Okiria Emmanuel’s Post

Leadership is GRIT and then everything else Asides just giving back, impact has a way of situating you in the minds of intentional people ready to groom and grow. I’ll do a flash back on my journey just for context. When we had the privilege of sitting under tutors, professors and entrepreneurs in the 4 walls of Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) it was one of the most impactful 21 days I could recall. It was beyond just a journey for inclusion but for a restructure of pattern and thought factor especially in our minds as young leaders. That fact was was obvious when Fareed Ibrahim and I decide to host a group of young persons to network and connect. The Leadership, entrepreneurship and public management initiative was designed to amplify leadership in the private and public industry emphasizing also on how advocacy can be a key drive towards ensuring that impact is a statement made. This was an opportunity for keen learning and growth among young leaders alike, building a community of intentional minds focus on developing a sustainable impact framework. Everything we decided to do, was a replication of the immense teach we had at the Young African Leadership Initiative, West Africa- Accra Ghana. Yes, it was that copy and paste situation. Which brings me to my depiction this morning; - We are not void of entrepreneurial knowledge, we are void of standing on our decisions to make it happen even if it doesn’t come easy. - We are not void of advocates we are simply void of push, because we want to stay pure in the face of the issues/people we should confront. - We are not void of leadership, we just are void of the power to note that legacy isn’t just family it is life around you! I will drop down to say this, everything can be worked upon, and with the right environment and right initiatives we still can make shift the little we feel is not in place. To Young African Leadership Initiative, west Africa RLC we see the efforts you put in for leaders and I am proud to have passed through that system. I also will need to make emphasis on how I’ve learnt that in this journey you will need specific relationships Business/Impact partners and Business/Impact friends. Two of these specifics made the community initiative seamless - because it was simply theory on these until it made happen an effective capacity building and networking event! Here’s a full highlight of the community impact initiative Muknaan David Nshe Richardson Ojeka Dr. Benonia Aryee Mohammed Abdul Hamid, PMP®, PMI-ATP Africado Foundation

I built my character, then built a global network. I've had the privilege of being mentored by some of world's most connected, particularly in the Middle East. Along the way, I’ve gained some valuable insights—and I know a few key individuals who have the capacity to help transform Africa's future for the better. Time to build Africa, I can't do it alone, Welcome to the Farouk Khailann School of African Greatness! (A 3 -months online program) As someone who has walked the path of leadership and entrepreneurship across Africa and the globe, I have come to realize that true greatness is not in individual success but in the ability to uplift others and create a lasting impact. It is with this belief that I founded this school—a platform designed not just to impart knowledge but to nurture and mentor the next generation of African business leaders. My vision is simple: I want those who pass through this institution to surpass my achievements and rise as transformative leaders, propelling Africa to new heights. Africa is brimming with potential, and the global business community is taking notice. Yet, this potential can only be fully realized when we cultivate leaders who not only understand the intricacies of business but are also rooted in strong values, resilience, and the ability to innovate in the face of challenges. Here at the Farouk Khailann School of African Greatness, we are committed to equipping you with the tools, guidance, and mentorship necessary to harness these opportunities and become the trailblazers who will drive Africa’s socio-economic transformation. Those who enroll and excel in this program will gain unparalleled access to my personal network, a global circle of high-net-worth individuals, industry leaders, and investors. This is more than just a promise of mentorship—this is your gateway to a world of opportunities. As you progress and demonstrate excellence, you will also play an integral role in the investments I bring into Africa, actively contributing to projects that drive real economic growth across the continent. This is more than a school. It is a movement—one that seeks to inspire and empower a generation of leaders who will not only excel in their businesses but will also be catalysts for positive change in their communities, their countries, and the continent at large. Our programs are designed to help you unlock your full potential, sharpen your leadership skills, and give you the global outlook needed to thrive in today’s interconnected world. My goal is for you to graduate not just as capable business leaders, but as visionaries who will redefine Africa’s future. I want you to be greater than I ever was, to take the lessons from my journey, build on them, and chart a course for your own greatness. Welcome to the journey. Your time to make history starts here. Register here https://lnkd.in/dS3N9mTs Sincerely, Farouk Khailann Founder, Farouk Khailann School of African Greatness

