About Ib

From Adversity to Influence: Why I Coach

I don’t coach because I have all the answers—I coach because I’ve lived through the questions.

The questions of:

“Will I ever recover from this loss?”

“Do I belong here?”

“Am I enough?”

I lost everything during war and became a refugee as a teenager. Starting over in a new country with no roadmap and limited resources, I learned that leadership isn’t about a title or status—it’s about choosing hope in the face of loss, and choosing purpose in the face of pain.

At 17, with no formal journalism training, I broke into international media and became the Africa Correspondent for the world’s largest multilingual soccer website.

That breakthrough didn’t happen overnight. It was built on rejection after rejection—fueled by resilience, grit, and an unshakable belief that I could lead and inspire, even when the odds were stacked against me.

It wasn’t born out of privilege, but from persistence, faith, and the refusal to give up on what I knew I was called to do.

What I didn’t know then was that I was also navigating years of undiagnosed hearing loss—a silent battle that followed me through high-pressure leadership roles in journalism, tech, and nonprofit sectors.

That hidden challenge reshaped not only how I lead—but how I listen, empathize, and help others rise through their own quiet struggles.

It taught me that some of the greatest battles leaders face are the ones no one sees. And that’s why I coach: to help others rise through the questions, reclaim their voice, and lead with unshakable influence.

Coaching That Sees the Leader Behind the Title

Today, I coach senior and aspiring leaders who are driven—but also human. Leaders who feel the weight of expectations, the pressure to perform, and a deep inner pull toward something more meaningful.

They’ve achieved success—but want to lead with greater clarity, resilience, and purpose.

They’ve faced setbacks—but know their story isn’t over.

They want to influence—but not at the cost of their peace, values, or identity.

What sets me apart as a coach is my ability to connect deeply—helping leaders not just drive results, but navigate the unseen challenges: the moments of doubt, the hidden losses, the exhaustion that comes with carrying so much.

I bring a level of empathy and emotional intelligence that allows me to understand what truly drives high-performing leaders—helping them achieve business success with clarity, resilience, and fulfillment.

Whether I’m coaching a senior executive in a confidential session, mentoring an aspiring changemaker stepping into their first leadership role, or speaking on stage—my coaching goal remains the same:

To elevate lives, unlock purpose, and amplify voices that make lasting impact.

My Mission: To help others rise.

Rise above adversity.
Rise into influence.
Rise with purpose.

This mission continues to shape not just how I coach—but how I show up in the world.

In 2022, I was deeply honored to be appointed as a commissioner for the Georgia Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing—a role that reflects my commitment to advocacy, equity, and purpose-driven leadership.

Beyond the Bio

When I’m not coaching or speaking, I’m simply Ib—a husband to my best friend of 20+ years, Joy Dabo, and a proud father to our three amazing children: Gloria, Nyakeh, and Joshua.

I’m a competitive Scrabble player (yes, I take it seriously!) and I unwind with contemporary Christian music that lifts my soul and keeps me grounded.

More Than a Coach—A Partner in Your Leadership Journey

A Legacy of Influence and Service

Voices from leaders inspired by Ib’s purpose-driven journey.