A participant in the Mandela Washington Fellowship, part of the U.S. Government’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), has described their experience as transformative, highlighting the program’s impact on leadership development and global networking among young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa.
The fellow is currently engaged in academic and leadership training at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). The program includes intensive coursework, cultural exchanges, and collaboration with peers from diverse backgrounds. The participant noted that mentorship and professional networks are key components of the fellowship.
"This experience has profoundly impacted both my professional capabilities and personal growth. I am constantly inspired to harness this newfound knowledge and apply it to drive meaningful, tangible change back home in Africa, particularly in areas I am deeply passionate about," the fellow stated.
The next stage of the fellowship will take place at the Arizona State Department of Public Health in Phoenix. There, the fellow will focus on public health strategies with an emphasis on mental health practices. The goal is to learn best practices in mental health that can be adapted for use within African communities.
"My focus during this PDE will be on understanding best practices and innovative approaches in mental health. This is a critical area for development in my community, and I am eager to learn how these strategies can be adapted and effectively applied within the African context. I believe that by integrating these insights with local needs and existing frameworks, we can cultivate stronger, healthier communities for our youth," said the fellow.
They also expressed gratitude for support received throughout their journey: "None of this would be possible without the unwavering support and belief that has propelled me forward. This journey is more than a personal achievement; it is a testament to the potential of African youth and a vital investment in the continent’s future. I carry this experience not just for myself, but with the hope that the skills, networks, and sense of purpose I am cultivating here will empower me to touch many lives and contribute to a brighter future."
The Mandela Washington Fellowship aims to equip emerging leaders from Africa with skills needed for positive change through education, mentorship, and exposure to different governance models.