Joel Blake Obe

Joel Blake OBE is an accomplished entrepreneur and leader with extensive experience in the fintech sector and nonprofit organizations. As the Founder and CEO of GFA Exchange since June 2019, Joel aims to enhance inclusivity in financing while reducing risks and costs. Concurrently, Joel serves on the Board of Advisors for Taranis Capital, focusing on ethical fintech investments, and as Chair of the Board of Trustees for EmployabilityUK, enhancing career prospects for young people. Additionally, Joel has held various leadership positions, including VC Scout at Ada Ventures and Board Trustee at B:Music. Other notable roles include President of the Commonwealth Chamber of Commerce and Board Director at Birmingham Tech Week. In 2020, Joel co-founded The Ark to support high-growth Midlands businesses and was the Founding Director of CULTIV8 SOLUTIONS LIMITED, an award-winning advisory firm specializing in leadership diversity. Education includes a Corporate Governance qualification from the Association of Corporate Governance Practitioners and a GNVQ Advanced in Business and Commerce.