African Leaders Magazine - Faces of the Future

AFRICAN LEADERS MAGAZINECOMMEMORATIVE SUMMIT ISSUE

F A C E SO F T H EFUTURE

AUGUST 2014

To donate, join, or find out more, please visit www.the3as.org

About The African Artists’ AssociationThe African Artists’ Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Hollywood, California. We are a globally diverse, international talent pool of business minded artists and industry professionals from a broad spectrum of disciplines, including actors, producers, filmmakers, writers, dancers, singers, models, photographers and musicians; post-production specialists, art department, entertainment business and legal professionals who are supportive of the mission of the organization.

Mission StatementThe mission of the African Artists’ Association is to inspire and facilitate the meaningful creation, dissemination and progression of images and artistic cultural representation of people of African Heritage and the African Diaspora. Our organization is committed to providing empowering information, educational tools, an invaluable database and a contact point for artists affiliated to the African Diaspora, located here in Hollywood and globally.

Objectives1. To maintain a professional resource database that

would allow 3As members access to synergistic, creative, professional connections with fellow artists, relevant companies and organizations.

2. Encourage and support innovative and inclusive forms of artistic expression. Including those with outreach into the broader African Diaspora and wherever internationally relevant.

3. Provide monthly guest speaker seminars and/or workshop presentations to empower our members to move forward within their fields of activity, while broadening their knowledge and insight of their business.

4. Present opportunities for 3As members to expand their areas of focus, or find the right collaborative opportunities through local and global networking.

5. Provide an accessible monthly community forum for our members.

6. Provide a safe space community to nurture and support new, emerging or established African Diaspora talent and our specific needs.

7. To actively promote dialogue, creative ideas, synergy and creative opportunities between Artists from the African Diaspora and other global creatives – irrespective of creed, color, race, gender, sexual orientation or political affiliation.

8. The 3As will provide an accessible, progressive conduit between African Diaspora Artists and the global business community.

9. Support and where possible facilitate screenings and productions that support our mission statement.

Tambay Obenson launched Shadow And Act in 2009 after self-financing and releasing his first feature and forming a

distribution company, inspired by the lack of awareness of independent films

about people of African descent.

Follow him on Twitter @TambayObenson

3@TheAfricaFuture • USAFRICASUMMIT.COM

Corporate social responsibility, sustainable development, and locally manufactured are all great aspects that many entrepreneurs are

utilizing to align their businesses with their ideals. Many times, notions of fancy innovation and trendy products are associated with these concepts. But, that doesn’t have to be so, and Jesper Wieder, Founder of Back to My School, is on a mission to spread that message.

His concept is simple: Back to My School sells uniforms, clothing and apparel to colleges, clubs, and organizations and then donates 20% back to whichever organization, foundation, or school the customer chooses.

Following in the footsteps of companies like Tom’s and Warby Parker, that give a pair of shoes or eyeglasses

for each pair purchased, Wieder takes the concept of direct donation a step further. He allows the customer to choose the recipient of the cash donation, noting that often times the money can be used for other more pressing matters. Regardless of the specifics, these companies have established specific tenants built around giving back a sizable portion of profits.

It is a simple concept, but Wieder and Back to My School have applied this innovative approach to a typically static industry: direct purchasing of uniforms. His startup is an example of how a successful concept from a high-end, glamorous industry can be used to shake things up in a typically more basic stagnant one.

To find out more about Jesper Wieder and Back to My School, visit backtomyschool.us

Businesses that Give:Back to My School

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WESET, LLC and The African Artists’ Association PresentDuring US Africa Leader’s Summit

At the House of Goodwill

FILM FESTIVALFASHION SHOW

BUSINESSES ROUNDTABLEFOOD & DRINKSENTERTAINMENT

& MORE

Register at [email protected]

Scan to download app:


Throughout the development of entrepreneurs and innovation, a startup movement needs a steward to aggregate, validate, and disseminate the best ideas, people, and companies to the masses. All too often, the best innovations and innovators get lost amidst the mass amount of news, run into the same mistakes, and could have learned from those who came before. But, what are the best pieces of advice, innovations, and startups to look for?

That’s where BUSINESS ROCKSTARS comes in with its powerful, fun, fast-paced 2-hour daily show. Bringing in the most interesting and exciting personalities in business from fast rising entrepreneurs to big name CEO’s, the show delves into their adventures in STARTING, GROWING AND FUNDING a

business. Not only the successes—real stories from billion dollar startups—but also the business train-wrecks.

Celebrating its second anniversary, Business Rockstars Radio is THE national radio show to tune in to that provides the road map in a very entertaining and informative way to the millions of “WANTREPRENEURS,” those that are interested in becoming entrepreneurs but simply don’t know how.

Founded by Ken Rutkowski and the cutting-edge talk radio legend Steve Lehman, the show airs live Monday through Friday on CRN Digital Talk Radio(www.crntalk.com) and a live video feed at WGN.FM.

BUSINESS ROCKSTARS

Editor in ChiefClifton Smith III

Content EditorsKate GellerHelen Sharp

ContributorsShari AlexanderAnnie BrussEd Colman‘JabuJennifer KenningErin NewmanSteven OjoChirag SagarKate TerrillAugust Thompson

Layout EditorAndy Dunn

PublishersLanre IdewuClifton Smith III

AFRICAN LEADERS MAGAZINECOMMEMORATIVE SUMMIT ISSUE

F A C E SO F T H EFUTURE

CONTENTS Businesses that Give: Back to My School

Business Rockstars

Agenda of Events

Impact Investing

US Delegates

Women Impactors Worldwide

Learn Faster: Adaptive Practice through BrainRush

The 3 Stages of Being Highly Influential

Mission:Results Provides Model to Change

Remembering Madiba

African Heads of State

The Favored Four: African Women Changing the World

Contributors

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Editor in ChiefClifton Smith III

Content EditorsKate GellerHelen Sharp

ContributorsShari AlexanderAnnie BrussEd Colman‘JabuJennifer KenningErin NewmanSteven OjoChirag SagarKate TerrillAugust Thompson

Layout EditorAndy Dunn

PublishersLanre IdewuClifton Smith III

“Investing in the Next Generation” is not just the theme of the 2014 US Africa Leaders Summit, it is a powerful and effective frame of mind for us all to work together. Investment of money, time, and attention are all facets required within this framework; however, the most important and most difficult to master is investment in relationships and others.

