WHO WE ARE
The MAC Foundation
Founded in 2021, the MAC Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit exclusively for charitable, educational, and cultural purposes in the state of Nebraska.
The Foundation provides a mechanism to establish, administer and finance programs that enhance the robust African and African American communities’ crucial needs, in line with the goals of the Midlands African Chamber.
If you have any questions about the Foundation or would like to discuss ways in which you can become involved in its work, please contact us.
Mission: MAC Foundation’s mission is to connect, empower and elevate underrepresented entrepreneurs.
Vision: MAC Foundation believes in empowering, connecting and elevating underserved entrepreneurs and promoting cultural awareness, diversity, equity and inclusion.
Values: Equal economic opportunity for all.
MAC Foundation exists to enhance the robust African and African American business climate in Nebraska, across the Midwest and nationwide. All benefits, programs, and events of the Foundation are designed to give businesses the opportunity to make or save money, acquire knowledge and skills to help grow a network of successful entrepreneurs.
MAC Foundation Programs and Initiatives
Suit Up Program
Scholarship Fund
Rising CEOs
Gratitude Gala
Umoja program
MAC Foundation Board Members
Karine Sokpoh
President
Karine Sokpoh
President
Ms. Karine Egbemimo Sokpoh, is the visionary founder and CEO of the Midlands African Chamber. Her remarkable journey encompasses law, advocacy, and community empowerment, reflecting a career marked by excellence and service.Ms. Sokpoh embodies a commitment to advancing global trade, legal expertise, and inclusive entrepreneurship. As the driving force behind 402Legal, Ms. Sokpoh has established a legacy of excellence in immigration, international law, and corporate matters. She brings a wealth of academic accomplishments to her role, holding a bachelor’s degree in business management from the University of Lomé in Togo, West Africa, and a Bachelor of General Studies in Communications with a minor in Women's Studies from the University of Nebraska Omaha.
Ms. Sokpoh obtained her Juris Doctor, Magna Cum Laude, from Creighton University School of Law, with a Certificate of Concentration in International and Comparative Law.Her accolades speak volumes about her contributions, including the Judge Elizabeth D. Pittman Award for Excellence in Legal Service (2024), the Inclusive Leadership Award from African Immigrant Family Services (2023), the African American Leadership Award in Business from the Urban League of Nebraska (2023), and the Reisman Award by Clio (2022), among others.
As the founder and CEO of the Midlands African Chamber, Inc., Ms. Sokpoh has championed diversity and entrepreneurship in Nebraska's business landscape. Her leadership extends beyond boardrooms, as she actively serves on the Global Partners in Hope Advisory Board and as president of the MAC Foundation board, driving impactful change and fostering economic growth.
Fluent in French, English, and Mina, Ms. Sokpoh’s linguistic versatility enhances her advocacy efforts, facilitating communication and representation for clients from diverse backgrounds. Her passion for empowerment and entrepreneurship is further evident in her role as a motivational speaker and esteemed law instructor, where she imparts wisdom on topics ranging from women and girls’ issues to business and immigration law.
Ms. Karine Sokpoh’s multifaceted contributions exemplify her unwavering dedication to community service, legal excellence, and fostering inclusive growth. As a beacon of leadership and advocacy, she continues to inspire positive change and elevate the voices of underrepresented communities in Nebraska and beyond.
Pierre Bita
Secretary
Pierre Bita
Pierre Bita, originally from Gabon, currently serves as the Midlands African Chamber Foundation Board Secretary. As the Chief Investment Officer at Synergy Invest Inc. and the owner of B-Real-Estate LLC, he brings extensive experience in real estate investment and business management. His passion for entrepreneurship and wealth-building drives him to educate others on financial literacy and generational wealth creation. In addition to his professional pursuits, Pierre is an avid car enthusiast and watch collector, with a keen interest in Formula One and soccer.