Shortly after graduating, I aimed to join the YALI Regional Leadership Center East Africa program, inspired by its mission to empower young African leaders. My first application ended with a regret email: "Dear Robert, The YALI RLC East Africa Admissions Selection Committee has carefully reviewed your application. After much consideration, we regret to inform you that we are unable to offer you a place in the program." Though a setback, it fueled my resolve to grow and reapply. This year, I did—and received the email every applicant would anticipate: "Dear Robert, On behalf of the Admissions Committee, we are pleased to offer you a place as a participant in the YALI RLC EA Program. Accepted for: Cohort 58." Six weeks after graduating, I reflect on this transformative journey. #YALI wasn’t just training; it was a deep dive into leadership, collaboration, and cultural diversity. Courses like #EffectiveLeadership and The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People refined my clarity and purpose. The habits—being: #Proactive, #BeginningWithTheEndinMind, #PuttingFirstThingsFirst, #ThinkingWin_Win, #SeekingToUnderstandThentobeUnderstood, #Synergizing, and #SharpeningtheSaw—helped refine my clarity and purpose as a leader. The Business & Entrepreneurship track reshaped my approach with tools like Empathy Maps, Value Proposition Design, and the #BusinessCanvasModel. Sessions in Pitch Deck Development, Prototyping, and #Negotiation were invaluable—especially learning about #BATNA (Best Alternative To a Negotiated Agreement) and #ZOPA (Zone of Possible Agreement), which provide insights into both buyer and seller perspectives. Cross-cutting modules like #DesignThinking, #Diversity, #Equity, and #Inclusion, and #ThisIsAfrica reinforced the importance of inclusive, forward-thinking leadership. Completing #YALI reminded me that resilience and persistence turn dreams into reality. It’s a journey I’ll treasure for the connections, lessons, and inspiration to drive change. #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #AfricaForward #Learning YALI Regional Leadership Center East Africa YALI Regional Leadership Center - West Africa - Dakar YALI Regional Leadership Center Southern Africa YALI Regional Leadership Center West Africa, Accra YALI RLC-SA USAID Arizona State University YALI Network YALI Africa YALI RLC EA - Alumni Chapter of Kenya

One of the most underrated things in Africa is Mentorship. Many of our Politician,Business executives and Technocrats don't see Mentoring the next generational leaders. As you read this, do not let your knowledge and experience die with you. If you’ve been through battles, learned skills, and gained wisdom, it’s your responsibility to pass that on your mentees. Each lesson you’ve learned, each mistake you’ve made, and every success you’ve fought for holds value beyond your life. Find younger men and women who are hungry for growth—mentor them, teach them what you know. This isn’t just about advice; it’s about legacy. Too often, men hoard their wisdom and experience, keeping it locked away as if it were only for them. But what good is it if it disappears when you’re gone? Skills, knowledge, experience, and grit must be duplicated if they’re to have any lasting impact. Build warriors, not just followers. Show them how to handle life’s punches, how to navigate through chaos, how to build real resilience. Today, Politicians and business executives who are nurturing young people are building fortresses. At certain level and age, you should be able to count young people who are privileged to have you as a mentor. In whatever you do, your biggest investment is investing in people’s development , albeit some might end up being ungrateful. A strong legacy is a line of men who share in your knowledge, your strength, and your values. If we want a generation of strong, purposeful men, then every seasoned man has a duty to pass down the tools that will make them unbreakable. Let your mind live on in others, creating a chain of power and purpose that can’t be broken. That’s how real men leave their mark. By Lantam Abdul-jabar