President Barack Obama, his Cabinet members, over 50 African leaders, and key business representatives from the United States and Africa have declared their investment in relationships with one another. This unprecedented, historical event is not just about talking points and symbolic gestures, but also about real steps towards bettering the next generation.

Our focus of the issue, “Faces of the Future,” ties-in perfectly with the theme of the Summit. Our aim is to highlight the key politicians, entrepreneurs, and ideas necessary to collaborate together to set the stage for the future. It also serves as a guide through the week and to be used as a reference beyond the Summit.

Perhaps the thing we are most excited for is The House of Goodwill hosted by WESET and The African Artists’ Association [a 501(c) 3]. With nearly 6,000 sq. ft. of space, including a swimming pool, sun decks, pool table, koi ponds, and waterfall, this spectacular, one-

of-a-kind house is hidden among the most desirable neighborhoods in D.C. But what we are most excited about is that it will play host to a week full of events and activities including a fashion show, film festival, technology showcase, and entertainment—all from prominent African and African American designers, producers, chefs, musicians, and businesses.

With stories of world icons, innovative technologies, and more, we hope you enjoy this commemorative issue.

The summit, this issue, and African Leaders Magazine does not end here. We are continuing to collaborate, discuss, and highlight great leaders, visionaries, and entrepreneurs beyond this momentous event to bring actual change. We will continue our efforts in print, online at the usafricasummit.com, and on social media to encourage, highlight, and spur action. We look forward to engaging with you and working towards the Africa future.

Facebook African Leaders Magazine

Instagram @theAfricaFuture

Twitter @theAfricaFuture

Online AfricanLeadersMagazine.com

U.S. / AFRICA2014

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AGENDA OF EVENTS

1/3/4/

Peace and Securityin Central Africa Talk12:15

Ikia SN Foundation A Night forEducation Cocktail & Dinner19:00

Civil Society Forum08:30

Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum09:00

Power Africa Event12:00

Investing in Women, Peace,and Africa’s Future Working Luncheon12:30

Resilience and Food Securityin a Changing Climate14:15

Combating Wildlife Trafficking14:15

Congressional Receptionfor African Leaders16:00

The African Diaspora Bridge Builders Awards Silent Auction17:30

The National Press Club, 13th Floor529 14th St. NWWashington, DC 20045

Renaissance Washington DC999 9th Street NWWashington DC 20001

National Academy of Sciences2101 Constitution Ave NWWashington, DC 20418

The World Bank1818 H St NWWashington, DC 20418

Grand Hyatt Hotel1000 H St NWWashington, DC




Kennedy Caucus Room2 Constitution Ave NEWashington DC, 20002

The Washington Marriott775 12th Street NWWashington, DC 20005

AUGU

STAU

GUST

AUGU

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The African Diaspora Bridge Builders Awards Dinner & Awards18:30

U.S.-Africa Business Forum08.00

White House Dinner on theOccasion of the U.S.-AfricaLeaders Summit18:00

Spousal Program hosted by First Lady Michelle Obama, Mrs. Laura Bush and the Bush Institute10:00

Session 1: Investing inAfrica’s Future10:00

Family Photo forHeads of Delegation12:00

Session 2: Peace andRegional Stability12:30

Session 3: Governing forthe Next Generation14:30

The President’s Press Conference17:00

Achieving a Successful Post 2015Development Agenda10:30

The Washington Marriott775 12th Street NWWashington, DC 20005

Mandarin Oriental Hotel1330 Maryland Ave SWWashington, DC 20024

The White House1600 Pennsylvania Ave NWWashington, DC 20500

The John F Kennedy Center forthe Performing Arts2700 F St NWWashington, DC 20566

Harry S Truman Building2201 C Street, NWWashington, DC






AUGUSTAUGUST

AUGUST


12 @TheAfricaFuture • USAFRICASUMMIT.COM

Millennials and entrepreneurs are not only shaking up the world of business with new ideas and approaches to almost everything; they are starting to change the game in the world of philanthropy.

With $41 trillion in wealth expected to pass to the next generation over the next 40 years, impact investing is emerging as a strong trend among Millennials committed to solving the world’s social and environmental problems while generating a financial return. For Millenials, it’s an emphasis on a double bottom line: financial return plus social impact.

Making money in the first half of their life and giving it away in the second half is not for this next generation. They want to be actively involved right now, in both their investment decisions and in their philanthropy.

As impact investors, Millennials and successful entrepreneurs realize they can make a real difference in helping to solve some of the world’s greatest problems. In effect, they can be the bridge that aligns capital and human resources to address pervasive global issues. These emerging and established philanthropists know that solid facts exist to support the argument that governments and nonprofits alone can’t solve these

ImpactInvestingAligning Capital andHuman Resourcesto Solve Global Problems

Jennifer Kenning

global problems. What’s called for is partnership and collaboration in the private sector – just what Millennials love and entrepreneurs rely on for their success.

To be clear, impact investing is not socially responsible investing. In the latter case, investors put a ‘socially responsible’ positive or negative screen on their portfolio to include or exclude investment options that do or do not match their values. Impact investing is so much more.

Typically focused on social and environmental issues, impact investing enables investors to use their capital to actively create positive change or to finance market-based solutions to these challenges. Importantly, it is a way for individuals to synchronize their goals and values with their investment and charitable objectives.

There are two types of impact investors. “Financial First” investors seek to optimize financial returns with a floor for social or environmental impact. These investors tend to consist of commercial investors who search for investment vehicles that offer market-rate returns while yielding some social or environmental good. “Impact First” investors want to optimize social or environmental returns with a financial floor. This group uses social or environmental good as a primary objective and may accept a range of returns from tax benefits to return of principal, market rate or slightly below market rate, depending on the situation.

Let’s take a deeper dive into Africa. At the current electrification rate of 23%, approximately 6.2 million households in Kenya lack access to electricity. This hinders productivity as it limits daily activities such as schoolwork, household chores, and business at night or in the early morning. This population incurs sizable daily fuel expenditures, with three quarters of Kenyan households (6.2 mm homes) spending $0.42 on average per day on kerosene fuel. M-Kopa’s pay-per-


use purchase model spreads the price of a solar home system out over several months, allowing consumers to redirect wasteful daily spending on kerosene and other lighting sources towards gradual ownership of a better value system. The M-Kopa solution is a high-quality solar home system that supports three LED lights and a charger to charge a mobile phone, which customers acquire with small daily payments by mobile phone. To buy most solar systems outright is out of reach for people earning $5/day or so. So their most popular pricing model is a price per day, roughly equal to what they’re paying for kerosene. After paying for 365 days of energy, they own the system outright.

