Biography
Tessy Ojo is an inspirational and creative leader experienced in driving change and redefining outcomes for children and young people through innovative approaches to age old problems.
She is the Chief Executive of the Diana Award - a charity legacy to Diana, Princess of Wales’ belief in the power that young people have to change the world, with the right support. The charity’s mission is to foster and develop positive change in the lives of young people. The charity benefits from the support of Their Royal Highnesses, The Duke of Cambridge and The Duke of Sussex, as well as the Office of the UK Prime Minister as a Patron.
With over twenty years in third sector leadership and in-depth knowledge of working with young people and across the world, Tessy played a founding role in the building and sustainability of the charity, bringing strategic clarity and innovative approaches leading to a 360 degree turnaround of the charity’s growth and global industry recognition.
Tessy is a passionate humanitarian and campaigner who has gained international reputation for work around social equity, social impact and social mobility. At the heart of her work is the belief that with the right support and investment, young people are the best instigators for achieving real, sustainable change in their lives, their communities and the wider society.
Tessy is an enthusiastic leader able to develop individuals into a strong cohesive team believing that people come first and must build an organization they love and are proud to work for.
In January 2019, Tessy became the very first British National to be honored with The Prestigious Martin Luther King Award in Atlanta, in recognition of her innovative approach to leadership and humanitarian work.
In August 2019, alongside other key notable leaders, Tessy was named by British Airways, as one of the top 100 British Leaders.
A recognized leader in safety, social equity, social impact, safeguarding of young people, diversity and inclusion and redefining organizational culture and values, Tessy is a frequent speaker at industry events across the world, bringing innovative and thought provoking solutions to issues. She seats on a number of non-Executive boards including The BBC’s Appeals Advisory Committee, Comic Relief, The Royal Taskforce on Cyberbullying, UK Council For Child Internet Safety and more. She is also a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts.
Tessy has been recognized for her contribution to the sector through a number of Awards such as 2017 Top 30 Social CEOs, The Precious Award, Inspiring Leader 2015, Women in Business Rising Star 2015 (London Region), Excellence Award from Eva Longoria’s Global Gift Foundation and many more.
Tessy has a first degree in Biochemistry, an MBA and a post grad diploma in Counseling. She is married and has two children who are both at University.
