For the fourth year The Local Take speaks with a few of the Young African Leaders matriculating at Clark Atlanta University this summer as part of the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders. Begun in 2014 it's the flagship program of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) that empowers young people from the continent of Africa through academic coursework, leadership training, and networking.
In 2017, the Fellowship provided 1,000 outstanding young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa with the opportunity to hone their skills at a U.S. college or university with support for professional development after they return home. Over 125,000 applicants applied for the 2017 program.
The Fellows, who are between the ages of 25 and 35, have established records of accomplishment in promoting innovation and positive impact in their organizations, institutions, communities, and countries. In 2017, Fellows represent a diverse group of leaders from 48 countries across Sub-Saharan Africa.
I talked with Darlita Moye about the continuation of a program that started under the Obama Administration. I also spoke with Clark Atlanta University 2017 YALI Fellows including Flora Kawa - Tanzania - Florinyah Designs - this fashion entrepreneur makes custom clothing along with crochet jewelry. Lienne Shonhiwa - Zimbawe - Manetain- her haircare products company was birthed from a blog, she makes various butters to hold moisture in natural hair. Tigist Haile - Ethiopia - Root in Style - she designs leather products including handbags and small leather cases. Amolemo Kagiso-Malejane - Bostwana - she owns Lilly Cake Boutique a specialty bakery who designs custom cakes in various flavors.
These YALI leaders share their hopes and dreams with our listeners.
For more information on the Young African Leaders Initiative
For more information on Clark Atlanta University School of Business
Listen to the 2016 YALI Fellows
Listen to the 2015 YALI Fellows
Listen to the 2014 YALI Fellows