One of the most innovative components of M-Kopa’s system is that each unit has a built-in SIM card, allowing them to check on each owner’s energy usage, balance, and payment history. They send a SMS message when credit has run out, and to confirm a received payment. This system will allow them to even lend money back to people once they own their system outright, as mobile phone balances are a very common form of banking. They know that quite a few of their buyers are charging phones throughout the day, while many are only drawing energy from the system at night to provide lighting. In future, M-Kopa plans to bring out other appliances that work only with their chargers, such as refrigerators, TV’s and higher power outlet strips. They don’t want users plugging in any old TV or fridge, as many of the older ones would drain the battery in an hour or less. They have very healthy margins on the units themselves, so if they can keep their dealer network growing, they’ll have a bright future.

As an impact investor, we are looking for investment opportunities that put Africa on the grid and provide them with light among other resources. Lack of access to electricity is both a cause and an effect of unremitting poverty, and create vital access to clean energy technology by investing in solutions that provide sustainable income and social benefits.

Based on currently available research, there is a vast market opportunity for impact investing. Data published by the “Gateways to Impact Report,” a collaboration of leading entities in the sector, believes that there is a $650 billion market potential for impact investing. Other estimates for this market run as high as $1 trillion. We know that there is solid interest and engagement from individual investors, and that will only increase over time. As the impact investing sector grows, more data will become available that demonstrates that investors can generate a financial return while simultaneously making a global impact.

Impact investing is still in its infancy, but with the world as it is today, all hands are needed on deck to come together in a meaningful, collaborative way to create new solutions to some very old problems. Impact investing uniquely provides investors, philanthropists, fund developers and financial advisors with the opportunity to make a profound difference in the world without sacrificing loss of control or financial return.

What can you do to make an impact?

Jennifer is an award-winning advisor serving high net-worth individuals and families. Combining her desire to help and passion for financial management, Jennifer is leading Aspiriant’s charge into impact investing helping to build the Philanthropy and Impact Platform. On a recent social benefit immersion trip to Kenya and Uganda she experienced firsthand social enterprises aimed at delivering a double bottom line: solving social challenges while generating financial returns. Jennifer is also a sought after speaker and presenter in the impact investing and social enterprise space. She can be reached via email [email protected]


PLANE

AIRLIFTING HOPET O T H E V E R Y L A S T M I L E

Global Flight Relief provides humanitarian relief and emergency response through the application of aviation resources. Global Flight Relief is a bridge, extending the

reach of humanitarian assistance providers and emergency responders, bringing help to those who need it most—anywhere in the world.

Global Flight Relief is a 501c(3) non-profit registered in the United States (Tax ID 45-2753394).

Donate today!

Bryan was born with an incomplete esophagus. Global Flight Relief transported him from Belize City to Richmond, VA where he had life-saving surgery and his mother was able to breast feed him for the first time.

Richard returned from hospice where he received chemotherapy for life-threatening cancer. Global Flight Relief transported him from Houston, TX to Greenville, SC to spend his final days close to his family.

globalflightrelief.org

Esperance was injured by the rebel militia and spent six days in labor without medical assistance. Her baby died, and she was left with an obstetric fistula. Global Flight Relief transported her from the Congo to Goma for surgical repair.

UNITED STATESDELEGATES

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U.S. Delegates

@TheAfricaFuture • USAFRICASUMMIT.COM

BARACKOBAMABarack Obama is the 44th and current President of the United States. He was elected in 2008 as the first African American to hold the nation’s highest office and is currently serving his second term. Over the course of his presidency, Obama has focused primarily on Health-care reform, launching the Affordable Care Act in 2014, and advocacy for clean energy. In 2008, he was named Time’s Person of the Year, and in 2009 won the Nobel Peace Prize for his extensive efforts to improve international diplomacy.

United States

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U.S. Delegates


JOHN F.KERRYJohn F. Kerry joined the State Department in 2013 as the 68th United States Secretary of State. For the bulk of his political career, Kerry served the United States Senate and was elected to Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in 2009 where he assumed a leadership role on issues of national security and global climate change. In 2004, Kerry was chosen as the Democratic Party’s nominee for President. Kerry is the author of bestselling books, including A Call to Service: My Vision for a Better America and This Moment on Earth.

United States


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U.S. Delegates


SAMANTHAPOWERSamantha Power, the U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations, is an example of someone who has served in a near-lifelong campaign for international rights. Her work in bringing awareness to the continually devastating effects of genocide is exceptional in its impact and unflinching spirit. Power’s deft combination of scholarly understanding and cultural empathy have made her a unique force in the world of international relations. She is a definitive representative for the United States in many forms over the last decade. The tremors of her work for those in need will be felt for years to come.

United States

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U.S. Delegates


REUBEN E.BRIGETY IIReuben E. Brigety II graduated with a PhD in International Relations from the University of Cambridge, England. In 2011, he was appointed Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of African Affairs. In this duty, he is specifically responsible for Southern African and Regional Security Affairs. Prior to this position, Reuben was the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State in the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration. Mr. Brigety, is invaluable in the advancement and development of global Human Rights efforts.

United States

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U.S. Delegates


PENNYPRITZKERPenny Pritzker became the 38th Secretary of Commerce in July 2013. She previously served on the President’s Council for Jobs and Competitiveness and the President’s Economic Recovery Advisory Board. Pritzker has 25 years of experience working in real estate, senior living, and hospitality including the development of Vi, senior housing communities and The Parking Spot, providing near-airport parking lots. Her civic work focuses mainly on public education and in 2012 she was given the Woodrow Wilson Award for Public Service.

United States


Women Impactors WorldwideFrom politicians to philanthropists to international business executives, these are some of the most accomplished women shaping the US and the world today. Their roles often mix within all three categories; they aren’t just politicians or business executives. They embody the notion that the world requires collaboration across all fronts, and in so doing, they represent the future.