Dr. Matthew Omojola
Board Member
Dr. Matthew Omojola
Dr. Matthew Omojola is an accomplished retired Professor of Radiology and Neurological sciences. He is a writer and a photographer. He has published quite a number of peer reviewed manuscripts mainly in medical journals and has written a few books. He is passionate about mentoring and philanthropy. He is the brain behind Octave Photographers, LLC. He maintains a blog site on Behance at https://www.Behance.net/mfomojola86cc- . His photos are curated on https://www.octavephotographers.com and https://www.dreamstime.com/mfomojola _info and his books are available at Amazon.com/author/mfomojola .
Dr. Albert Kate
Treasurer
Dr. Albert Kate
Born in west Africa, Dr. Kate established residency in the US over 20 years. He served in leadership and executive teams for various community organizations to uplift the underserved communities, save lives and restore hope.Dr. Kate served as local missionary partner for a major Church and was given the Alegent Health System Community Diversity Awards in 2008 through programs that served people from over 70 countries for the last 19 years. A passionate of journalism, he contributes to peace building and economic development in Togo with various news projects.
Tierra Nesbitt
Board Member
Tierra Nesbit
Tierra Nesbit was born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska. She’s a college graduate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha where she earned her bachelors degree in multi-disciplinary studies, behavioral health.With over 20 plus years of working with children and families through fostering, Boys Town and Omaha Home for Boys Tierra is no stranger to her community. Countless families have been graced by her compassionate approach serving.
For the past few years you could find Tierra Serving on the Urban league of Nebraska young professionals board as parliamentarian, social/membership chair and on the gala committee (2019-2022).
Tierra has a growing business working with a population of people that have intellectual disabilities. She is the owner and operator of IAM Curvy RED boutique, where she takes great pride in making women feel “BOLD, Beautiful and Confident”. One can also always contact her for an amazing travel experience as she is not, only well traveled, but equipped to serve as a personal travel agent.
Ike Igbokwe
Board Member at Large
Ike Igbokwe
Ike Igbokwe is a seasoned immigration attorney at Ike Igbokwe Law, with a decade of experience in providing strategic legal solutions. A graduate of Creighton University School of Law, he began his career as a senior associate at a leading Omaha law firm before establishing his successful practice. Ike is known for his dedication to achieving optimal outcomes for his clients through a meticulous and client-focused approach. He is a distinguished member of the American Bar Association and the American Immigration Lawyers Association and has been recognized as a premier litigator by the American Institute of Trial Lawyers.
Darell T. Black
Board Member at Large
Darell T. Black
Darell T. Black is an accomplished IT leader, he is an Associate Director for Process Consulting-Kyndryl Holdings, with extensive experience in operations management, business transformation, and project execution. He has a proven track record of driving efficiency and growth through strategic planning, process improvements, and talent acquisition. Darell specializes in leveraging data-driven insights to address complex organizational challenges and has successfully led initiatives such as consolidating billing formats for over 209 agencies within five months. His strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and commitment to innovation make him a valuable asset in the IT industry.
Ralph Kodjovi Abalo
Board Member at Large
Ralph Kodjovi Abalo
Ralph Kodjovi Abalo, Togo's first certified perfusionist, holds a Master’s in Perfusion Science from the University of Nebraska Medical Center. He is the CEO of Adjanou Perfusion Solutions, LLC. With extensive experience supporting complex cardiac surgeries, Ralph is committed to excellence in cardiovascular healthcare and education. His strong ability to stay calm under pressure, build effective teams, and contribute vital knowledge in critical situations makes him a valuable asset in surgical settings. Passionate about lifelong learning and community empowerment, he aspires to establish the first library in his village to inspire future generations through education.How To Get Involved
GIVE TO THE FOUNDATION
Donate to the MAC Foundation
All benefits, programs, and events of the Foundation are designed to give businesses the opportunity to make or save money, acquire knowledge and skills to help grow a network of successful entrepreneurs.