Giovanny Bikak Mbal
Chair, Board Member
Giovanny is Chair of the Board of Directors and Interim Executive Director of Gwags Global Impact Institution. He sets the institution's strategic direction, oversees its governance, and has led its development from a student-led initiative in Douala, Cameroon, into an internationally incorporated institution operating across multiple sectors.
Under his leadership, Gwags incorporated as a nonprofit in both the United States and Cameroon, developed and launched its portfolio of programs, forged partnerships across sectors, and transitioned from the Gwags Foundation to Gwags Global Impact Institution. He has also overseen the development of the institution's digital infrastructure.
His professional and academic experience reflects a similar range. He works as a Software Developer at Ciena and has held roles in technical project management at Carleton Blueprint, where he managed development teams building software for nonprofits. At Carleton University, he has served as an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant for Computer Science courses, a Research Assistant investigating adaptive attack strategies in reinforcement learning, and a Workshop Facilitator in introductory economics.
His work across these roles reflects a consistent interest in how technology, institutional design, and governance can be leveraged to address systemic barriers to opportunity. This perspective extends beyond Gwags and underpins a deeper commitment to public service and national development, with the conviction that the transformation of nations begins with the strength of their institutions and the investment in their people. Originally from Douala, Cameroon, Giovanny intends to return to serve.
More About the Institution
Learn about the origins of Gwags and the journey from a student initiative to a global impact institution.
Learn moreGwags operates on two tracks: building its own initiatives and strengthening the organizations around us.
Learn moreA growing ecosystem of organizations connected by shared standards and a common ambition.
Learn more