Virtual Programming

To support Alumni’s continued leadership development and strengthen their access to networks and resources, the Fellowship leverages stakeholder and partner expertise to deliver a suite of virtual programming, available on the Fellowship Portal.

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Level-Up Chats

Level-Up Chats provide Alumni with unique access to influential thought leaders and technical experts in an interactive digital format. In addition to boosting Alumni’s professional knowledge and competitiveness in the global marketplace, Level-Up Chats give partners a direct, interactive platform to engage with Alumni and build relationships. They further provide Alumni with a platform to showcase their own expertise by serving as speakers and panelists. Past Level-Up Chats have included open virtual live events and targeted closed sessions via webinars, often designed to complement specific Fellowship courses or other programming.


Knowledge Networks

A group of people, some in wheelchairs, pose for a photo
The first Knowledge Network, centered on engagement of individuals with disabilities, started as a WhatsApp group. The Network now includes over 80 Fellowship Community members from 20 African countries and the United States.

Knowledge Networks are thematic groups formed around a specific topic or challenge in Sub-Saharan Africa, and they provide a platform for long-distance collaboration that empowers members to embrace shared challenges and opportunities.  Knowledge Networks may include Fellowship and Reciprocal Exchange Alumni or Leadership Institute or PDE host staff.  Designed and customized in partnership with participants, tools available to Knowledge Networks may include a LinkedIn group, marketing via the Alumni Fellowship Focus monthly newsletter, and social media, and other tailored resources.

Interested in Forming a Knowledge Network?

Complete the Knowledge Network Interest Form.


Virtual Courses

A young man with a national dress hat on sits in front of a laptop
An Alumnus participates in a virtual event.

After completing their Fellowships, Alumni have access to the Fellowship’s full library of virtual courses on Canvas via the Fellowship Portal.  By completing these online courses, Alumni can earn badges and certificates, sharable on professional platforms like LinkedIn.  Course content is asynchronous and can be completed at the participant’s own pace and on their desired timeline, though some may have synchronous components like a Level-Up Chat.

Fellowship Alumni can log into the Fellowship Portal to access the full virtual course library.