Those who know of the African Leadership Academy like Tunde Folawiyo, may be aware that this institute takes quite a unique approach to education; in addition to providing its students with theoretical and practical lessons, it also prepares them for the future, by helping them to determine which career path to take, and which universities and courses would be best suited to their needs. In short, those working at the academy do everything in their power to assist students in realising their academic and professional goals.
At a recent ALA graduation ceremony, the father of one of the graduates, Barbara Kotei, noted that his daughter’s time at the academy had not only given her more confidence in her own abilities, but had made her more certain of what it is that she wants to do with her life.
The support offered to Barbara during her time at the ALA led to her applying for, and being accepted into the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program, an initiative which provides talented young people who are struggling financially with the means needed to study at the world’s top universities. Anyone with an interest in education, such as Tunde Folawiyo, will be familiar with this program; made up of a network of non-governmental organisations, educational institutions and of course, young students, its aim is to contribute to the development of a more prosperous and equitable Africa.
Barbara had been dreaming of going to Michigan State University for some time, and had even visited the campus, and met with the admissions team. However, although she hoped to go on to third-level education, it was only after working with the ALA’s university support team that she began to believe that such a thing was possible. Prior to attending the academy, her lack of financial means had been a barrier which she did not know how to overcome. But thanks to the support of the ALA, and the scholarship she received from the MasterCard Foundation, she is now studying molecular biology and biochemistry at Michigan State University.
In an interview, Barbara explained that giving back to society was an important part of the scholarship; she hopes to do this by working within the public health sector, as she has noticed a number of problematic loopholes in the healthcare system, which need to be addressed.
The African Leadership Academy has long sought to promote the success of the next generation of young African leaders, employing a variety of initiatives to further their reach. Amongst these initiatives is the founding of the ALA’s Gap Year Programme, one that sees students from all over the continent come together in solidarity to attempt to battle the social issues plaguing the continent today. With the 
Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others throughout the African continent may recognise these social icons as some of the most revered to ever come from the region.
and other groups in a quest to offer students a range of thrilling opportunities. There are myriad ways to make a contribution to the success of the academy. These may include donations of funds, volunteering to be a valued host family to students, or offering the opportunity of internships. Each contribution serves as a valued tool in promoting Africa’s leadership and growth through the academy.
With its mission of fostering the continued growth of young African leaders, the African Leadership Academy has announced the launching of the continent’s Africa Careers Network, which will serve as a place of gathering for career information. Partnered with MasterCard Foundation, the network will strive to connect the Academy’s promising youth with a variety of internship and career opportunities across the continent. The African Leadership Academy’s Careers and Internships Department established the web portal in the hopes of ensuring each student and alumni has adequate access to the tools needed to form successful careers upon graduation. In addition to a list of internship opportunities available across Africa, the web portal will also include testimonials from former employees and interns who’ve also spent time in those positions, offering students a unique perspective of what can be expected. Those involved with the network will also be given access to career information and guidance via the site’s Learning Centre, which will offer lessons on a range of topics from professional dress codes to email writing etiquette.
student body. The summer programme seeks to offer participants the entire ALA experience, inspiring teens throughout Africa to reach for brighter futures for the communities that surround them. Students attending the GSP will conclude their journey with a variety of newfound skills and a fresh perspective on life.
In its efforts to provide an exceptional learning experience for students, the ALA has recently become part of the Global Online Academy, a special online community consisting of 50 international institutions including Eton College, Dalton School, King’s Academy and HK International School.
Another ALA graduate, by the name of Hafsa Anouar, was also awarded a $10,000 cash prize by the Davis foundation, after he organised a 10-day summer event entitled ‘National Entrepreneurial Camp’ in Morocco. The camp was designed to help teens aged between 16 and 19 to get to grips with the basics of entrepreneurialism, with the view that this would help to address the country’s issue of youth unemployment over the coming years. Those involved in the world of business, like Tunde Folawiyo, will understand the importance, and the value of this type of initiative.
Africa for future generations. Tunde Folawiyo and thousands of others have already begun contributing to the ALA and its endeavours. Citizens from all over the world are welcome to become involved in a greater future for Africa by volunteering time, internships or monetary donations to the thousands of students who benefit from the ALA’s teachings each year.