Biography
Mambu Sherman is an executive in impact investing and financial inclusion, dedicated to advancing economic resilience in underserved communities. As the founding Executive Director of the Southern Communities Initiative (SCI)—a corporate impact consortium launched by Robert F. Smith (Vista Equity Partners), PayPal, Boston Consulting Group, and the W.K. Kellogg Foundation—he collaborates with corporations, philanthropies, and government agencies to channel resources into high-impact projects in historically underinvested cities across the Southern U.S.
Mambu has built a career scaling impact-driven initiatives, forging cross-sector partnerships, and leading complex systems-change efforts. Previously, he was Vice President of Global Philanthropy at JPMorgan Chase, shaping the firm’s corporate responsibility strategy across key Midwest markets. His work strengthened small business ecosystems for underinvested entrepreneurs, social finance tools, and financial stability programs, driving inclusive economic growth.
As Senior Innovation Manager at Chicago Beyond, a philanthropic venture fund and impact investor, he led the design and execution of the firm’s investment strategies and innovation initiatives, directing $30+ million in capital into organisations addressing systemic challenges for youth and communities.
Inspired by Kenneth Amaeshi's work on Africapitalism, his fellowship will explore institutionalising and scaling the One Kindred One Business Initiative (OKOBI) in Nigeria. By examining indigenous economic models, this project aims to redefine governance systems, demonstrating how community-driven enterprises can drive equity and shared prosperity.
Mambu holds a bachelor’s degree from Savannah State University and an MBA from New Yok University Stern School of Business.