Week 3 day 3 at Yali RLC West Africa: The Day We Learned to Laugh and Build Together It was a busy day in our group project. We were all working hard, trying to come up with the best possible solution. But we had two different groups, each with their own ideas. It was like two groups of people who really liked different things, trying to make one thing together. It was tricky! We were all nervous because we had to choose which idea was best. It was like we had to vote for one idea over the other. But nobody wanted to vote for the other group's idea. It was like a game where nobody wanted to give in. Then, something funny happened. Our coach made a joke about how we were all going to fail if we couldn't agree. We all started laughing, and it made us think differently. We realized that it wasn't about winning, it was about learning and working together. So, we started talking to each other. We listened to each other's ideas and tried to understand them. We realized that even though we liked different things, we could learn from each other. We worked together and came up with an idea that was a mix of both groups' ideas. It wasn't perfect, but it was good because we all worked together to make it happen. That day taught me a really important lesson. Sometimes, the best way to solve a problem is to work together and listen to each other. Even when we have different ideas, we can learn from each other and make something amazing happen. It's like a puzzle! When you have a big puzzle, it's hard to put it together alone. But if you work with someone else, you can see the picture from different angles and make it work. Teamwork makes the dream work! #TeamworkMakesTheDreamWork #CollaborationIsKey #CompromiseIsPower #InnovationThroughCollaboration #GroupProjects #LessonsLearned #ThePowerOfPerspective #DiversityOfThought #Innovation #Leadership #YoungLeaders #LearningByDoing #EmbraceTheChallenge #TheArtOfCompromise #UnleashTheCreativity #BuildingRelationships #CommunicationSkills #ProblemSolving #CreativeSolutions #TeamworkGoals #TeamworkGoals #YaliRLC #WestAfrica #YaliNetwork YALI Regional Leadership Center West Africa, Accra YALI West Africa Alumni Cameroon USAID Mastercard Foundation Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA)UNESCO Yaounde

In the realm of leadership development in Africa, a disheartening reality has emerged. Despite dedicated efforts to nurture and empower leaders, a pervasive issue persists: African leaders often prove to be a stumbling block rather than a catalyst for progress. This realization comes sharply into focus when attempts to engage them for support or collaboration yield indifferent responses at best, or outright dismissal at worst.Cold emails seeking support are casually discarded into the bin, or met with dismissive and negative reactions. Even requests for recommendations are met with evasion or manipulation, as some leaders resort to what can only be described as "African tricks" to avoid genuine engagement.The irony is palpable. Organizations such as the African Union, United Nations, and Yali network invest considerable resources in training and equipping these leaders, with the hope that they will emerge as change agents for human capital development. However, the outcomes often fall short of expectations, leaving behind a trail of wasted efforts and unfulfilled promises.In reflecting on this predicament, it becomes evident that the root cause lies not only in the actions of individual leaders, but in the prevailing mindset that underpins leadership in Africa. The perpetuation of outdated paradigms and entrenched systems hampers progress and stifles innovation, perpetuating a cycle of stagnation.It is time to acknowledge that our current reality is a product of our collective thinking. To break free from this cycle, a paradigm shift is essential. We must move away from traditional notions of leadership and embrace a more inclusive, collaborative, and forward-thinking approach.This begins by reimagining leadership development programs to incorporate not only technical skills but also critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and emotional intelligence. Empowering leaders to navigate complex challenges with integrity and empathy is paramount in building a resilient and sustainable future for Africa.By fostering a culture of accountability, we can mitigate the risks of corruption and mismanagement that have plagued many African nations.Ultimately, the path to effective leadership in Africa requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders – governments, civil society, the private sector, and international organizations. Only through collaboration and collective action can we overcome the obstacles that impede progress and unlock the full potential of the continent.In conclusion, while the challenges of leadership in Africa are daunting, they are not insurmountable. By challenging conventional wisdom and embracing a new paradigm of leadership, we can chart a course towards a brighter future for Africa and its people. It is time to seize the opportunity for change and forge a path towards a more prosperous and equitable continent.