Michelle Obama is a prime example of a woman involved in politics, business, and philanthropy. As the first African-American First Lady of the United States, she both provides political support for the President and leads the charge in philanthropic work with her “Let’s Move!” campaign to reverse the growing trend of childhood obesity in America. She is a prominent inspirational figure, a published author and lawyer, and sits on the Board of Directors to the Chicago Council on Global Affairs

Meg Whitman is the current chairman, President and CEO of Hewlett-Packard, the multi-billion dollar international technology company. Her track record in business extends beyond to such notable accomplishments as President and CEO of eBay where she oversaw and navigated its expansion to a billion dollar company. Her political achievements include the California Republican candidacy for governor in 2010, and her philanthropic endeavors culminated with the founding of her charitable foundation with her husband, focusing on the Environmental Defense Fund.

As President and CEO of Sam’s Club, a division of Wal-Mart Store, Inc., Rosalind Brewer embodies the American Dream, rising up through the ranks that started with her twenty-two year career at Kimberly-

Clark Corporation where she began as a scientist and continued on to become President of the Global Nonwovens Sector. From there she eventually made her way up the executive ladder at Wal-Mart where she became the first African American to lead a Wal-Mart division. Her experience, power, and impact have global implications, but despite her demanding job, she makes a concerted effort to inspire, mentor, and improve her communities.

Hillary Clinton, the first female Senator from New York, has paved her way in politics after being First Lady. She was nominated to be Secretary of State by President Obama, and after being confirmed in that role, has worked tirelessly in that position since January 2009. Her view on “smart power” is about combining all capabilities of a country not just with military and diplomacy, but also with technology, development aid, collaboration, and human rights advocacy. A strong figure and advocate for the empowerment of women across the globe, she leverages technology, especially social media to broadcast her message, and is an inspiration worldwide.

Whitney Williams, founder and President of williamsworks, gained innate experience through her experience as First Lady Hillary Clinton’s Trips Director. It was under this role that she saw firsthand the largest

challenges this generation faces and the amazing network trying to solve them. For over 10 years, she has run williamsworks to create and execute groundbreaking initiatives alongside humanitarians, corporations, and visionaries. She also serves as co-founder and Vice Chair of the Board for Eastern Congo Initiative, the first U.S.-based advocacy and grant making organization focused solely on working with and for the people of eastern Congo. Her experience has led her to expertly navigate and guide other through the political, philanthropic, and corporate fields.

Jamaican born Lorna Johnson is a democratic philanthropist and activist, certified nurse midwife and entrepreneur. Johnson is most noted for her expertise and advocacy through her political and healthcare initiatives. She is a pivotal founder, leader, and visionary for the Advanced Family Care Medical Group and Compassion for Teen Life as well as being an active member of the Honorary Consul of Jamaica in Los Angeles and the Presidential Healthcare Committee. Johnson’s wholehearted devotion to women’s healthcare and children has led her to grace the cover of Exceptional People Magazine along with personal meetings with President Obama and other leading members of his team to share her healthcare expertise.


Top: Michelle Obama (left), Hilary Clinton (right). Middle: Meg Whitman (left), Rosalind Brewer (right). Bottom: Whitney Williams (left), Lorna Johnson (right)

QUEEN


Take a moment and imagine learning anything you want. Now picture yourself doing so by playing a computer game, and not just any

game, one that adjusts its difficulty and settings as you learn so that you are kept interested, curious and challenged, but never to the point of frustration. You go at your own enjoyable pace, but you’re surprised at how much you’ve learned. Topics you typically find very difficult now seem remarkably easy to comprehend and master. This idea is the beauty behind Adaptive Practice, the culmination of research from psychology, neuroscience, gaming, and cognitive science.

The world is evolving from classroom-based, teacher-centric learning to more student-centric, online learning, and therefore technologies must evolve to maximize the potential of this shift. With the ability to custom tailor lessons to the pace of the student, Adaptive Practice promises to fulfill the vision of high-efficiency learning through a process we actually enjoy: games.

BrianRush, founded by one of the fathers of the video game industry Nolan Bushnell (whose accolades include

founding Atari, Chuck E. Cheese, and Newsweek’s “50 Men Who Changed America”), uses Adaptive Practice at the core of its technology. Based on the concept that nearly every lesson can be turned into mini-games, BrainRush creates a fun, cost effective, efficient solution to learning, from English and foreign language to biology, chemistry, math, and job skills.

In 2012, BrainRush successfully completed a test of its software for Spanish vocabulary with over 80,000 students and 2,200 teachers across the country. The results are quite promising: an increase in learning speed of 8–10 times compared to traditional learning.

BrainRush’s Formula is simple: Think, Act, Adapt, Flow, Master, Review. With their open-authoring system, BrainRush has opened its technology to the world as any user can create a game on a topic of choice, quickly and easily. With BrainRush, learning is scientifically proven to be fun.

You can learn more about BrainRush atwww.brainrush.com

Learn Faster:Adaptive Practicethrough BrainRush


The 3 Stages

ofBeing

Highly InfluentialSharí Alexander

Skilled influence is what makes the world go ‘round. Leaders of all types need to build their skill of tuning

an idea into a powerful message. Your ability to effectively connect with people and communicate persuasively changes organizations, communities, and even countries.

However, influence is a tricky trade. The higher up the ladder you climb, the more intrinsically influential you become. However, if you overtly flex that influential muscle too much, people can be put off and even build resentment. So what is the answer? How do you still be persuasive in a casual and conversational manner? Both psychological studies and master-influencers point to a revelation that there is a 3-step process to becoming highly (and covertly) influential.

Observe

Here’s the mistake that most people make: they have their influential request in mind, they sit down to have a conversation with someone, they end up doing the majority

of the talking, and way too early in the conversation they make their influential request. Observation is one of the foundational skill sets of becoming highly influential. When you meet with someone (even if you’ve known them for a while), take the time to observe their behavior. Pay attention to their nonverbal communication (body language) and their specific word choice. Your observations are going to determine how you approach the next influential steps.

What should you observe,specifically?

Do they have open or closed body language? If their body language is more open, then you can probably transition into your influential request sooner rather than later. However, if they are more closed, then be prepared to put in the time and elicit more open body language. More on that in the “Connect” section.

