Our Leadership

Ambassador Mohamed Siad Douale, representing the Republic of Djibouti, has been a steadfast voice for regional stability, development, and international partnership. His diplomatic leadership continues to elevate the strategic role Djibouti plays on the global stage, particularly in fostering U.S.-Africa economic cooperation.

Issa is a seasoned senior executive with over 25 years of proven leadership experience. A reliable, strategic, and resourceful leader, he inspires others to excel while driving transformational change with foresight and innovation. His track record demonstrates a goal-oriented approach, consistently exceeding expectations in every endeavor. A licensed civil and environmental engineer, Issa brings over 30 years of expertise in municipal project planning, design, and construction, making significant contributions to infrastructure development. His deep-rooted relationships with government agencies, business leaders, and the local community enable him to foster diplomatic, economic, and cultural exchanges throughout Utah. Beyond his professional achievements, Issa is an active community leader and a dedicated mentor to foreign students at Utah State University, helping them navigate academic and professional opportunities in the region. His commitment to service and bridge-building makes him a vital asset in both professional and civic spheres. Issa is the Principal Engineer and Owner of Five Star Engineers LLC, Logan Utah. Issa was the Executive Director of Logan City Environmental Department, Utah. Over 24 years and continues to teach at Utah State University Engineering College, Logan, Utah.

Tim Stewart is the Founding Partner of the Bennett Group and the Director of the African Growth and Opportunity Alliance (AGOA Alliance) in Washington D.C. He is a native of Logan, Utah.

In January ’93 Tim began his career on Capitol Hill in Washington DC working for newly elected Senator Robert F. Bennett where he served in the US Senate as a Legislative Assistant and Professional Staff member to Senator Robert F. Bennett (R-UT) for seven years. He then served as the Chief of Staff of the House Committee on Natural Resources under Chairman James Hansen (R-UT) for two more years.

In 2003, to start the American Capitol Group, a Washington DC government relations firm. He later joined with Senator Bennett to form the Bennett Consulting Group. These two firms are closely tied, where Tim and his partners represent over 70 clients ranging from Fortune 500 companies to start ups, trade associations, major foundations, foreign countries to local municipalities. The America Capitol Group has been named a top performing lobbying group by Bloomberg for eight consecutive years.

Tim also serves as the President of the U.S. Oil & Gas Association – the nation’s oldest energy trade association with over 300 oil and gas producer members. He is a well-respected spokesman for the industry in the media.

He recently took on the role as Director of the AGOA Alliance to promote the reauthorization of the African Growth and Opportunity Act which has been at the core of U.S. economic policy and commercial engagement with Africa. AGOA provides eligible sub-Saharan African countries with duty-free access to the U.S. market for over 1,800 products, in addition to the more than 5,000 products that are eligible for duty-free access under the Generalized System of Preferences program.

Jeremy Andra is a dynamic leader in business development and management, with extensive experience in launching startups and driving business expansions, particularly in emerging markets. Renowned as a strategic connector, he excels at building influence with key industry opinion leaders and fostering high-value partnerships that accelerate success. His top-down approach creates pathways for rapid market entry and sustained growth.

With a strong foundation in strategic planning and international business development, Mr. Andra has successfully led initiatives that bridge domestic and global markets. His work spans across industries, leveraging partnerships and innovations that impact both U.S. and international economies.

In addition to his entrepreneurial and business development expertise, Mr. Andra serves as a Strategic Advisor for SBCC, an advising partner and resource for the Department of Defense. In this role, he supports efforts to integrate innovative commercial technology, enhance leadership capabilities, and deliver critical solutions for the nation’s defenders.

Mr. Andra is also a partner with the Bennett Group, a firm specializing in government relations and public policy. Through this partnership, he helps clients navigate the complex landscape of federal engagement, ensuring strategic alignment with legislative and regulatory frameworks.

Further extending his influence in both domestic and international spheres, Mr. Andra has been honored to have served on the Global Advisory Board for the World Trade Center Utah, as well as currently serving on the Board of Governors for 47G (formerly the Utah Aerospace & Defense Association), and the Advisory Committee for the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition.