The Executive Leadership Team
Who We Are
We are a passionate team of patients, survivors, advocates, parents, donors, research scientists, clinicians, and healthcare professionals united by a single purpose — to help patients not only survive sickle cell disease, but thrive after it.​
Wunmi Bakare, BSc
Co-Founder | Executive Director
A pioneering advocate in the rare disease community, Wunmi is recognized for advancing inclusion, challenging stigma, and elevating patient voice at the intersection of medicine, media, and community.
206-512-4740
Tina Bakare, MBA
Co-Founder | Head of Finance
A caregiver, business professional, and the co-founder of Sickle Cell Prodigy, where she plays a vital role in advancing advocacy, education, and support for individuals and families impacted by sickle cell disease. A seasoned businesswoman, she is also the CEO of Stephen Claire Associates, a lifestyle company known for creating thoughtfully curated seasonal hampers for global brands.
206-724-5981
Abayomi Afolayan
Head of Social Media Partnerships
Abayomi is an experienced social media strategist who supports community-focused initiatives. He is passionate about advancing impact-driven work and contributing to efforts that support individuals and families navigating complex health journeys.
206-552-9217
Dapo Bakare, MSc, MBA
Head of Strategy & Innovation
A transplant donor, business professional, and the Founder of Adwa Venture Studio, Daps supports the strategic development of our donor education program. A graduate of MIT, he brings expertise in healthcare innovation and technology working for Fortune 500 companies like Google, YouTube, Amazon, Raytheon, and Qualtrics.
206-552-9217
Maite Rodriguez, LCSW
Director, Spanish Support Group
Maite is a mom, children’s book author, social worker, and educator with a background in special education. An immigrant from the Dominican Republic, she draws on her personal and professional experiences to create heartfelt stories that inspire, empower, and reflect the diverse journeys of children and families.
206-552-9217