Seminar Programme ICEF Africa 2024

View the full event seminar programme for ICEF Africa 2025, where we welcome guest speakers and panellists discussing and debating the latest trends in international education. The seminars will take place on June 25 between 14:00 and 19:00.

Wed • Jun 25
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14:00 - 14:25Seminar Room
Strategic networking: Building stronger partnerships • Agents & Providers
Professional Development Discussion
Moderator
Josie Booth
Josie Booth
Josie Booth, Business Development Director for EMEAA comes with eighteen years of Business Development experience, the past ten of which have been in Education. Prior to ICEF, Josie was leading the recruitment of a portfolio of American Universities, managing a global team of Business Developers and supporting with the overall strategic vision of these institutions. An experienced Director, she has worked at some of the biggest Education brands in the UK including The Guardian - Education, Global University Systems, and The Student Room. Josie brings a breadth of knowledge across a range of sectors including student recruitment, student accommodation, digital marketing, creative solutions and publishing. Josie gained a 2.1 bachelors degree at The University of Sheffield. A diligent and motivated team member, Josie brings her unrivalled energy and positivity to any task she may face!
EMEAA, Business Development Director, ICEF

Perfect for regular attendees to both refresh their knowledge and share their experiences with first timers, this special session provides practical tips and strategies for making the most out of any ICEF event, and ICEF Africa in particular. 


With community at the heart of the international education industry, this session presents a unique opportunity for ICEF regulars and newcomers alike to pool their knowledge in a supportive environment, fostering a more productive event experience. 


Topic areas include: 

  • Making the most of your time during the event
  • Developing effective post-event follow-up strategies and agent contracts
  • Building a mutually beneficial relationship with providers and agents


14:30 - 15:10Seminar Room
Meeting the challenges of quality student recruitment
Professional Development Discussion
Moderator
Nick Stevenson
Nick Stevenson
Nick has been at ICEF since 2014, and is Executive Director of EMEAA, helping education and service providers build lasting relationships with quality agents. He studied Spanish & Management at the University of Leeds, including an Erasmus Year at the Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Faculty of Economics & Business. Since graduating from university in 2008, he has been working within the international education sector, previously in business development positions with Study Travel Magazine and Inline. Marketing. He recently completed a Part-Time MBA at the University of Salford, which included a research project focused upon the future of agents
Executive Director, EMEAA, ICEF

How can institutions and agencies collaborate effectively in the ever-changing landscape of international student recruitment? This interactive session invites participants to explore common obstacles, from onboarding new partnerships to adapting to evolving requirements. Attendees will share experiences, uncover insights, and contribute to a collective pool of best practices. Join us to connect with peers and leave with actionable strategies to enhance your recruitment partnerships.

15:15 - 15:55Seminar Room
Developing effective student recruitment strategies across three diverse African source countries
Market Intelligence Panel discussion
Moderator
Landry Niagne
Landry Niagne
Landry Niagne, 43 years old, born and raised in Ivory Coast, Studied Translation German/French/ Turkish and Politics in Germany. After working in different positions in new cars and aviation sectors and I joined October 2018 ICEF as Agent Relations Manager, responsible for the Sub-Saharan Africa, France and Belgium.
Agent Relationship Manager, ICEF
Panelist
Richard Obeng Assuming
Richard Obeng Assuming
Richard Obeng Assuming is the founder and CEO of AstoLinks International, an overseas education advisory firm in Ghana, West Africa. Over the past 13 years, Richard and his team have recruited over 10,000 students to study in countries such as Australia, UK, USA, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand and other top study destinations in Europe and Asia. Prior to founding Astolinks, Richard worked as a science Teacher in a secondary school in London, UK. To ensure that agents understand their role within the student recruitment sector, he has campaigned in Ghana for agents to work with ethical values and integrity, which led to the formation of the Ghana Association of International Education Consultants.
Founder & CEO, Astolinks International
Panelist
Tobore Agbaire
Tobore Agbaire
Ms. Tobore Agbaire is the Founder and Director of Rankora Consulting Inc., a leading Nigeria-based international student recruitment agency with over 12 years of experience guiding students toward academic success abroad. Specializing in placements to Canada, the UK, Australia and the USA, Tobore has built a strong reputation for delivering personalized and ethical support to students and families across Nigeria. As a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), Tobore brings a unique advantage to the recruitment space — offering not just academic guidance, but also expert support in student visa applications and immigration pathways, particularly for Canada-bound students.
Director, Rankora Consulting Inc.
Panelist
Sarah Kasiva Muthama
Sarah Kasiva Muthama
Kasiva Muthama is the founder of Be-You Education, a pioneering organization based in Nairobi focused on international student mobility, mentorship, and career development for African youth. With nearly 10 years of experience in global education recruitment, Kasiva has held strategic roles across leading international education firms, building data-driven, student-centered initiatives. Her work champions equitable access to global learning experiences, especially for underserved communities. As a passionate advocate for African talent on the world stage, she brings a bold, solutions-oriented voice to international education dialogues.
Founder, Be-You Education

This session will provide an update and insights on student recruitment from three important African student source markets: Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya. We’ll highlight the most effective recruitment strategies for each country and discuss best practices when it comes to marketing and outreach, as well as advice on how to cultivate relationships with educational agents and other key stakeholders in each country.


