Guilen Ngongpah

I am a doctoral student in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at Oklahoma State University, where I am also a Graduate Teaching Assistant in Student Support, Campus Life. My academic and professional journey spans across multiple continents, reflecting a deep commitment to global education, leadership development, conflict resolution, and community engagement.
Originally from Cameroon, I hold advanced degrees (3 Masters degrees and a bachelor) from renowned institutions including the University of Antwerp (Belgium), Pan African University of Governance (Yaoundé), and University of Yaoundé II, with concentrations in governance, regional integration, strategic conflict management, and law.
With a career rooted in education, equity, leadership, community engagement, and student development, I have taught and mentored undergraduate students in Africana Studies, supported first-generation college students, and contributed to interdisciplinary research focused on reproductive justice for Black women in Tulsa. My passion for impactful scholarship is evident in my numerous academic publications, which address digital divides, leadership development, and education reform across the African continent.
I bring over a decade of professional experience across sectors, having served as a Program Officer for the Inter-regional Coordination Centre for Maritime Security in the Gulf of Guinea, a UN Information Centre intern, and a trainer and consultant in intercultural conflict management. I am also the co-founder of LOVEHOOD Comrades, a youth-led organization that empowers underserved communities through civic leadership, peacebuilding, and entrepreneurship.
As a scholar-practitioner, my work bridges academia and community, with expertise in participatory research methods, training design, and policy advocacy. My doctoral research explores the lived experiences of community engagement professionals navigating conflicts in university-community partnerships.