Board of Directors
Leadership & Stewardship
Ifatola Tifase
Founder and President
Oloye Ifatola Tifase, known as Chief Tola, was born and raised in Chicago’s Englewood community. A community leader, cultural educator, textile artist, ordained minister, and breast cancer survivor, she brings decades of service and culturally rooted leadership to her role as Founder and President.
Rosie Harris
Board Director
Rosie Harris is a retired United Airlines professional, cultural storyteller, and keeper of ancestral traditions. Born in the South and trained in baking at Olive Harvey College, she shares knowledge of gardening, traditional herbs, natural remedies, food preparation, and community care across generations.
Treasurer
Justice Wysinger
Justice Wysinger is an anthropologist, New York City educator, and graduate of Colgate University and Teachers College, Columbia University. She brings research, educational, and analytical strengths to her role as Treasurer. A priest within Traditional African spirituality, she grounds her service in cultural continuity, responsibility, and community care.
Jeanette Villegas
Secretary
Born in Puerto Rico and raised in Chicago’s Bucktown and Logan Square communities, Jeanette Villegas has built a life around initiative and service. Her experience spans real estate and Cook County public service, including training in mental health awareness, gender sensitivity, and crisis intervention. A former first chair clarinetist and a priest within Traditional African spirituality, she brings resilience, cultural grounding, and compassion to her role as Secretary.
Joshua Gipson
Youth Advocate (Non Voting)
Joshua Gipson is a student, Certified Nursing Assistant, and youth advocate who brings a young person’s perspective to the foundation’s leadership. Raised within African spiritual traditions, he serves as a priest and understands the importance of cultural identity, responsibility, and preserving knowledge across generations. His work in compassionate care and at Tola’s Creations Botanica has strengthened his commitment to service, community wellness, and helping the board consider the needs and potential of young people.
Advisory Council
Community and Cultural Advisors
Sharif Omar
Community Safety and Outreach Advisor
Sharif Omar is a retired law enforcement officer who brings practical experience in public safety, community service, and crisis awareness. He supports the foundation with guidance on safe community engagement, outreach efforts, and responsible program operations.
Adekunle Akangbe
International Cultural Advisor
Adekunle Akangbe supports the foundation’s cultural education and international exchange initiatives. He provides guidance on cultural authenticity, relationship building, and responsible connections with knowledgeable practitioners and community partners in Nigeria.