CEO & Founder
Natasha Arokium
As CEO and founder, Natasha Arokium leads NIOTA LABS with a vision to harness artificial intelligence to drive innovation and transform operations across emerging markets in Africa, South America, and the United States. Her work is centered on bridging advanced technologies with real-world applications, enabling institutions to make smarter, data-driven decisions and build more efficient, forward-looking systems. With over nine years of experience in data science and analytics, Natasha brings a strong foundation in both operational and research-driven environments. She spent several years working within large-scale public transportation infrastructure (MTA New York City Transit), where she contributed to data-driven initiatives supporting complex systems and operations. She further expanded her expertise at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, a leading U.S. government research institution, focusing on advanced analytics and scientific data applications. Natasha’s expertise spans predictive modeling, AI system development, data architecture, and advanced analytics, with a focus on building scalable, practical solutions that deliver measurable impact. Her work reflects a deep understanding of how to translate complex data into actionable insights that support strategic planning and long-term transformation. In addition to her leadership at NIOTA LABS, Natasha serves on the Board of Directors for The Africa Practice | Gotham Government Relations, where she supports the advancement of technology-driven initiatives across the African region. Through this role, she contributes to shaping partnerships and opportunities that connect innovation, policy, and development across emerging markets.
Years Experience
09+
South Africa
US
Financial Advisor, International Strategy & Investment
Matthew McLean
Matthew McLean is the Founder of Endsight Consulting, where he advises African governments on securing financial flows from Western donors and investors. With active engagements across Côte d’Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Senegal, Togo, Ghana, and Niger, he brings deep expertise in navigating complex international funding landscapes. He also supports Western companies in entering African markets and accessing U.S.-backed financing through institutions such as the U.S. Export-Import Bank and the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation. As Senior Advisor to NIOTA LABS, Matthew plays a critical role in guiding the organization’s international strategy and investment alignment. With over 20 years of service in the U.S. Government including roles as a White House advisor on international development and Africa under Presidents Clinton and Bush, and as a senior congressional staff member overseeing U.S. foreign assistance, he brings a unique ability to connect policy, funding, and execution. He supports NIOTA LABS in enabling strategic partnerships and unlocking funding pathways to advance technology-driven initiatives across the African region.
Years Experience
20+
South Africa
US
Senior Strategic Advisor, Africa Engagement
Sidique Abu-Bakarr
Former Ambassador of Sierra Leone to the United States, Ambassador Wai brings decades of experience in international diplomacy, government relations, and multilateral engagement. Throughout his career, he has played a key role in strengthening ties between African nations and global partners, with a focus on economic development, policy coordination, and cross-border collaboration. In his role as Secretary General of the ECOWAS Ambassadors Group (U.S.) and as President Emeritus of the United African Congress, Ambassador Wai operates at the intersection of diplomacy, regional cooperation, and diaspora leadership. His work has extended beyond West Africa, with active engagement and relationships across countries in the Caribbean, including Guyana, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago, further strengthening cross-regional collaboration and international partnerships. At NIOTA LABS, Ambassador Wai provides strategic guidance on navigating government structures and aligning initiatives with national and regional priorities. His experience and relationships support the organization’s ability to engage effectively with institutions and stakeholders across Africa and beyond, ensuring that initiatives are both locally grounded and positioned for scalable, cross-country impact.
Years Experience
35+
South Africa
US
Director of Global Partnership & Africa Strategy
Lisa Kunney
Lisa Kunney is an International Business Development Strategist and Personal Brand Strategist focused on building global connections and unlocking opportunities across emerging markets, with a strong emphasis on Africa. At Niota Labs, Lisa plays a critical role in advancing the organization’s global expansion strategy by fostering strategic partnerships, strengthening cross-border relationships, and connecting the company to key stakeholders across African markets. She brings a unique ability to bridge cultural and business landscapes, enabling Niota Labs to establish meaningful collaborations with governments, enterprises, and local innovators. With a background in program leadership, stakeholder engagement, and international business development, Lisa contributes to positioning Niota Labs as a globally connected and forward-thinking company. Her work supports the company’s mission to drive innovation, expand access to AI-powered solutions, and create sustainable impact across regions.
Years Experience
07+
South Africa
US
Director of Global Partnership & Africa Strategy
Colin Joseph
Colin Joseph is a research scientist and operations executive whose career reflects a deep commitment to scientific discovery, public service, and community-centered enterprise. A graduate of the City University of New York (CUNY), Colin established a strong scientific foundation that propelled him into meaningful research contributions at two of the nation's most respected institutions — the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) in New York City. As a researcher at NIOTA Labs, Colin continues to pursue innovative scientific inquiry while drawing on a wealth of cross-disciplinary experience. His work across NOAA and the AMNH reflects a broad scientific range — spanning environmental and atmospheric research to the natural sciences — and a consistent dedication to advancing human understanding of the world around us. Beyond the laboratory, Colin serves as the Director of Operations for Triple J's Enterprises, a New York-based company proudly certified as a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE). In this role, he leads operational strategy, oversees project execution, and drives the company's continued success in government contracting. Under his leadership, Triple J's Enterprises has successfully secured and completed numerous government projects, earning a reputation for reliability, precision, and excellence in service delivery. Colin Joseph stands as a testament to what is possible when scientific rigor meets entrepreneurial vision — bridging the worlds of research, public service, and business leadership with integrity and purpose. Based in New York, Colin Joseph continues to champion the intersection of science, service, and community empowerment.
Years Experience
15+
South Africa
US