Co-founder and chairman of the Board for the Columbus African Festival Dr. Bartholomew T. Shepkong has been appointed as the Chairman of the newly formed Columbus Commission on Immigrant and Refugee Affairs, Ohio.

While officially presenting the Commission and its chairman to the public at the Columbus City Council chamber, the sponsor of the Commission on Immigrant and Refugee Affairs, Councilmember Lourdes Barroso de Padilla said “immigrants and refugees are not just part of our story, they are the drivers of our future.

“They bring cultural richness, improve our economy and contribute their talents to every sector – small businesses, culture, education, health and so many. With member representing immigrant communities from Ghana, Haiti, India, Kenya, Liberia, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Somalia, and South Korea, the commission will be able to begin its work in elevating immigrant voices in city policy and decision-making.”

In response, Dr Bartholomew T. Shepkong, originally from Nigeria and who is also the CEO of the Ohio African Chamber of Commerce said “as someone who immigrated to the United States with hope, purpose, and a deep desire to serve, this work is personal to me. I come to this role not only as a professional and public servant—but as someone who has navigated the realities of starting over: learning new systems, embracing new cultures, and building community from the ground up.”

“I also come with deep appreciation for the strength, resilience, and ingenuity of immigrants and refugees—who every day contribute to the social, cultural, and economic vitality of this city. In Ohio, immigrants represent over 17% of entrepreneurs and contribute billions annually in taxes and spending power. But more than that, they bring vision, work ethic, and an unwavering belief in the future.”

Dr. Shepkong said “I’ve seen this potential firsthand through my work organizing the Columbus African Festival. It is more than an event, it is a living celebration of culture, entrepreneurship, and unity. It brings thousands of people together each year to witness the richness of our diversity and the power of shared community.”

Speaking on behalf of the members of the Commission, Dr Bartholomew T. Shepkong expressed appreciation to “Councilmember Lourdes Barroso de Padilla and the entire Columbus City Council for their trust and support. Your commitment to inclusion and equity is not only commendable, but also essential.

“This Commission exists to ensure that those who have often been on the margins are not just included—but empowered to shape the policies that affect their lives. Our goal is clear: to help build a Columbus where every resident—regardless of where they were born—has the opportunity to thrive.”

“I’m proud to welcome our new Commission members. This commission represents people from nearly 20 countries and more than 15 languages. Together, let us reimagine what a truly inclusive city can be—and commit ourselves to the work of justice, compassion, and belonging,” he said.

Members of the Commission include Adeeti Jindal (India), Bartholomew T. Shepkong (Nigeria), Bashir Ahmed (Kenya), Daniel Myungho Sim (South Korea), Fernanda Diaz-Basteris (Mexico-Vice Chairperson), Kamran Syed Arif (Pakistan), Kassandra Aguirre Ramirez (Mexico), Mariam Isse Somali), Nadia Jean-Jacques (Haiti), Naima Ilmi (Somali), Sara Abou Rashed (Palestine), Shahwar Ali (Pakistaan), Tasha Lomo (Ghana) and Rev. Dr. Alexander Y Sumo (Liberia).

Dr. Bartholomew T. Shepkong described himself as “dedicated educator and scholar with a Ph.D. in Social Justice and Community Development, specializing in fostering critical understanding and interdisciplinary approaches to Philosophy, Sociology, and Cultural Diversity.”

The purpose of the Commission is to advise Council on issues of common concern to immigrants, particularly in the areas of health and human services, education, and the demographic makeup of the Columbus Immigrant/Refugee community.

Members may be reappointed to a new three-year term at the conclusion of their initial term. All member appointments shall be subject to a vote by Council, with a majority in the affirmative required for appointment.

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