Edmund Kwame Botchway, known affectionately as Kwame, stands as a beacon of hope, a bridge between continents, and a tireless advocate for equity and progress.

Kwame hailed from Aveme in the Volta Region of Ghana. Kwame’s father is from Aveme in Kpando District, while his mother is from Kpando and Leklebi Agbesia, all in the Volta Region. Born in Tamalé and raised in Keta, Kwame is from the Ewe tribe. From an early age, Kwame's brilliance shone brightly, nurtured by the love of his grandmother, Eugenia Asimenu, and the strength of his family.

Kwame's life was a testament to the power of education and the transformative impact of cultural exchange. His intellectual prowess earned him a prestigious opportunity to study at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, where he arrived in 2017 with dreams as vast as the ocean he had crossed. Under the mentorship of Dr. Mark Joseph, who became a father figure in his American journey, Kwame flourished, earning his Master's Degree in Social Administration from the Mandel School for Applied Social Sciences, where he was awarded the esteemed Mandel Leadership Fellowship.

In Cleveland, Kwame found not just a second home, but a calling. He devoted himself to building greater equity in the local economy, rising to the position of Director of Community Impact and Innovation at Cleveland Neighborhood Progress. His work with Contractors on the Rise and the Equitable Development Initiative opened doors for women and minority contractors and developers, embodying his belief in the power of economic empowerment.

Kwame's professional journey included founding Citadel Impact Consulting, where he worked to support mission-oriented organizations in deepening and scaling their impact. He served on the board of RE:Source Cleveland and as an External Advisor to the Cleveland Foundation's Board of Directors. Kwame’s voice was sought after on various platforms, speaking at Davos at the World Economic Forum, The International Economic Development Council, NAACP Cleveland, Global Cleveland, and The City Club of Cleveland, always championing the underdog and advocating for inclusive economic growth. And just a month ago, Kwame announced the Pan-African Center for Transformation, or AFROPACT, with his co-founder, as a platform, a space, and a vision to engage, convene, and serve the cause of the Black Diaspora. Kwame's unique ability to bridge cultures made him a unifying force, bringing together African immigrants and Black Americans in a shared vision of progress and solidarity.

A renaissance man in the truest sense, Kwame was not only a dignified and charismatic professional but also a poet, philosopher, and passionate advocate for social justice. His mind was a universe unto itself – quoting Kwame Nkrumah one moment and breaking down complex economic theories the next, always with an eye toward creating a future where equity was a lived reality. His mornings began with a cup of tea and reflective reading, fueling days filled with impactful work and nights alive with vibrant discussions and joyful dancing. This was a man who danced as if no one was watching, his spirit infectious and freeing. Kwame's love for his culture was also a feast for the senses. He loved to cook for family & friends: his perfectly crafted "premium jollof" transported you across oceans, while his groundnut stew was a hug for the soul.

Kwame's impact extended far beyond Cleveland's borders. As a Global Shapers Community Champion for the Midwest USA, he led impact strategies across multiple cities, fostering a network of young leaders dedicated to addressing local, regional, and global challenges. His involvement with the World Economic Forum, including his role on the Social Value in Regeneration Taskforce, spoke to his global vision and belief in the power of collective action.

Throughout his career, Kwame wore many hats - from broadcast journalist at Citi FM in Ghana to columnist for the Huffington Post in South Africa. He brought his keen insight and passion for storytelling to every role, leaving an indelible mark on all who worked with him. Kwame's philosophy on life was simple yet profound: "Keep your head up, always" and "Wherever you go, go with all your heart." These principles guided him through every challenge, from his small village in Ghana to the corridors of power in Cleveland, where he spoke as an international leader and inspired countless others to follow in his footsteps.

Kwame's legacy is immeasurable. He leaves behind a community transformed by his vision, friends inspired by his wisdom, and a world made better by his unwavering commitment to justice and equality. He is survived by his beloved grandmother, Eugenia Asimenu, his sister, Lily Kafui Botchway, his mother, Janet Afenyo, and a global family of friends, colleagues, and mentees who will carry his torch forward.

REST IN PERFECT PEACE, KWAME