Communication but have, over time, garnered much experience working in the non-for-profit sector as a Programme Manager in the last 10 years.
Currently, I lead the Beauty Beyond Speech project, one of the arms of S-DELI, where we address deaf stigmatization and marginalization against amongst young girls and boys. I am responsible for the planning and implementation of programs and projects that enlighten and empower our beneficiaries, causing them to look inwards, so they could become the best version of themselves, regardless of their disabilities. I’m deeply passionate about creating inclusive and accessible education for all, and have extensive experience supporting young people in this regard. I am very invested in youth development design, its implementation and monitoring, as it thrills me to see young people access the opportunities that they need to thrive. I’d love to connect—feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn
Read MoreKingsley Ibe
Web Developer, Nigeria
Hi there! I’m Kingsley, a dedicated Software Engineer and Web Developer with a strong passion for building intuitive and impactful digital experiences. I joined Indigenous Hands and Voices (IHAV) on February 1st, 2025, as a Web Developer, where I focus on enhancing the organization’s online presence and ensuring a seamless user experience across its digital platforms.
With over four years of experience in software engineering, I’ve worked on a variety of web-based solutions, ranging from content management systems to interactive user platforms. My expertise lies in frontend and backend development, optimizing web performance, and implementing modern technologies to improve accessibility and engagement. Beyond coding, I’m passionate about tech for social good, cybersecurity, and continuous learning. I enjoy keeping up with industry trends, exploring new development frameworks, and contributing to projects that make a real-world impact. I’d love to connect—feel free to reach out to me at kibe@i-hav.org or on LinkedIn!
Read MoreDorcas Miracle Amedu
Tech and Content Volunteer
Hi there! I'm Dorcas Miracle Amedu, based in Nigeria. With a BA in Philosophy, I've been volunteering with IHAV for almost 2 years, contributing to tech and content creation. I'm passionate about creating a more just and equitable world, where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential, and support those in need.