Spanning almost three decades, the Angolan Civil War displaced millions of people and devastated agricultural production. Even though the conflict ended 15 years ago, the...
International exchange programs and the opportunity for U.S. businesses
Many view international exchange programs primarily as benefiting U.S. foreign policy objectives. Foreign students brought to the United States return to their home countries with...
Helping a young leader advocate for LGBT health care in Africa
Activists such as Dr. Anastacia Tomson of South Africa tirelessly advocate for transgender health rights. The Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders helps change-makers like her to...
Paralympian promotes inclusion in Zimbabwe
“I’ve always wanted to control my successes and failures,” says Nyasha Mharakurwa, a wheelchair tennis player who represented Zimbabwe at the London 2012 Paralympic Games. “When...
Young African leaders who are leading by example
The Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders is not just the name of a program—it is the continuation of Nelson Mandela’s legacy of leadership, peace, and...
The Pearls of Africa: Mildred Apenyo
2014 Fellowship Alumnus Mildred Apenyo founded an all-women's gym in Uganda, where women can take part in yoga, kick boxing, discussions, and personal safety classes.
Believe and Strive: Leading the Way for People with Albinism
At the time of his Fellowship in 2015, Joel Tchombosi was already a leader in his community in southern Angola. He started a group for...
When she sings about her rights, the president listens
2015 Fellowship Alumna Grace Jerry, a Nigerian gospel singer, has a big voice, and when performing at the 2015 Mandela Washington Fellowship Summit, she took...
Paying it forward: Encouraging young entrepreneurs in Nigeria
“We’ve been given [this] opportunity so that we can give opportunities to other people on the continent,” said Temitayo Etomi, reflecting on her 2014 Mandela Washington Fellowship...