In addition, we’ll look at the unique challenges faced by recruiters, including a discussion on visa and immigration regulations, as well as cultural, economic, and political factors that may influence the recruitment process. Finally, the audience will have the opportunity to ask questions and get advice from the panellists.

16:30 - 17:25Seminar Room
Building partnerships in key study destinations: Connecting African agents with organisations from the US, UK, and Canada
Market Intelligence Panel discussion
Moderator
Nick Stevenson
Nick Stevenson
Nick has been at ICEF since 2014, and is Executive Director of EMEAA, helping education and service providers build lasting relationships with quality agents. He studied Spanish & Management at the University of Leeds, including an Erasmus Year at the Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Faculty of Economics & Business. Since graduating from university in 2008, he has been working within the international education sector, previously in business development positions with Study Travel Magazine and Inline. Marketing. He recently completed a Part-Time MBA at the University of Salford, which included a research project focused upon the future of agents
Executive Director, EMEAA, ICEF
Panelist
Dr Michael Gray
Dr Michael Gray
Dr Michael Gray is Executive Headmaster and CEO of Hereford Cathedral School, the sixth oldest school in the UK. He became Headmaster in 2021, arriving from Harrow School, UK, where he was responsible for all academic matters in the senior leadership team. Before that, he taught History and Politics at St Edward’s, Oxford. Michael holds a first-class degree in History from King’s College London, and an MA and PhD from UCL, the latter of which is in Holocaust education, a subject on which he has published widely. In February 2025, Hereford Cathedral School announced that they will be opening a campus in Kigali at the Savannah Creek Development. Hereford Cathedral School, UK, welcomes boarding students from age 11.
Executive Headmaster and CEO, Hereford Cathedral School
Panelist
Saurabh Vashisht
Saurabh Vashisht
I have been working in the field of International Education for last 12 years. In my current role, I oversee and manage the International Student Recruitment team, Partner management and International Student services & Engagement team. I am skilled, multi-faceted Recruitment specialist, Partnership specialist, Student mobility, Immigration consultant, client retention and satisfaction professional with an exceptional performance record in implementing innovative International student recruitment strategies and execute increasingly responsible market research for my institution to enhance Global Institutional partnerships. I am passionate about the international recruitment and advising field, so I can fulfill the dreams of students.
International Student Recruitment Manager, NorQuest College
Panelist
Stephen Carleton
Stephen Carleton
In his role as Global Director of International Student Recruitment at GUS, representing Gisma University of Applied Sciences in Germany, Stephen is dedicated to expanding access to GUS's award-winning, affordable education. With over 20 years of leadership experience in international education, he has represented both public and private institutions across the UK, US, Canada, Germany, and the Netherlands. Stephen is committed to connecting students with life-changing opportunities on a global scale, and transforming the landscape of international education through opening up avenues for cooperation around the world. Stephen believes in the transformative power of education and strives to make high-quality education accessible to all. By utilising his network and expertise, he works towards creating a more inclusive and interconnected global educational community, where students from diverse backgrounds can thrive and reach their potential.
VP International Student Recruitment, GISMA University for Applied Sciences

Connect directly with representatives from the US, UK, and Canada in this panel designed for African agents. Gain actionable strategies for building strong partnerships with institutions in each country and learn the specific application processes for African students straight from the source.



With direct insights from our panel of experts, this session will help you to identify realistic timelines for growing African student mobility to the US, UK, and Canada. You’ll also discover the clear pathways and support available for African students aiming to study in these key destinations, equipping you with the information to guide them effectively.

17:30 - 17:55Seminar Room
Turning study permit and TRV refusals into new opportunities
Thought Leadership Presentation
Presenter
Jonathan Sherman
Jonathan Sherman
Jon is the Head of Partnerships at BorderPass, a leading Canadian immigration legal service, built and supported by a team of licensed lawyers and powered by technology. As the company’s first employee, he has since led growth efforts and built a high-performing team in a competitive market. With over 10 years of experience in sales, strategy, and operations at high-growth SaaS startups, Jon has a strong track record of scaling teams, launching partnerships, and running campaigns that drive engagement. He works closely with education agents globally and is passionate about helping students from Africa and around the world access trusted immigration support.
Head of Partnerships, BorderPass

Join us on this session to learn how Languages Canada and BorderPass are joining forces to help agencies and institutions improve students' visa experience.


In the first quarter of 2025, BorderPass has filed the most judicial reviews for refused study permits out of any firm in Canada for applicants from 35 different countries and 40+ Colleges and Universities across Canada. 80% of refusals have been overturned by BorderPass's judicial review!


Do you want to:

  *   Improve your client's visa acceptance rates for study permits, TRV and visa extensions?

  *   Ensure your clients are vetted for visa application success and submit flawless visa applications?