The next thing to keenly pick up on are what I call their keywords. Keywords are any phrases that signal you to their values

and how they perceive themselves. People leak keywords all the time in conversation. It’s shocking how often they are overlooked! Keywords really are the key to unlocking the other person’s perception of the world and themselves. We all have a unique hierarchy of values. Our values are developed based on our culture, gender, experiences, upbringing, and many other factors. Discerning their hierarchy will help you frame your influential request. For example, one person might highly value the concept of family, while another person might value the concept of independence much more. How you influence the family-oriented person and the independence-driven person will be two different conversations.

Connect

After you’ve taken the time to observe your target, it’s time to connect the dots. What can you discern from the evidence you’ve observed? If you’ve picked up on the fact that they are very detailed oriented (as opposed to a “big picture” kind of person),


then you need to adjust and be prepared to share the details behind your request or answer their many detailed questions. If you try to skip over the details, you will likely lose their interest.

But, before we jump into making your influential request, we must first talk about the most important part of the Connect portion: actually making a connection with the other person. Building rapport with the other person makes you more likable and we are more likely to comply with people that we like. There are a few ways you can make a connection with the other person.

First, nonverbal body language is very powerful. When two people are in rapport with one another, they subconsciously start to mirror each other’s nonverbal communication - body language, tone, pacing, volume, etc. You can reverse engineer this process. If you want to create rapport, mirror their nonverbal communication. This doesn’t mean that you need to match them gesture for gesture. Just pay attention to their silhouette and their speech patterns. Pick a few to implement and watch them open up.

Second, find something in common. This is an obvious tip, so let’s take it one step further. Studies have shown that when two people share something in common, their compliance to requests increases. However, when the more unique or rare the shared commonality is, the higher the compliance. So, pay attention and look for rare shared traits, experiences, relationships, or perspectives. If you can’t find the rare kind of commonality, don’t worry. Research

shows that even a small commonality that is unrelated to your influential request can still increase your influential changes.

Influence

Okay, you’ve made it. you’ve put in the time, you’ve observed the other person, and you’ve built a connection. Time to bring it on home! There are too many influential strategies and techniques to share in this brief article, but I’ll highlight a few of my personal favorites that are easy to implement.

One of the techniques that hold a lot of power is social pressure or social proof. When making your influential request, try to weave in how other people are already “on board” with the idea. Even better, if you can demonstrate how many people are already for following your advice, then do it. Part of our physiological and psychological wiring is built around the idea of avoiding social embarrassment or rejection. No one wants to be the odd man out. In that sense, we are pack animals. We will follow the group. Let’s say you are trying to get an influential person to a meeting. When you invite them, subtly mention how 3 other very important people have already said they would come. If your target was considering rejecting your request, they will more likely comply since others from “the herd” will be there.

The next technique is one of the simplest and most powerful, and yet it is highly under-utilized. It is just one word: because. Robert Cialdini, in one of his many famous

studies, demonstrated how using the word because can increase your compliance rate by 34%. Wow.

Most people make the mistake of just making their influential request without attaching any reasoning to it. ‘Will you review my presentation?’ isn’t as influential as ‘Will you review my presentation, because it’s in two days and I’m feeling a bit nervous?’ So, next time you craft your request, make sure attach the magic word to it, because it makes you much more influential. (See what I did there?)

Next time you are preparing for an important meeting or conversation, remember this simple and highly effective persuasive process: observe, connect, and influence. If you try to jump to the last step, you might land flat on your face. But if you take is one step at a time, your influential prowess will greatly increase and you’ll create stronger relationships along the way.

Sharí Alexander is a speaker and executive coach on influential communications - both in conversations and public speeches. Here Los Angeles based firm, Observe Connect Influence, helps leaders lead using influential techniques in a positive and ethical way through group training programs, personal coaching, and online courses. Sharí can be contacted on her site observeconnectinfluence.com or via email [email protected].

30 TO FIND OUT MORE, VISIT [email protected] | +1 (202) 870-1176

THE VISIONDecision Pointe Group will be a catalytic agent for business development and impact investment joining four key stakeholders: institutional investors, high-impact entrepreneurs, universities, and government agencies. Our annual event is a business roundtable conference that DPG will host to bring these four together to chart a course leading to measurable actions, decision-making, and investments in emerging growth markets in Africa. We prime ventures for further collaboration and investment and move them forward into implementation. While we prioritize African countries at the moment, our work with other developing regions is forthcoming.

THE MISSIONThe broad mission of Decision Pointe Group is to enhance the health, social, and economic status of underserved communities. We develop high-impact entrepreneurs in domestic regions and in emerging urban centers with the purpose of creating jobs, sustainability, and cultural capital; leading to positive generational impact. Our approach entails building entrepreneur incubators to enhance opportunities for community capacity building in target areas.

OUR FOCUSInvesting in Mobile TechnologyMobile technology has expanded in developing nations at a vast pace making these viable expansion markets.

Digital EducationImplementing education technology solutions enables educators and students to stay on the cutting-edge of instruction and learning, and staying connected across domestic and global regions.

Environment and HealthDeveloping innovative sustainable living communities goes beyond addressing the basic need for food, shelter, and water. Enhancing healthcare access, nutrition, treatment, and systems increases opportunities for healthy and wealthy living.

Social Enterprise EcosystemAssembling social enterprises to expand investment leads to more innovation and economic development.

Alternative EnergyInvesting in energy solutions enhances the capability for developing communities to build sustainable life systems that will upgrade lifestyles.

Business IntelligenceProviding meaningful data through field research on the progress of social enterprises creates trust in the success of projects and opens up clearer investment opportunities.

Decision Pointe Group


In 2005, Doug Jefferies felt compelled to help those struck by disaster. He did so by setting up a 501(c) 3 charitable organization to organize volunteer trips

to those afflicted by the tsunami in Sri Lanka. This led to other missions including the US Gulf Coast for Hurricane Katrina. His goal was simple: do anything and everything that needs to be done from helping EMS workers find people to conducting surveys on the overall needs of the area to creating street signs.

His efforts then focused on Haiti in 2010 with more than 29 trips and over 160 volunteers over the next few years. After spending so much time there, Doug saw the mission become more than just providing momentary relief from disaster. It evolved into bringing tangible and timely improvements to the economic and social conditions in Haiti, a model Mission:Results seeks to apply to other areas of the developing world.

