Modupe Debbie Ariyo OBE

Debbie is Founder and Executive Director of AFRUCA - Africans Unite Against Child Abuse. She is  the founder of AFRUCA Foundation for the Protection of the Rights of Vulnerable Children , a new  Children's NGO in Nigeria. She holds a Masters degree in Urban Policy from the University of North London and a Bachelors in French and Education from University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria.

As a child rights campaigner, Debbie has been very vocal and visible in highlighting issues affecting the safeguarding of African children in the UK. She has helped to develop AFRUCA's work programmes on the promotion and protection of African children. She works with and advises UK agencies and international bodies to help improve service provision to black and minority ethnic children.

Debbie is a recognised expert in the field of child protection and diversity issues. She has also written and spoken extensively on issues affecting the welfare of children in the UK. She is a Trainer, a Campaigner and a strong advocate for the rights and welfare of African children. She is a Non Executive Board Member of the Independent Safeguarding Authority, the UK agency established to prevent unsuitable people from working with children and vulnerable adults.

Debbie is a Fellow of the School for Social Enterpreneurs. She has received many awards and commendation for her work including the Gathering of Africa's Best Award for her contributions to the positive image of the UK African community through her work at AFRUCA. She won the best Female Social Entrepreneur Award by Precious Awards for Women. She was also awarded the Excellence in Humanitarian Work Award by the Nigerian International Professional Network for her work with African children.

Debbie was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the Queen’s Birthday 2011 Honours List for her work with children and families.