Dr. Hilda Fankah-Arthur

Dr. Hilda Fankah-Arthur is a visionary leader, policy strategist, educator, and global advocate dedicated to advancing equity, education, and inclusive economic development. As Founder and President of the Centre for Intellectual Excellence (CeFIE) Canada and President of the Global Economic Diversification (GED) Council, she is recognized internationally for her unique ability to translate research, lived experience, and strategic insight into transformative action. Her work has consistently created spaces that present solutions, uplift communities and inspire systemic change.

🌟 Key Achievements and Contributions

Global Advocate for Inclusive Economic Growth
Dr. Fankah-Arthur has contributed to high-profile discussions on inclusive economic growth and diversification on global platforms such as the Commonwealth Business Forum, United Nations conferences, and other major international spaces. She presents research and thought leadership on diversity, African Indigenous knowledge, leadership, and multiculturalism, demonstrating her commitment to shaping a more inclusive global economy.

Founder of the Centre for Intellectual Excellence Canada (CeFIE Canada)
Through CeFIE Canada, Dr. Fankah-Arthur has established a dynamic hub that supports the educational and professional advancement of diverse and marginalized populations. Under her leadership, CeFIE Canada has developed innovative programs, research initiatives, and training designed to dismantle systemic barriers and expand opportunities.

President of the Global Economic Diversification Council
As President of the GED Council, she has driven ambitious efforts to strengthen economic resilience and foster international collaboration. She led the Global Economic Diversification Summit and oversaw the publication of the GED Summit 2025 Report, an influential resource shaping policy conversations around sustainable and equitable economic transformation.

Leadership in the World Diversity in Leadership Conference
Dr. Fankah-Arthur founded and leads the World Diversity in Leadership Conference, in partnership with Wodil Inc., establishing it as a globally respected platform to champion diversity, inclusion, and Equity. Under her guidance, the conference has become a catalyst for dialogue and action across sectors and regions.

Leveraging EDI Frameworks to Address Global Issues
Dr. Fankah-Arthur creates a platform for international contributions using EDI frameworks to address critical global challenges through World Diversity in Leadership Conference each year. Under her leadership in the WODIL conference and related initiatives, she has advanced impactful conversations on:

• The Importance of a Diverse Workforce in Economic Recovery (2021)
• Leveraging Diversity to Advance Innovation and Entrepreneurship (2022)
• Climate Change and Mental Health: The Impact of Diverse Leadership Skills (2023)
• Advancing ESG through Sustainable IDEA Initiatives (2024)
• Navigating New Frontiers: Embracing EDI in the AI and Automation Era (2025)
  
  

Prowess in Engaging Global Leaders on Critical Issues
Dr. Fankah-Arthur has demonstrated exceptional skill in engaging with prominent figures—including H.E. Felipe Calderón, Former President of Mexico; Julia Gillard, Former Prime Minister of Australia; H.E. Dr. Jewel Taylor, Vice President of Liberia; Dr. Makaziwe Mandela; Dr. Cindy Blackstock; Margaret Trudeau; and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. III. Through the Global Economic Diversification Summit, she has also engaged with H.E. Hassan Diab, Former Prime Minister of Lebanon; and ambassadors such as H.E. Fatima Braoulé Méïté, former Ambassador of Mali to Canada, to advance dialogue on global inequality, economic diversification, and reconciliation. Her ability to convene and connect diverse perspectives reflects her keen insight, diplomatic acumen, and commitment to driving systemic change.

Policy Influence and Academic Excellence
Dr. Fankah-Arthur has contributed to advancing knowledge and leadership development through her work as an Instructor at the University of Alberta, where she taught courses and delivered presentations on practical public policy analysis and implementation, Aboriginal education, and community engagement. Her academic pursuits have included mentoring emerging leaders, conducting research, and developing programs that promote inclusive learning environments and culturally responsive practices.

Transformational Leadership
As Board Chair of the Council for the Advancement of African Canadians in Alberta (Africa Centre), she led a significant restructuring process to strengthen the organization’s capacity to serve Edmonton’s African population and the broader Alberta region.

Educational Background and Professional Credentials

Dr. Fankah-Arthur holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Educational Policy Studies from the University of Alberta, a Master’s degree from Santa Clara University in California, USA, and a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Cape Coast in Ghana. She is also a certified Child Development Supervisor in Alberta, reflecting her commitment to advancing excellence in education and child development across diverse contexts.

🏅 Awards and Honours

• King Charles III Coronation Medal, recognizing her outstanding contributions to community development, education, and social inclusion.
• Multiple awards for academic excellence, professional achievement, and leadership in research, public policy and community engagement.