Zoe Chinaka is a dynamic and visionary communications leader with over a decade of experience in brand development, strategic marketing, media, and stakeholder engagement. 

As Chief Advancement Officer at Project Yananai, Zoe brings a deep commitment to shaping powerful narratives, fostering meaningful connections, and elevating organizational impact through innovative and inclusive advancement strategies.

With a distinguished career spanning the public, private, and non-profit sectors across the UK, Europe, and Africa, Zoe has held pivotal roles at leading organizations such as the US Office of Naval Research Global, GSTT Foundation, Shelter UK, London Ambulance Service NHS, Rethink Mental Illness, and Amazon. In her most recent role as Department Head of Strategic Communications (West Region) at the US Office of Naval Research Global, Zoe developed and executed communications plans for Europe and the Western region, managed high-level PR and stakeholder relationships, and led impactful internal and external engagement initiatives.

Zoe’s expertise encompasses corporate communications, digital engagement, media relations, change and crisis management, and DEI/EDI communications leadership. Her experience includes managing branding and design for major health-focused foundations, leading crisis response communications for frontline NHS services, spearheading digital transformation and content strategies for mental health and housing organizations, and directing integrated fundraising and sponsorship campaigns for NGOs and global brands.

A trusted advisor to executive teams and a proven team builder, Zoe excels in campaign planning and execution, community and stakeholder engagement, and the development of compelling brand identities. She is technically proficient in leading digital and social media strategy, content development, SEO, analytics, and the use of advanced communications platforms.

Zoe holds dual Masters degrees in Communications Management and in Advertising and Branding from the University of West London, a PG qualification in Broadcast Journalism from the New York Film Academy, and a Bachelor’s in Mass Communication from ABSU. She is also credentialed in project management, diversity and inclusion leadership, and advanced digital marketing.

Passionate about advancing Project Yananai’s mission, Zoe is dedicated to building authentic engagement, amplifying the organization’s voice, and driving transformative growth through strategic communications, innovative branding, and purposeful partnerships.