I Help Businesses Navigate Intellectual Property Issues – Ekpe

Congratulations on being awarded top leader in Intellectual Property! Can you tell us about your journey to achieving this prestigious recognition?

Thank you very much. Receiving the award of Top IP Leader at the 30th Edition of The IP Gorilla Conference 2025 is a humbling moment for me. My journey began in Nigeria, where I earned my law degree from the University of Ibadan and was admitted to the Nigerian Bar. I started my career in corporate law, advising on regulatory issues and intellectual property transactions in commercial law firms. Early in my career, I took advanced certification courses with the World Intellectual Property Organization (“WIPO”). Driven by a passion for understanding how innovation, technology, and the law intersect, I transitioned to the United States, earning an LL.M. in Intellectual Property and Technology Law from American University Washington College of Law. Today, I work as an Associate at a boutique Intellectual Property (“IP”) firm in the U.S., while also leading impact-driven initiatives like LetsTalkIPwithDaphne and volunteering at Technology Innovation Law LLC to support underrepresented entrepreneurs. This recognition reflects not just my work, but a commitment to advancing IP rights in the digital economy globally.

What do you believe sets you apart from your peers in the field of Intellectual Property that led to you being awarded this top honour?

I believe what sets me apart is my ability to blend legal expertise with policy advocacy and social impact on a global scale. My career spans two continents, giving me a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in emerging and advanced IP ecosystems. Additionally, my focus on the digital age, especially in helping businesses navigate intellectual property issues around Artificial Intelligence (AI) and copyright ownership, Metaverse (virtual-reality space) and IP enforcement, trademark and domain name disputes, positions me at the forefront of the field. Whether it’s shaping thought leadership, mentoring startups, or presenting at international forums like Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (“ICANN”), I consistently seek innovative and inclusive ways to push the boundaries of IP practice.

How do you plan to leverage this recognition as a top leader in Intellectual Property to positively impact the industry?

This recognition amplifies my voice and platform to advocate more effectively for equitable access to IP protections, especially for creatives, entrepreneurs, and startups in underserved communities. I plan to expand the LetsTalkIPwithDaphne Initiative in the U.S., publish more on IP and technology trends, and collaborate with policy institutions and other professionals globally. Ultimately, I hope to use this award to inspire and support the next generation of IP practitioners to see that global influence is attainable through purpose, excellence, and persistence.

What are the biggest challenges facing the field of Intellectual Property today, and how do you plan to address them going forward?

One of the biggest challenges is adapting IP frameworks to rapid technological advancements like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTS known as blockchain-based tokens for unique assets), and Metaverse (virtual-reality space). These developments challenge traditional notions of IP authorship, ownership, and enforcement. There is also the issue of accessibility; many small businesses lack the resources or knowledge to protect their innovations effectively. To address this, I am focused on policy engagement, public education, and creating tools that simplify IP rights for businesses and creatives. Through initiatives and collaborations, I aim to help shape regulatory solutions that are not only responsive but inclusive.

Can you share any advice or insights for aspiring professionals looking to excel in Intellectual Property?

Absolutely. First, develop a strong foundation in traditional IP laws, trademark, copyright, patent, but also explore how these areas evolve with technology. Stay curious and never stop learning. Second, build a global mindset. IP is a cross-border field, and understanding diverse legal systems adds tremendous value. Finally, don’t be afraid to create your own opportunities. My initiative, speaking engagements, and published works started as personal passion projects, but today they have now become core to my professional identity.

How do you stay current with the latest developments and trends in Intellectual Property law and practice?

I stay engaged through a mix of continuing legal education, professional networks, and hands-on client work. I am an active member of organizations like the Nigerian Bar Association, American Bar Association IP Law Section, ICANN, and the U.S. Intellectual Property Alliance, where I currently serve as a Board Director in the DMV Chapter. Additionally, I regularly attend and speak at conferences, contribute to scholarly journals, and track developments through reputable IP publications, tech forums, and global IP platforms such as WIPO.

In your opinion, what are the key qualities or skills that a successful Intellectual Property professional should possess?

A successful IP professional must be adaptable, detail-oriented, and forward-thinking. You need a strong analytical foundation, the ability to translate intricate legal principles into practical business solutions, and a passion for innovation. Equally important are communication and collaboration, whether you are working with creators, engineers, or policymakers, you must be able to listen, educate, and advocate effectively. Lastly, a commitment to continuous learning and ethical leadership is essential in a field that is constantly evolving with technology and global trends.