  *   Gain access to an effective process for appealing visa rejections and further improve acceptance rates?


Stay in Control: continue advising your clients while BorderPass handles compliance and legal complexities, streamlining your workflow and improving approval rates. Students have a clear path forward, increasing their chances of success without overwhelming agents, institutions or applicants with complex legal proceedings.


BorderPass is a leading Canadian immigration legal service, built and supported by a team of licensed lawyers and powered by technology.

18:00 - 18:55Seminar Room
ICEF Africa Roundtable Series
Roundtables
Moderator
Olabisi Adebiyi
Olabisi Adebiyi
Olabisi seasoned international education professional with over 15 years' of experience in student recruitment, partnerships, and market development across UK and Canadian higher education. She has worked with leading organisations like CEG, Kaplan, Navitas, and PDE Consulting. Currently the Recruitment Specialist for Africa at Fairleigh Dickinson University, Canada, she drives strategic growth through agent management, student conversion, and stakeholder engagement. Known for her market insight and student-focused approach, she delivers strong results through innovative, data-led strategies. Olabisi is also passionate about personal development—training, coaching, mentoring, and inspiring others to grow and thrive.
Recruitment Specialist, Africa, Fairleigh Dickinson University, Vancouver
Moderator
Hadija Drummond
Hadija Drummond
Hadija Drummond is the Director of International Education at Medicine Hat College. In this role, she is responsible for progressing international programs related to student and faculty exchange, student recruitment, college internationalization and international student support. Hadija has completed an M.Ed. (TESL) from the University of Alberta and previously held leadership positions in ESL programming and student recruitment at Memorial University’s Grenfell Campus.
Director, International Education, Medicine Hat College
Moderator
Ewang Atabe
Ewang Atabe
A dynamic and results-driven professional with over 12 years of experience in student recruitment, business development and consulting across the education sector. Known for strategic thinking and innovative leadership, I have designed and led impactful education programs, including the Opuvia Career Bridge and Apprenticeship Programs, bridging gaps between education and employment in Cameroon. As Founder and CEO of Opuvia and AECO, I have spearheaded national and international projects, conducted market research, organised several international education and career fairs and built partnerships to drive sustainable growth. I currently lead the setting up of International University Pathway Centers in Francophone Africa.
CEO, AECO Limited
Moderator
Victor Williams
Victor Williams
Victor Omoshenni Williams is a seasoned business development leader with over a decade of experience in international partnerships, education, research, and strategic sales. A Nigerian national based in Rwanda, he has successfully led regional teams across Africa and the Middle East for major institutions in the higher education and EdTech sectors. Victor has traveled to more than 26 countries for business and research, bringing deep insight into African markets and education systems. He currently serves as Director of Research, Sales, and Partnerships at Education HUB in London. Victor holds multiple advanced degrees in strategic management and is a published author on topics related to international education and entrepreneurship.
Director of Research and Partnerships, Education HUB

As distinct from a panel session or keynote, the roundtables provide a space for a less-structured discussion but with guidance from an informed specialist. To provide that guidance, each table is led by a host whose role is to moderate and animate the discussion around the topic at hand.


- There will be two sittings of all tables, each lasting 25 minutes. The first begins at 18:00; the second at 18:30.


Roundtables' topics:

  1. The impact of AI on international student recruitment practices - Victor Omoshenni Williams
  2. Securing the future: Addressing the issue of funding for international students - Olabisi Adebiyi
  3. Best practice for study permit and visa approvals for Africans - TBA
  4. Study opportunities in a Smaller City in Alberta - Hadija Drummond
  5. Exploring opportunities for francophone student source countries - Ewang Atabe
  6. Who needs English? Finding the right ELT qualifications for your students - TBA
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Wednesday, June 25Thursday, June 26Friday, June 27
  • 13:00 - 19:00 Registration
  • 14:00 - 16:00 Seminars
  • 16:00 - 16:00 Refreshment Break
  • 16:30 - 19:00 Seminars
  • 19:00 - 21:00 Welcome reception
  • 08:00 Meeting hall opens
  • 08:00 - 09:00 Welcome refreshments
  • 09:00 - 11:00 1:1 meetings
  • 11:00 - 11:30 Refreshment break
  • 11:30 - 13:00 1:1 meetings
  • 13:00 - 14:00 Lunch
  • 14:00 - 16:00 1:1 meetings
  • 16:00 - 16:30 Refreshment break
  • 16:30 - 18:30 1:1 meetings
  • 18:30 Meeting hall closes
  • 20:00 - 23:00 Dinner
  • 08:00 Meeting hall opens
  • 08:00 - 09:00 Welcome refreshments
  • 09:00 - 11:00 1:1 meetings
  • 11:00 - 11:30 Refreshment break
  • 11:30 - 13:00 1:1 meetings
  • 13:00 - 14:00 Lunch
  • 14:00 - 16:00 1:1 meetings
  • 16:00 - 16:30 Refreshment break
  • 16:30 - 18:30 1:1 meetings
  • 18:30 Meeting hall closes