Their lofty goal starts with Haiti and centers around direct impact on both micro and macro level projects. To do so, Mission:Results creates their initiatives only after extensive understanding of the country, community, and relationships. For Haiti, they believe that means creating basic infrastructure, increasing exportation of manufacturing, and increasing tourism, agriculture production, and internet-based employment.

Mission:Results’ track record of immediate relief missions provides a great opportunity for them to launch into respectful, sustainable change for Haiti and from there, the rest of the world.

You can learn more about Doug Jefferies and Mission:Results at www.missionresults.org

Mission:Results Provides Model to Change


R EMEMBER INGM A DIBA


The late Nelson Mandela, more intimately known as Madiba, was released from prison after three decades in 1990. In his liberation

Mandela wanted nothing more than to use his liberation towards reconciliation. He nobally sought to fight a long and painful chapter in South African history.

At 72, Nelson Mandela began to enact his vision by focusing every bit of his energy towards creating a society where his story would not be repeated. Equipped with an eloquence that is only available to those who have endured great pain in the pursuit of equality, he spoke with kindness and he spoke from the heart.

Listening to one of his famous speeches is as much of an awe inspiring experience today as it was back then, for Mandela was advocating for socio-political and moral change. When pushing South Africa away from apartheid, he asked his citizens to forget the past and move toward a new future, for this was the only viable way to create a new chapter in the story and lives of the South African people.

The Origin of a Legend

Rolihlahla Mandela was born in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province on July 18, 1918. He was renamed Nelson by one of his teachers and later became known by many of his followers as Madiba, his Xhosa clan name.

From an early age he was affected by the social and economical disparities between whites and black of

South Africa. He became involved in politics when he joined the African National Congress, where he rose to be a key figure and target of the then ruling National Party. After almost 20 years of civil disobedience and political activism, in 1964 he was sentenced to life in prison for sabotage and conspiracy to overthrow the government.

During his 27-year imprisonment he continued his plight against inequality and began writing his now famous memoir Long Walk to Freedom. In February 1990 after mounting international pressure, he was released and led the ANC to become South Africa’s first black President.

Nelson Mandela’s achievements stretch far beyond the abolition of apartheid. In the last 20 years of his life he advocated human rights, campaigned against HIV/AIDS and effectively set the bar for other African leaders.

When speaking to South African’s today, it is difficult to find one that doesn’t regard Nelson Mandela as a personal hero. On the 5th of December this past year, people from around the world united to mourn the death and celebrate the achievements of this 21st century icon. It is because of his unwavering spirit, his almost superhuman nature, and what he stood for and represents for South Africa and the world that even though he passed on, we celebrate the life of Nelson Mandela.

TO FIND OUT MORE, VISIT WWW.PAFF.ORG

Pictured: PAFF Founders Danny Glover,

Ja’net DuBois (Good Times) and Ayuko Babu

Courtesy of Sundance Institute

OUR MISSIONIt is PAFF’s goal to present and showcase the broad spectrum of Black creative works, particularly those that reinforce positive images and help destroy negative stereotypes. We believe film and art can lead to better understanding and foster communication between peoples of diverse cultures, races, and lifestyles, while at the same time serve as a vehicle to initiate dialogue on the important issues of our times.

ABOUT PAFFEstablished in 1992, The Pan African Film Festival (PAFF) is a non-profit 501(c)(b) corporation dedicated to the promotion of cultural understanding among peoples of African descent. PAFF is dedicated to racial tolerance through the exhibition of film, art and creative expression.Since 1992, every year PAFF-LA showcases over one hundred fifty

(150) quality new films and over one hundred (100) fine artists and unique craft persons from the United States, Africa, the Caribbean, Latin America, South America, Europe, the South Pacific and Canada, all showcasing the diversity and complexity of people of African descent. For the past 16 years PAFF-ATL has put on a summer festival formerly presented by the National Black Arts Festival, exhibiting the best films from PAFF-LA supplemented by Atlanta submissions catering to the Atlanta audience. Both festivals feature special red carpet screenings and receptions as well as a variety of other special events including panels & workshops headed by industry professionals on various topics surrounding acting, directing and other film industry related topics.PAFF has premiered a host of top black films including Think Like a Man, Free Angela and All Political

Prisoners, Love & Basketball, Woman Thou Art Loosed: On the 7th Day, Blackbird and many more. Each Year PAFF-LA presents awards of recognition to key industry players and rising stars who have soared in the film industry. Previous recipients include Forest Whitaker, Loretta Devine, Charles Dutton, Alfre Woodard, Idris Elba, Billy Dee Williams, Sidney Poitier, Nicole Beharie, Omari Hardwick, Phylicia Rashad, David Oyelowo and a host of other extraordinary industry professionals both in front of and behind the camera lens.PAFF collaborates with other festivals from around the world, giving us an audience that is truly international. Not only are we the largest and most prestigious black film festival in America but PAFF-LA is the largest Black History Month event in the US during the month of February. PAFF is the quintessential Black festival.

AFRICAN HEADS OF STATE

AFRICANHEADS OF STATE

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The Heads of State


ABDELAZIZ BOUTEFLIKAAbdelaziz Bouteflika, Algeria’s fifth President, has a long and distinguished political career serving as Algeria’s Foreign Minister as well as the President of the 29th session of the UN General Assembly. First elected President in 1999, President Bouteflika was instrumental in ending the 2002 Algerian Civil War. During his presidency he has focused on rebuilding his country and strengthening Algeria’s international reputation.

Algeria

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The Heads of State


JOSÉ EDUARDODOS SANTOSAs an anti-apartheid advocate, Angola’s President, José Eduardo dos Santos has served as a chief leader in his country’s liberal direction. Dos Santos is noted for his role as commander in chief of Angolan Armed Forces (FAA) and President of the People’s Movement for the Liberation of Angola. One of Dos Santos’ most unique societal contributions was his aid in facilitating the initiation of the African Countries Diamond Association.

Angola

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The Heads of State


YAYIBONIYayi Boni, currently serving his second term as President, first took office in 2006. Mr. Boni, educated as an economist and banker, earned his Doctorate of Economics from the Paris Dauphine University. In addition to his duties as President, he also served as Chairman of the African Union in 2012. He has consistently fought for reforms to alleviate poverty and improve economic development.

