By Nick Christophers
It comes as no surprise that someone like Agathe Likoba would be one of many honorees to receive the Outstanding Humanitarian Service Award from Wayne Winston of the Foundation of Hope. Agathe who hails from Cameroon has developed her brand on a global scale. Her eye for fashion and her business sense has established herself as an influential entrepreneur.
Agathe was inspired by her family to reach the top and never give up on her dreams. This was evident in her work ethic and desire to help the less fortunate. In 2016 she was already in the US for a decade and launched her brand of fashion designs and cosmetics that were very well received by the fashion industry and the entertainment world. Her designs and jewelry line were on display by clients from the Oscars to the famous billboard in Times Square in Manhattan.
These accolades would be followed by her opening her boutique store in Darby, CT. As her brand grew and was made available to the public, she was on her way to receiving awards for her hard work. In 2016 and 2018 she was named winner for Best Couture Designer at Atlantic City Fashion Week then Entrepreneur of the Year in 2017 by the Fairfield County Business Journal and nominated for Entrepreneur of the Year that same year by the SBA of Connecticut. She also one of the judges for the Miss Cameroon USA Pageant in 2016.
Agathe is one who is always on the move creating new opportunities that can enhance her brand or offer her help for the less fortunate. This fact, is what motivated Wayne Winston of the Foundation of Hope honor her with the award. But Agathe was not expecting this at all.
“I was informed in December about the nomination. My first reaction was pure disbelief—I literally said, “Are you sure that I belong among these exceptional honorees?” I never see what I do as exceptional because, to me, this is simply what God wants us all to do. Helping one another, lending a hand to those in need, and serving our communities should be a way of life, just like it used to be in the past when people truly cared for one another.”
It is important to note that Agathe does not only focus on business, and she wishes to devote more time to the philanthropic side of things. She would like to collaborate with companies and nonprofits by serving on the boards of a few to share her experience and expertise. Agathe is working to make humanitarian work and philanthropy hip and cool for younger people so that getting involved in helping others isn’t seen as charity or pity but as simply being human.
At the event The Honorable Senator Richard Blumenthal sent a video message which was an apology for not being able to attend in person, and he used the opportunity to
congratulate all the honorees while acknowledging the impact of the Foundation of Hope in the community. During her speech at the event Agathe offered this touching quote for the youth in attendance, “Keep humanity, humility, compassion, and love in your hearts. Dream bigger, set goals, and act with intention. Remember, nothing is impossible if you believe, persevere, and work smart.”
Agathe is not a stranger to receiving recognition for her works with such milestones as in 2017: Nominated for Entrepreneur of the Year by the Small Business Administration (SBA) of Connecticut, in 2021: Paul Harris Fellow, awarded by the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International and her favorite 2025: Best Mom Award (from her daughter Angélique).
“Every award is meaningful because it represents the lives touched and the causes advanced. However, this one is particularly special because it acknowledges a lifetime commitment to humanitarian service. It’s not just about a single project or initiative—it’s about the collective impact of years of dedication. It’s inspiring to stand among individuals who have dedicated their lives to service. Humanitarian work is not done in isolation; it thrives on collaboration. To be recognized alongside such an esteemed group is a reminder that together, we can drive meaningful change.”
At this point in time Agathe is determined to make 2025 meaningful in every way. She has been receiving solicitations from many organizations and companies to help them with their public image. In addition, in her own district Rotary District 7980 is looking to have her as part of their public image team. Agathe, as we mentioned earlier, wants to work more on the Philanthropy end and look for ways on helping others in any way she can. She is on a mission to contribute as much of her knowledge to make a better world for all walks of life.
