Dr. Alma Okpalefe

Biography

Alma Okpalefe is a global space leader, institutional strategist, and international development practitioner with nearly two decades of experience in space-sector leadership, institutional development, governance, and international cooperation. Her work focuses on strengthening the institutions, partnerships, and leadership capabilities needed to advance the global space economy, with particular expertise in Africa’s evolving space sector.

As Executive Director of the World Space Week Association (WSWA), the organisation coordinating the United Nations-declared World Space Week, Alma provides strategic and operational leadership for a global network spanning more than 100 countries. She leads institutional development, global expansion, governance, and international partnerships, bringing together governments, space agencies, industry, educational institutions, and civil society to advance public engagement with space science and technology.

Previously, Alma spent close to two decades with Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT), Nigeria’s national satellite operator, serving as Company Secretary, Legal Adviser, and Head of Strategy and International Cooperation. Her work spanned institutional governance, sovereign satellite infrastructure development, international negotiations, regulatory affairs, and multilateral engagement, including representation in the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Regional African Satellite Communications Organisation (RASCOM).

Alma holds a PhD in Policy and Strategic Studies, an MBA in Strategic Management, and postgraduate qualifications in Corporate and Commercial Law. She is a dual-qualified barrister in Nigeria and England and Wales, and a Chartered Secretary. Her international recognition includes the Karman Pioneer Fellowship, AIAA Diverse Dozen, and recognition among the 100 Top Women in Aerospace and Aviation.