Benin

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The Heads of State


IANKHAMAIan Khama, President of Botswana, is the first-born of Botswana’s founding President, the late Sir Seretse Khama. He has prevailed as a steadfast President with exultant military experience and numerous honors including the Presidential Order of Honour, the Founder Officer Medal, the Duty Code Order, and the Distinguished Service Medal.

Botswana

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The Heads of State


BLAISECOMPAORÉBlaise Compaoré became leader of Burkina Faso in 1987. His unremitting reelections have led him to his fourth term as President. President Compaoré is a respected regional leader and mediator. He served as the chairman of the Organization of African Unity, the Economic Community of West African States, and the West African Economic and Monetary Union. Hallmarks of President Compaoré’s leadership include political stability and economic progress.

Burkina Faso

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The Heads of State


PIERRENKURUNZIZABefore his presidential inauguration, Pierre Nkurunziza was the chairman of the National Council for the Defense of Democracy-Forces for the Defense of Democracy (CNDD-FDD). President Nkurunziza has served as a visionary for Africa’s prospective improvement having earned honors including the “Model Leader for a New Africa Award.” He has served as Burundi’s President since 2005.

Burundi

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The Heads of State


PAULBIYAServing as Prime Minister of Cameroon from 1975 to 1982, Paul Biya became President in 1982. He studied at the Sorbonne in Paris, earning a degree in Public Law. During his three decade-long tenure, President Biya brought political and social stability to Cameroon, allowing development of agriculture, roads, railways, timber and petroleum industries.

Cameroon

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The Heads of State


JORGE CARLOS FONSECAAs the fourth President of Cape Verde, Jorge Carlos Fonseca has bolstered his country’s pride through a multitude of publications including Direito e Justiça, Direito e Cidadania, Revista Portuguesa de Ciência Criminal, and Revista de Economia e Direito. Fonesca provides his country with unique wisdom from his educational background in law and foreign ministry. He has led Cape Verde as President since 2011.

Cape Verde

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The Heads of State


IDRISSDÉBYChad, led by its President, is emerging from half a century of regionalized conflict and internal turmoil, and it has the potential to lay foundations for better governance and development. A 2010 peace agreement with Sudan continues to hold, and Chad currently enjoys relative stability. It is one of the most food-insecure countries in the world and the government is taking steps to improve infrastructure and foster stability.

Chad

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The Heads of State


IKILILOUDHOININEPrior to his 2011 presidential inauguration, Ikililou Dhoinine gained political experience as his country’s Vice President. Additionally, President Dhoinine served as the Vice President in the Ministry of Finance, using the role to promote women’s entrepreneurship. At his presidential Inauguration, Dhoinine determinedly pledged to “stop nothing in the fight against corruption.”

Comoros

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The Heads of State


DENIS SASSOU NGUESSODenis Sassou Nguesso is one of Africa’s longest serving leaders, having collectively held office for over three decades during his terms as the Republic of Congo’s Commander-in-Chief. In addition to his Presidency, Nguesso became Chairman of the 54-nation African Union, which was established in 2002. One of Nguesso’s most notable characteristics is that he is open to foreign investment for the good of his country.

Republic of Congo

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The Heads of State


JOSEPHKABILAChosen as one of Forbes’ Top 10 Youngest Powerful Men in Africa, Joseph Kabila assumed presidential leadership in 2006 at age 29, in his country’s first Democratic elections in over 40 years. Admirably, President Kabila played a lead role in signing Sun City agreement in 2002, which terminated the Second Congo War. President Kabila also maintains firm opposition against Congolese military sex crimes.

Democratic Republic of Congo

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The Heads of State


ALASSANE OUATTARAAlassane Ouattara’s reputation proceeds him as a hard-worker, a man keen on transparency and fair in governance. The President of Cote D’Ivoire graduated with a PhD at the University of Pennsylvania in 1972. Ouattara established his career by serving as an economist for the International Monetary in Washington. D.C., and the BCEAO’s Chargé de Mission in Paris. He was elected to office in 2011.

Cote D’Ivoire

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The Heads of State


ISMAÏL OMAR GUELLEHIsmaïl Omar Guelleh is the first elected President to Djibouti. Inducted into office in 1999, Guelleh currently plays an important role in preventing conflict, promoting regional stability, and countering extremism. This past May, Guelleh met with President Obama with hopes to promote peace and create a strategic partnership between the United States and Djibouti. Guelleh is in his third term as Commander-in-Chief.

Djibouti

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The Heads of State


ABDEL FATTAH EL-SISIAbdel Fattah el-Sis, also known as the Quiet General, due to his discrete persona, is the sixth President of Egypt. His professional accolades include serving as Commander-in-Chief to the Egyptian Armed Forces, as well as Minister of Defense. Subsequently, he was appointed as the First Deputy Prime Minister, while remaining Minister of Defense. Currently, el-Sisi serving his first term as President to Egypt after being elected to office June 8, 2014.

Egypt

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The Heads of State


TEODORO OBIANG NGUEMA MBASOGO

Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo has held the Presidency of Equatorial Guinea since 1979. Before ascending to the Presidency, Obiang held various offices, including governorship of Bioko, leader of the National Guard, and Chairman of the African Union. In addition to his political career, Mbasogo served in the military during Equatorial Guinea’s colonial period and attended the Military Academy in Zaragoza, Spain.

Equatorial Guinea

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The Heads of State


MULATU TESHOMEMulatu Teshome has served as Ethiopia’s Commander-in-Chief since October 2, 2013. Prior to his presidency, Mulatu was Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Minister of Agriculture and Speaker of the House of Federation. Teshome worked a notable amount of time overseas, serving as Ethiopia’s Ambassador to China, Japan, and most currently Turkey.

Ethiopia

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The Heads of State


ALI BONGOONDIMBAAli Bongo Ondimba became President of Gabon in 2009. He was inducted into office and succeeded his father, Omar Bongo, who was President of Gabon from 1967 to 2009. President Ondimba studied law, which later turned into a career in politics. Ondimba’s impressive roster of political accomplishments include: Minister of Foreign Affairs, Deputy in the National Assembly of Bongoville, and Minister of Defense.

Gabon

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The Heads of State


YAHYAJAMMEHYahya Jammeh holds the highest executive official position in The Gambia. Jammeh was first elected President in 1996 and has been sequentially elected in the 2001, 2006, and 2011 elections. One of his most notable acts as President was founding The Jammeh Foundation for Peace (JFP) to help eliminate poverty, advance agricultural production, provide healthcare and sponsor educational opportunities for the youth.

