Since its establishment in 2004, the African Leadership Academy has continually sought to encourage youth throughout Africa toward making positive impacts in their respective communities. Nearly a decade has passed since the inaugural class of the academy walked the halls for the first time, about to embark on a new journey that would see them grow into a generation of leaders. Supporters of the institution such as Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others with bright hopes for the African continent may be inspired by the inaugural class of the academy and the wonderful strides they’ve made in the fight for a better Africa.

April 10 and April 11, 2014 saw the ALA host an event honouring its inaugural class and their graduations from esteemed universities and colleges across the globe. Named “ALA Rising”, the event took place at New York’s Public Library where attendees engaged in discussion about Africa’s future leadership and education endeavours, bringing a wide variety of graduates, alumni, staff and supporters together in unity.

In addition to honouring the inaugural class of the ALA and their accomplishments in the decade since its founding, attendees of the event were treated to renowned speakers such as Dzingai Mutumbuka, Chairman of Africa’s educational development association and MasterCard Foundation’s President Reeta Roy. A former editor for Time, Rick Stengel, was also in attendance, speaking of collaborations with the late Nelson Mandela. Amongst the event’s special guests were 30 of ALA’s inaugural class who are currently or have in the past attended colleges across the U.S. With positions at renowned African firms such as IBM, Bain and McKinsey, the young leaders are expected to begin their careers’ next chapter with a great understanding of the issues plaguing the continent. In addition, many of these inaugural classes are expected to pursue graduate degrees at esteemed universities such as Yale and Cornell, amongst others. This continued study will undoubtedly aid the students in preparing for the work to be done throughout Africa with the launch of e-commerce and agricultural ventures in Cote d’Ivoire and Uganda. Their efforts will provide much needed support to millions of citizens throughout Africa, many of whom may be struggling with issues such as extreme poverty, disease and social injustice. Through the continued support of supporters of the ALA, such as Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others hoping to forge an impact in the hope for a brighter Africa, the inaugural class of the ALA will remain an inspiration to future generations of young Africans.