Calistus Ekenna is a dedicated advocate for social justice and the founder of the Blue North Initiative, a charity aimed at combating human trafficking and supporting survivors in Canada and Nigeria. As a registered social worker with the Manitoba College of Social Workers, Calistus holds a Master of Social Work degree and currently serves as a Trustee on the Brandon School Division Board after being elected in the fall of 2020 and re-elected for a second term in 2022. His multifaceted experience positions him as a crucial player in the fight against human trafficking. His motivation to launch the Blue North Initiative stems from his profound observations regarding the devastating consequences of human trafficking. Witnessing firsthand the trauma and painful scars left on survivors, Calistus became acutely aware of how traffickers prey on the vulnerabilities of individuals, perpetuating a cycle of exploitation and despair that can haunt survivors for life. He has seen lives shattered, hopes extinguished, and the invisible wounds that may never fully heal.
Believing firmly that education is a vital tool for empowerment, Calistus envisioned the Blue North Initiative as a means to provide critical resources and opportunities for individuals affected by human trafficking. The foundation/initiative passionately aims to offer educational programs, create networking opportunities with partners, highlight the stories of survivors, and promote widespread awareness campaigns to shed light on this heinous crime against humanity. Through these efforts, the foundation/initiative seeks to uplift and empower those who have been victimized, allowing them to reclaim their lives and narratives. Calistus has been a proud resident of Manitoba for over a decade, successfully integrating himself and his family into Canadian society across various dimensions-educational, social, cultural, economic, and political. He and his wife lead community recreation initiatives, organizing camps and events that foster networking and support for families striving for holistic integration into their new environment.
In addition to his work with the Blue North Initiative, Calistus has held multiple roles within the social services sector. Currently serving as a Protection Supervisor, he has also taken on positions as an addiction coordinator, protection worker, and abuse worker for Child Welfare Services. His extensive background includes 15 years as an instructor with Manitoba Public Insurance and four years as an Intelligence Officer with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Traffic in Persons and Other Related Matters (NAPTIP) in Nigeria. There, he developed deep insights into migration risk management, further shaping his commitment to addressing human trafficking.
In 2022, Calistus published his first book, titled *Trail of Desperation: A Case Book of Human Trafficking*, which reflects his extensive knowledge and personal experiences with the subject. This book aims to educate a broader audience about the intricacies and realities of human trafficking while advocating for systemic change and increased awareness.
Through his tireless advocacy, community engagement, and educational initiatives, Calistus Ekenna exemplifies a commitment to justice and the empowerment of survivors, making a significant impact in the fight against human trafficking both in Canada and abroad.

Mabotundi is the principled and result driven HR for Blue North Initiative, a dedicated initiative focused, an Administration professional with a passion for fosterisng equitable and supportive workspace culture.Guided by integrity, empathy, and strong commitment to service she believes people are at the heart of every successful organization.
She holds a Bachelor Degree of Science in Human Resource management form central unversity in Accra, Ghana, and portfolio professional certification in project managment(PMP) , Human Resource Managment (HRM) Health Safety & Enviroment (HSE) , First Aid and Trainer Development. in 2024 , she further strenthened here leadership throught the basicws and advanced management Trainer's Development programs at the Nigeria council for Management Development (CMD). Where she developed Both theoritical and practical expertise in Strategic human capital managment.
Mabotundi kordon is a dynamic Human resource and Administrative proffessional with over 8 years of cross sector experience driving people centered operations, organizational compliance and project execution across humanitarian, private and development spaces. Mabotundi embodies the vision of the Blue North Initiative, aspiring to build a future where human trafficking is eradicated, and every person can lead a life of dignity and freedom. Her efforts are a beacon of hope for many, and she invites everyone to join the fight against human trafficking, creating a more just and equitable society for all. in Blue North Initiative she plays a pivotal reoles in shaping internal systems,policies and workflows that ensures operational excellence and team readiness for program delivery , donor engagement , and field implementation. she overseas recruiting, onboarding performance managment, and administrative logistics, anchoring the backbone of the organization anti-trafficking and community outreach program.

Hajara is the Digital Engagement Specialist for the Blue North Initiative,dedicated Digital Engagement Specialist at the Blue North Initiative (BNI), leveraging her strong background in Information Systems and Information Security to drive BNI's mission against human trafficking through strategic digital communication. With a Bachelor of Science degree in Information Systems (specializing in Information Security and Assurance) from the American University of Nigeria, Tabitha brings a unique blend of technical proficiency, cybersecurity awareness, and creative digital strategy to the team. Before joining BNI, Tabitha gained valuable experience in critical sectors: IT system Analyst (NACA): She spearheaded cybersecurity and AI compliance initiatives, managed digital communications, and implemented innovative IT solutions that enhanced organizational efficiency. Internship (FRCN): She strengthened her skills in multimedia design, networking, and content management. Tabitha is highly skilled in social media management, creative content development, and digital marketing, holding certifications in Digital Content Creation, Communication and Collaboration, and Information and Data Literacy. She is deeply passionate about using technology and communication to drive social impact, particularly in advancing BNI’s youth empowerment programs and awareness training. Tabitha is committed to enhancing BNI's online presence to engage youth audiences and promote digital storytelling to end SGBV and human trafficking. With her energetic spirit and unwavering dedication, Tabitha work tirelessly to forge partnerships with local organizations, schools, and community groups. She aims to create a network of informed advocates who can help instigate meaningful change. Tabitha seeks not only to prevent human trafficking but also to help empower individuals to take action and support those affected by this issue through the Blue North Initiative.
Tabitha embiodies embodies the vision of the Blue North Initiative, aspiring to build a future where human trafficking is eradicated, and every person can lead a life of dignity and freedom. Her efforts are a beacon of hope for many, and she invites everyone to join the fight against human trafficking, creating a more just and equitable society for all.