Throughout his life, Christopher A. Akiwowo, MBA, has been steadfastly committed to making a positive impact in the lives of others. His advocacy work, including more than 20 years with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, emphasizes taking the best interests of adolescents to heart and showcases a passion for fostering the well-being of our future generations.
Currently, as the Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of Ibukun Comprehensive Community Services, Inc., Christopher leads a dedicated team of professionals at the nonprofit, community-based mental health organization, which provides critical mental health services, youth counseling, and assistance to families impacted by trauma, abuse, and systemic inequality. The Englewood-based organization takes pride in delivering therapeutic, residential, and restorative services that prioritize dignity, healing, and long-term empowerment in the community.
Founded by the late Dr. Christian Adeyemi Akiwowo, a passionate Nigerian leader of Yoruba descent, IBUKUN was established on the principle that healing must be grounded in fairness, respect, and the recognition of shared humanity. Today, IBUKUN continues to honor his legacy by creating safe spaces that integrate mental wellness, creativity, and cultural pride — especially for Black youth and marginalized families across the city.
N’DIGO recently sat down with the dedicated mental health advocate to learn more about IBUKUN, his dedication to serve, and even his brief foray as a rapper in the 90s.
N’DIGO: In your own words, who is Christopher Akiwowo?
Christopher Akiwowo: Christopher Akiwowo is a purpose-driven leader committed to building pathways of healing, equity, and transformation for young people impacted by trauma. I strive to honor my late father’s legacy by leading with integrity, compassion, and a relentless focus on service to the community.
What are three words family and friends would use to describe you?
Passionate. Resilient. Visionary.
How did you make your way into the mental health space?
My journey into the mental health space is deeply rooted in family. My father, the late Dr. Christian Adeyemi Akiwowo, founded IBUKUN to support youth who have experienced trauma, especially those involved in the child welfare system. Witnessing his dedication, I stepped into this work with a sense of duty and purpose, determined to expand our impact while remaining grounded in his original mission.
Please tell us about IBUKUN and the work you do.
IBUKUN Comprehensive Community Services is a culturally grounded, community-based nonprofit that provides mental health, case management, and residential services to youth impacted by child abuse, neglect, and systemic inequity. ‘Ibukun‘ means ‘blessing‘ in Yoruba—a belief my father instilled in me: that every child, no matter their circumstance, is a blessing worthy of support, protection, and opportunity.
What are some of the things you have in store for the upcoming IBUKUN Hip Hop, Art & Culture Festival?
The 2025 IBUKUN Hip Hop, Art & Culture Festival will be an immersive experience combining live music, visual art, panel discussions, and mental health resources. We’re honored to welcome Grammy-winning artist Rapsody as our headliner, along with performances from Chicago’s own IAMGAWD, Philmore Greene, and Asha Omega.
The event will also feature a panel on Mental Health & Healing, youth performances, and our inaugural Dr. Christian Akiwowo Legacy Award presentation to Dr. Obari Cartman.
Do you feel like we’re at a place where more and more people are beginning to take stock of their mental health?
Yes, I do. The stigma around mental health—especially in Black and Brown communities— is slowly beginning to break. I see more people speaking openly about therapy, trauma, and healing. Social media, celebrity advocacy, and grassroots education are all playing a part in this cultural shift.
What are some of the ways that you personally attend to your mental health?
I practice mindfulness and spend quality time with my children, and train regularly in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, which keeps me grounded physically and mentally. I also make it a point to unplug when needed and lean into creative expression through music and meditation.
What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?
People are often surprised to learn that I’m a lifelong Hip-Hop head who once wanted to be an emcee with a crew called EUPHONICS in the 90s.
Best advice you’ve ever been given?
‘Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready.’ It’s a reminder to always operate with preparation, intention, and excellence.
Best piece of advice you can give?
Don’t let fear of failure prevent you from walking in your purpose. Growth and impact lie on the other side of discomfort.
Favorite quote or affirmation?
“What does it profit a man to store up his intellect in the abyss of retrogression when he can make himself a luminary, to kindle the aspiration of others, and alleviate the nebulous conception of those who “lash and lag” in the drain of negligence?” by Samuel Akinbiyi Akiwowo in the article “The Genus” The COMET, circa March 1933, Lagos, Nigeria, Editor Duse Mohamet Alli.
What’s next for Christopher Akiwowo and Ibukun Comprehensive Community Services?
We’re expanding our residential services with the opening of “Doc’s Place,” a therapeutic group home dedicated to adolescent boys in need of therapy, stabilization, and support. We’re also deepening our partnerships across the city to amplify culturally competent mental health care and community engagement. The future of IBUKUN is rooted in both legacy and innovation, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.
For more information on Ibukun Comprehensive Community Services, please visit www.ibukun.org, and for additional information on the upcoming IBUKUN Hip Hop, Art & Culture Festival, please visit www.ibukunfest.com.
