T H E D I G I T A L D I P L O M A T

Request
Speaker

Known as The Digital Diplomat™, Wendy Ekua (W.E.) Da’Cruz is a dynamic speaker whose mix of academic astute, practical principles, and consciousness commands audiences from world leaders to everyday citizens committed to the real transformation of thought and tangible action.

Keynote Panel Workshops Webinars Retreats

Keynote Panel Workshops Webinars Retreats

Request
to Speak and Ignite
Transformation

U.S. Embassy of Zimbabwe

U.S. Embassy Pretoria, South Africa

World Export Development Forum, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources in Lilongwe, Malawi

U.S. Embassy of Zimbabwe fully funded Advancing Women in Agriculture through Technology at Chinonyi University

Health LeadHer Conference, The Gaylord, National Harbor Maryland, USA

W.E has become a mentor and role model over the years as I have watched her fiercely advocate for economic capacity building & up-skilling within US-African trade networks. I am very appreciative to have been introduced to someone who embodies and demonstrates consistent expertise throughout all of her passions, and I both recommend and look forward to continuing to learn from her experience and friendship in the years to come.

Asanté Asiedu , CEO of Udēēsa Systemics & Technology, United States

Elizabeth (Bakes) Halpin , Vice Dean, Seton Hall University Continuing and Professional Education, New Jersey, United States

I am writing to highly recommend Wendy Da’Cruz, co-founder of Mushroom Angel Company. During my four-week stay in Detroit City, I had the privilege of learning from Wendy, and I can confidently say that she is a remarkable mentor and leader. Wendy possesses a wealth of knowledge and expertise in various areas, and she generously shared her insights with me. Her guidance on business matters was invaluable, providing me with a deeper understanding of strategic planning and market analysis. Moreover, Wendy’s advice on personal and professional development was truly impactful. She has a unique ability to inspire and motivate others, and her encouragement has helped me believe more in myself and my potential. Overall, Wendy Da’Cruz is a visionary entrepreneur and a compassionate mentor. I am grateful for the opportunity to have learned from her, and I am confident that she will continue to inspire and empower those around her.

Jason Prisirie, YLAI Alumni 2024, Suriname

I had the pleasure of working with Wendy Ekua under my professional fellowship program. Her determination and kindness made her an exemplary supervisor and it was inspirational to work with her. Since I do not have any background in business, she used to make it simple for me.

What I like about her business is that the whole family is committed and determined to succeed in the food market by bringing mushroom burgers where vegans, vegetarians, and meat lovers can meet each other. Wendy is a strong and confident leader, she is just wonderful.

I will never forget her passion, patience, and kindness. I miss the kitchen, the freezer that used to scare me-I was afraid to be locked inside. Wendy is not just a supervisor, she is a friend and sister. She is just wonderful.

Rabia Seddiki , University Professor, Algeria

I met Wendy Ekua at a business network event in Harare, Zimbabwe, and my conversation with Wendy Ekua wasn’t just informative, it was transformative. Her deep understanding of digital diplomacy helped me navigate the complexities of this ever-evolving field. Wendy’s ability to break down complex concepts into actionable insights was truly remarkable, and her willingness to share her expertise made a lasting impression. If you’re looking to gain a deeper understanding of digital diplomacy and its potential impact, I highly recommend engaging with Wendy. Her guidance will equip you with the tools and knowledge you need to thrive in this dynamic space.

Shammah Mahobele, Student, Zimbabwe

I had an incredibly insightful conversation with Wendy Ekua about digital diplomacy. Her expertise is unmatched, and she took the time to break down the complexities of the field, offering invaluable insights.

Wendy’s generosity in sharing her knowledge is commendable, making her an exceptional mentor.

I highly recommend Wendy to anyone navigating the dynamic world of digital diplomacy. Thank you, Wendy, for your guidance and inspiration.

Adaeze Ekwochi, Product Strategist, Nigeria

W. E. Da’Cruz was the Director/Trainer for a 5-week course that I participated in – The Role of Technology and Innovation for African Businesses in Addressing the Impact of COVID-19 – run under the auspices of the UNECA/ African Institute of Economic Development and Planning (IDEP) from July to August 2021. IDEP is based in Dakar, Senegal, but the course was delivered online. The learning materials for the course were well-researched, organized, and expertly presented. Ms. Da’Cruz took time to respond to questions from all the learners, sought for more information when necessary, and gave a way forward where that was required. This required considerable skill, given that the participants were from all regions in Africa and did not share the same level of competence in English.

As a direct result of the training, I have begun to reorganize the way I am running my office. Specifically, I am in the planning stage of developing learning materials in my subject area to share online with a wider audience, taking advantage of the opportunities presented by COVID-19.

Ms. Da’Cruz demonstrated deep knowledge and awareness about the African continent and the changes that are taking place in terms of technology and innovation, the challenges that we are facing, and what we are doing to address those challenges. I unreservedly recommend Ms. Da’Cruz for relevant job and consultancy opportunities: she is a star!!

Creck Buyonge Mirito, Principal Consultant, Kenya

Inspiring, innovative, empowering! These are the words that come to mind when I think of W.E. Da’Cruz. Though not only my thoughts — these are also the reactions of so many international emerging leaders and young professionals when they meet W.E and learn about her entrepreneurial journey.

As the President of Global Ties Detroit, my job is to connect international delegates — leaders selected by the U.S. embassies and consulates around the world– with their counterparts in SE Michigan. Many of these global leaders and rising professionals are interested in entrepreneurship, global trade, business and economic development. Fortunately, our community is home to an outstanding speaker and remarkable entrepreneur, W.E. Da’Cruz, who has been inspiring international delegations that visit Detroit in person and virtually through US Department of State-sponsored exchange programs. These international exchanges include the prestigious International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), TechGirls, Pan African Youth Leadership Program (PAYLP), Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) – Washington Mandela Fellows, Professional Fellows Programs. W.E. has served as a featured speaker or presenter in these programs (and more!) and has made a lasting positive impression by sharing her experience, expertise, and insights. Program participants rave about her presentations, evaluating the sessions as a highlight of their exchange experience.

W.E. ‘s background in international relations, business, and diplomacy make her an excellent resource to global groups seeking to learn, connect, and be inspired. She has cross-cultural competencies, has presented internationally, and can communicate her messages about entrepreneurship, tech careers, women’s empowerment, economic development and equity, e-commerce, international trade to both youth and adult audiences around the world. I am a big fan and enjoy every opportunity to meet with W.E., as I always leave inspired and learn something new.

Marian Reich, Executive Director at Global Ties Detroit, Michigan, United States

Top