The Ashinaga Africa Initiative (AAI) is an international leadership program that cultivates the next generation of leaders to contribute to the development of sub-Saharan Africa. AAI Scholars have lost one or both parents and are committed to returning to sub-Saharan Africa to initiate change, innovation, and development. The AAI provides financial support for international university degrees, along with leadership training and support to develop Scholars into compassionate changemakers.
Only 6% of young people from sub-Saharan African countries enroll at university. This can fall as low as 2% for those from disadvantaged backgrounds, including those who have lost parents. We believe access to higher education is the most effective way to begin change, and the most effective developments in Africa will be made by Africans. Our challenge is to give Scholars the tools they need to foster their leadership skills and develop action plans to initiate change for the African continent.
We aim to recruit one student from each sub-Saharan African country per year. Then, successful applicants gather for a preparation camp in Uganda. At preparation camp, Ashinaga staff and interns provide resources for Scholars to academically and emotionally thrive at university abroad. There are seven regional offices around the world to support Scholars with day-to-day life, professional development, as well as post-graduation, but this project benefits the preparation camp phrase in Uganda.
The AAI is a leadership program that aims to empower the next generation of African leaders. We expect 90% of students to work in a field that directly contributes to the SDGs. Access to higher education, leadership training, and career development programs will strengthen networks and provide experience. Your support now is an investment in a generation of leaders, committed to dedicating their careers to achieve sustainable development.
