On September 26th, during the United Nations General Assembly 2024, CorpsAfrica had the distinct honor of hosting a remarkable evening at Rockefeller Center, Inc. in New York City, celebrating the inspiring stories and leadership of African youth. 🌍✨
The theme of the evening; African Youth Driving Transformative Change, highlighted the critical role young people play in shaping Africa's future, and it was a night filled with commitment, reflection, and hope.
The evening began with a powerful spoken word performance by Okechukwu Iweala, whose words captured the essence of youth leadership and set the tone for the night.
🎤 This was followed by a warm welcome from CorpsAfrica Founder and CEO, Liz Fanning, who greeted our esteemed dignitaries, guests, and friends of CorpsAfrica, acknowledging their continued support for our mission.
We were honoured to have Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, U.S. Representative to the United Nations, as our keynote speaker. Her inspiring words on the importance of youth leadership and community-driven development in Africa resonated deeply with all in attendance.
She reminded us of Africa's pivotal role in the future of our world, stating:
"By 2050, 1 in 4 people on the planet will be African. African countries are experiencing what some have called a 'Youthquake.' One that brings tremendous opportunity."
Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield has been a staunch advocate for Africa’s growth and development, and we are deeply grateful for her presence and support. 🌟
A special highlight of the evening was the presentation of the CorpsAfrica Award to H.E. Madam ELLEN JOHNSON SIRLEAF, former President of Liberia and the first woman elected head of state in Africa. Her legacy as a trailblazer for women in leadership and her dedication to African youth continue to inspire generations. We are profoundly grateful to Madam Sirleaf for her invaluable contributions and for gracing our event with her presence. 🙌🏽
The event also gave us the opportunity to showcase the powerful stories of the CorpsAfrica Alumni Network, who continue to make a profound impact across Africa:
🇲🇦 Mourad Abdennebi - CorpsAfrica/Maroc Alumnus, 2014
🇲🇦 Hiba Tazi - CorpsAfrica/Maroc Alumna, 2013
🇲🇼 Billy Makombola - CorpsAfrica/Malawi Alumnus, 2019
Their personal journeys and commitment to driving community change reminded us of the tremendous potential that lies within Africa’s youth. 🌱
We would like to extend our heartfelt thank you to Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the U.S. Mission to the United Nations, H.E. Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, and all the dignitaries, guests, and friends of CorpsAfrica who joined us for this special evening.
At CorpsAfrica, we are proud to stand alongside these changemakers and witness the transformative power of volunteerism and youth leadership.
Together, through local communities and volunteers, we are igniting a sustainable future for Africa.
#ThisIsCorpsAfrica