Solomon Belette is an experienced leader in the social sector and academia, committed to advancing equity and social justice. He currently holds a Visiting Professor role at the University of Juba and serves as the Founder and CEO of the United States Africa Initiatives (USAFI). Solomon has a strong background in nonprofit leadership, capacity building, and addressing systemic challenges in both the U.S. and Africa. His work includes mobilizing resources and leveraging U.S. talent to create sustainable institutions and enterprises in higher education, civil society, and nonprofit sectors.
A seasoned advocate for social impact, Solomon also works with a regional alliance of 27 nonprofits in Northern California, where he fosters collaboration, strategic partnerships, and community development. He is actively involved in various nonprofit and foundation boards, using his leadership to influence positive change and build capacity for long-term sustainability.
Education
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
John F. Kennedy University
Pre-PhD Graduate Studies in Sociology
Michigan State University
Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology
College of St. Benedict and St. John’s University
Professional Experience
Founder & Chief Executive Officer | United States Africa Initiatives (USAFI)
Jan 2023 – Present | Hybrid (United States)
Solomon established USAFI to drive institutional capacity building and create sustainable enterprises in higher education, civil society, and NGOs across the U.S. and Africa. He focuses on mobilizing humanitarian efforts and addressing systemic challenges.
Alliance Coordinator | East Contra Costa Community Alliance (ECCCA)
Oct 2020 – Present | Northern California
Leads a coalition of 27 nonprofits, fostering collaboration and developing strategic plans to strengthen community and nonprofit sectors in Northern California.
Business Development Consultant | Sanford Institute of Philanthropy
Jul 2020 – Oct 2020 | San Francisco Bay Area
Developed the Sanford Institute of Philanthropy’s growth strategy in Northern California, establishing partnerships with nonprofits, foundations, and businesses.
Director, Sanford Institute of Philanthropy | John F. Kennedy University
Jan 2016 – Jun 2020 | Pleasant Hill, California
Connected the Institute with the philanthropic sector, overseeing training programs and strategic initiatives, and developed a series of certificate programs in philanthropy.
Director, Corporate & Community Relations | John F. Kennedy University
Mar 2015 – Jan 2016 | Pleasant Hill, California
Led outreach activities targeting corporate and community stakeholders, developing strategic plans and sustainable partnerships for university initiatives.
CEO | Catholic Charities of the East Bay
May 2004 – Aug 2013 | San Francisco Bay Area
Increased the organization’s budget from $5M to $7M, focusing on poverty reduction, violence prevention, and immigrant integration through strategic planning.
Assistant Director for Program Management Support | United States Conference of Catholic Bishops
1994 – 1997 | Washington D.C. Metro Area
Managed communications and performance reporting for the refugee resettlement network, overseeing regional efforts and leading change management initiatives.
Western U.S. Regional Director | United States Conference of Catholic Bishops
Jan 1992 – Apr 1994 | San Francisco & Washington D.C.
Monitored refugee resettlement programs across the U.S., ensuring compliance with Department of State requirements and providing technical assistance.
Key Areas of Expertise
🍃 Nonprofit Leadership and Management: Expertise in leading nonprofits, strategic planning, and fostering collaboration for social impact.
🍃 Capacity Building: Skilled in strengthening organizations through innovative programs, partnerships, and resource mobilization.
🍃 Philanthropy and Advocacy: In-depth knowledge of fundraising, strategic philanthropy, and advocating for equity and social justice.
🍃 Higher Education: Leadership in program development and capacity building for academic institutions.
🍃 Global Development: Focus on socio-economic development and sustainable initiatives in Africa and the U.S.