Jasiri Network Community Spotlight: Handerson Mwandembo Meet Handerson Mwandembo a Vice President in Investment Banking in New York, USA. "Luck has played a great role in my life, and still does. Perhaps, I'm most grateful for the great examples, tutelage and advice from a motley collection of mentors, colleagues and leaders. My first encounter was helping facilitate a professional book club curated for business leaders, across East Africa. The professional service ran over two years and through more than twenty-eight sessions, most of which I was still an undergraduate student at the University of Nairobi. The second inflection point happened when I was seconded to the U.K, as part of a leadership development program. The change, pardon the cliché, expanded my horizon – not only offering me an opportunity to work on complex engagements, but also broadened my network. I draw great lessons, examples and friendships from my time in the U.K. and remain in touch with former colleagues – all of whom, who have had some great achievements since then. The most recent fortunate linkage was the choice to go to business school. Attending Wharton was pivotal in enabling my career shift to Investment Banking and still has an outsized influence in many of my professional and social interactions in New York. Reflecting on my experiences, I think a lot about how best to expand the lucky sequences and the opportunity set to others. One dimension, where the distortive effect of luck and arbitrary advantages preoccupies my mind is in allocation of capital – particularly across Africa, this remains a problem I dwell on a lot." #JasiriNetwork #ProfessionalAfricanDiasporainUK

Reflecting on Day 2 of the #EducationChangemakers program by YALI Regional Leadership Center East Africa and Trevor Noah Foundation 🌍 Today, we delved into the power of teamwork and its impact on organizational growth. Our incredible facilitators provided valuable insights and guidance, highlighting the importance of collaboration in achieving our goals. Here are some key takeaways: ✨ We have abundant resources, opportunities, and solutions at our disposal. 👉 By harnessing the power of teamwork, we can effectively utilize these resources to drive meaningful change. ✨ Care, empathy, and active listening are essential qualities for successful teams. 👉 By understanding and respecting each other's perspectives, we create an environment where ideas flourish and diverse talents thrive. ✨ Fearlessness is a crucial attribute of a leader. 👉 With unwavering determination and a positive mindset, we can overcome setbacks and challenges along our journey. ✨ Celebrating one another's milestones is vital for team cohesion and motivation. By recognizing and appreciating each other's achievements, we foster a supportive and uplifting atmosphere. I am immensely grateful to YALI RLC East Africa, Trevor Noah Foundation, Lukenya Getaway, USAID Kenya, and all other partners involved for providing this incredible opportunity. Hi 🙋♂️, my name's Jay Nyembo. I am the founder of FutureGen Academy. We empower young people aged 8-18 from low income families in Dr Congo, Lubumbashi with knowledge and opportunities to thrive. If you're passionate about education and want to learn more about how you can support us, feel free to reach out for more information. Together, we are shaping the future of education and making a lasting impact on young minds. Let's continue to learn, grow, and inspire change! #EducationChangemakers #Teamwork #Leadership #PositiveMindset #Gratitude

𝐀𝐫𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐨𝐧 𝐚 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞-𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐣𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭? Application call for cohorts 57,58 & 59 is Now Open! YALI Regional Leadership Center East Africa is more than just a program; it's a community of passionate, driven individuals committed to shaping the future of our beloved continent. we've experienced firsthand the profound impact YALI has had on our alumni and the communities that they serve. Now, it's your turn to join this incredible network of change-makers. 𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐘𝐀𝐋𝐈 𝐑𝐋𝐂 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐀𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚? 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩: YALI equips you with the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to lead positive change in your community and beyond. 𝐃𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲: Connect with like-minded individuals from various backgrounds, fostering collaboration and understanding. 𝐏𝐚𝐧-𝐀𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Gain insights into continental challenges and solutions, shaping your leadership with a broader perspective. 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬: Develop practical skills in areas such as : Entrepreneurship, Public Management, Civic Leadership, and more. 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐲 https://bit.ly/3TPhaCw Know someone who embodies leadership and resilience? Tag them, share this post, and help us reach young leaders eager to make a difference. 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞: 31st May 2024 5:00PM EAT #YALIRLCEA #LeadershipDevelopment #Cohort55and56 #AfricaRising #ChangeMakers #TransformativeLeadership #ApplyNow #YALIAlumni USAID's Kenya Investment Mechanism The Coca-Cola Company YALI Africa Safaricom PLC U.S. Department of State Trevor Noah Foundation Kenyatta University University of Iowa Microsoft