Recently, Megan Webber, Co-Founder of KnowTheGlow, Ruth Ngaruiya, Program Manager for Africa, and Helene Dameris, Director of Global Outreach, had a call with Korede Akindele, Chief Operating Officer of the Dorcas Cancer Foundation.
Korede’s journey into pediatric cancer advocacy began unexpectedly in August 2017, when he joined The Dorcas Cancer Foundation(TDCF). With a background in banking, communications, and management, he had explored various fields, but none had fulfilled the sense of purpose he was searching for. Korede stated that he didn’t know much about pediatric cancer at the time, “I knew cancer existed, but childhood cancer was something entirely new to me. Joining TDCF changed everything. It took over my life in the best possible way.”
Founded in 2015 after the death of a 12-year-old girl named Dorcas from osteosarcoma, the foundation has evolved from supporting one child to becoming the only oncology-led pediatric cancer organization in Nigeria. Their scope has expanded dramatically. Korede explained that what started as supporting one child has grown into a full pediatric cancer organization. Today, the foundation’s work spans treatment support, patient navigation, survivorship, training, research, and system strengthening.
The work is challenging but deeply rewarding. Korede described the work as a constant rollercoaster, with moments of joy when a child survives and heartbreak when families face unimaginable challenges. “Every morning I wake up wanting a child to live and a family to have hope,” he says, “and to see our collective efforts making a difference.”
Korede’s role extends far beyond Nigeria. He recently concluded a three-year tenure as Chair of the Young SIOP Network within the International Society of Pediatric Oncology, where his goal was to amplify young professional voices globally and foster inclusion and cross-regional learning. At TDCF, he continues to champion initiatives such as the Look Again campaign, which trains primary healthcare workers to recognize early signs of childhood cancers through the “Five Signs and Five Questions” method. The ongoing campaign expands awareness, strengthens referral pathways, and ensures timely treatment for children in underserved communities.
Collaboration remains central to Korede’s mission. “If a successful partnership saves even one child with retinoblastoma in my country, that is enough joy,” he says. Know The Glow looks forward to engaging with TDCF and continuing to cheer on their work wherever their paths align.