Irene Abenakyo is a seasoned Mental Health and Public Health professional with over 8 years of experience in psychosocial support, HIV/AIDS counseling, group therapy, advocacy, and capacity building. She currently serves as the Institute Administrator at Afya na Haki (Ahaki) Institute, where she provides strategic support in academic programme development, student admissions, stakeholder engagement, and institutional coordination.

Irene holds a Master of Public Health from Bugema University and a Bachelor of Guidance and Counseling from Kyambogo University. She has also undertaken specialized training in HIV/AIDS Counseling, Integral Coaching & Leadership and Gender-focused programming.

Throughout her career, Irene has been committed to empowering communities, youth, and students through mental health interventions, capacity development, and advocacy. She has successfully led programs that integrate mental health services into schools and communities, coordinated interuniversity academic events, and established strategic partnerships to enhance practical learning and research opportunities.