One of the most admirable aspects of the ALA’s approach to education is that the financial status of applicants has no impact on whether or not they are accepted. This is a fact which most youth development supporters, including Tunde Folawiyo are most likely aware of. Because of this generosity, many talented, studious young people from disadvantaged backgrounds have been given the opportunity to better themselves by attending this academy. Take for instance, Tebogo Mabuka; born in Pretoria, this young woman and her four siblings were raised by a single mother.

Despite being brought up in challenging circumstances, Tebogo managed to graduate at the top of her class in primary school, and was within the top five in her secondary school. She also dedicated much of her free time to co-founding and running ‘Eco Club’, which aimed to raise awareness of environmental issues in her local area. Additionally, Tebogo served as a student counsellor, offering her advice regarding academic issues to those who were struggling with their studies. Unsurprisingly, given her aptitude for academia, and her desire to help others, Tebogo was accepted as a student of the African Leadership Academy in 2009.

Kate Allan, a woman from the Diamond Empowerment Fund (a non-profit which supports educational initiatives in countries that produce diamonds) met with Tebogo during her visit to the ALA. She described the young student as inspirational, and expressed amazement at the fact that Tebogo was incredibly eloquent, self-assured and mature, in spite of the difficult circumstances in which she was raised. Allan finished by saying that she was confident that Tebogo would be able to create positive change not only within the local community, but also around the continent.

During her two years at the ALA, Tebogo did indeed have a very positive impact on those around her. She offered her opinions at the Thabo Mbeki Youth Foundation Conference – a prestigious event which Tunde Folawiyo is probably familiar with – worked as the student government’s chairlady, and was the Director of Communications for a student-led organisation called OID (Original Idea for Development), which helps disabled children to gain access to mainstream schools.

Her outstanding work whilst at the ALA led to her being accepted into West Virginia University, and receiving a scholarship which has covered the cost of some of her expenses. Speaking of her experience so far, she has said that she is pleased with the subjects offered, and is particularly enjoying her poetry and drama class, as well as her international relations class.