The Gambia

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The Heads of State


ALPHACONDÉPresident since 2010, Alpha Condé is the first democratically elected Commander-in-Chief to Guinea. Condé’s impressive political career began in 1950, when he served as head of the Federation of Black Students campaigning for independence against France, which Guinea later established independence from in 1958. Condé is described as charismatic and intelligent by his peers.

Guinea

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The Heads of State


JOHN DRAMANI MAHAMAJohn Dramani Mahama took office as President on July 24, 2012 after serving as Vice President of Ghana from 2009 to 2012. Before ascending to Presidency, Mahama served as a Member of Parliament and Minister of Communications. His notable accolades include the honorary African Award for Excellence in Food Security and Poverty Reduction, which Mahama received in 2013 from the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA). President Mahama is also a Bill Gates Fellow.

Ghana

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The Heads of State


JOSÉ MÁRIO VAZJosé Mário Vaz, recently elected as President of Guinea-Bissau on June 23, 2014, is in is primary presidential term. Mário Vaz’s career began as an economist at the Office of Economic Studies of the Banco de Portugal. His successful political career commenced when he became Mayor to the city of Bissau in 2004, which he held prior to being appointed as Financial Minister. During his presidency, Mário Vaz hopes to focus on reducing poverty and increasing his country’s investment in agriculture.

Guinea-Bissau

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The Heads of State


UHURUKENYATTAUhuru Kenyatta was recently appointed as President to Kenya on April 9, 2013. President Kenyatta succeeds his father, Jomo Kenyatta, who was founder and first President of Kenya from 1964 to 1978. Before ascending to Presidency, Kenyattta served as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister to Kenya’s Local Government. His name “Uhuru” is Swahili for “freedom”, and was given to him prior to Kenya’s independence. President Kenyatta graduated from Amherst College with a degree in Political Science.

Kenya

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The Heads of State


LETSIEIIIHis Majesty, Letsie III is the reigning King of Lesotho. The first son of the former King, he took office in 1990. He studied at the University of Bristol, Cambridge and London focusing on Agricultural Economics. He is the patron of the Prince Mohato Award, which seeks to encourage and stimulate the enthusiasm, responsibility, enterprise, and maturity of young people. He is married to Queen Karabo Motšoeneng, with whom he has two daughters and a son.

Lesotho

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The Heads of State


ELLEN JOHNSON SIRLEAFThe first elected female head of state in Africa, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf won the 2005 election, assuming office in 2006. One of her first acts was the establishment of the Truth and Reconciliation commission to “promote national peace, security, unity and reconciliation”. In 2010, the Economist declared her “arguably the best President the country has ever had”. President Sirleaf was awarded the Nobel Peace prize in 2011 for her continuing struggle to insure women’s rights and safety.

Liberia

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The Heads of State


NOURIABUSAHMAINNouri Abusahmain, is President of the General National Congress, elected in June of 2013. He studied law and international relations in the United Kingdom, and is Libya’s first Berber leader. As President, he is overseeing a transition to a new government and is tasked with directing the Congress in preparing a new constitution. He considers himself as an average citizen trying to bring law and justice to the people.

Libya

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The Heads of State


HERYRAJAONARIMAMPIANINA

President Hery Rajaonarimampianina is the newest President of Madagascar. He studied Accounting and Finance in Canada, returning to Madagascar in 1991. He served in the previous administration as Minister of Finance, and was elected President in January of 2014. He vowed to work to bring prosperity to the Indian Ocean island nation, and promised to serve as President for all Madagascans.

Madagascar

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The Heads of State


PETER MUTHARIKAMalawi’s current President Peter Mutharika recently assumed his presidency in May 2014. Prior to his inauguration, Mutharika served as Minister of Foreign Affairs, and firmly rooted himself in the DPP party. President Mutharika’s impressive background international justice is extraordinarily beneficial to his country.

Malawi

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The Heads of State


IBRAHIM BOUBACAR KEÏTAPresident Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta has served as Mali’s President since 2013 after serving as the country’s Prime Minister and President of the National Assembly. His impressive international educational background in Paris at Lycée Janson-de-Sailly led the current President to educate at University of Paris I specializing in third World Politics. Following this, he continued to found the Alliance for Democracy in Mali in (ADEMA-PASJ). As President, he has dedicated himself to ensuring the proven capacities of chosen ministers.

Mali

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The Heads of State


MOHAMED OULD ABDEL AZIZFollowing a Coup against Sidi Ould Cheikh Abdallahi in 2005, President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz became President of the High Counsel of the State before assuming the title of Mauritania’s President in 2009. As a dedicated ally to the western powers against Al-Qaeda, the President has vowed to improve and enhance National Unity. The diminishment of social inequality and poverty are two of his core objectives.

Mauritania

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The Heads of State


KAILASH PURRYAGPresident Kailash Purryag took office as the fifth ever presdent of Maurituis in 2012. Also an Attorney at Law, the President is a previous member of Parliament, Minister and Speaker of the National Assembly and former secretary of the Mauritian Labor Party. The President has received numerous of the highest official honors in Maurituis including the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award.

Maurituis

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The Heads of State


MOHAMMEDVIKing Mohammed VI has ruled Morocco since 1999, but assumed his leadership role at birth as the country’s appointed Heir Apparent and Crown Prince. He is firmly dedicated to reducing poverty and corruption while new jobs and improving human rights. Additionally, the King boldly initiated a new family code for Morocco that furnished women with added power. The King received his PhD in law from the University of Nice Sophia Antipolis in France.

Morocco

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The Heads of State


ARMANDOGUEBUZAMozambique’s President, Armando Guebuza, first took office in 2005. Preceding his presidential position, Armando Guebuza was a member of FRELIMO (Frente de Libertação de Moçambique, Mozambique Liberation Front), and helped battle for his county’s liberation from Potyucal. He is Mozambique’s first ever-reigning President to assume leadership with a non-Marxist regime.

Mozambique

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The Heads of State


HIFIKEPUNYE POHAMBANamibia’s current reigning President, Hifikepunye Pohamba, assumed his nation’s presidential seat in 2005. Impressively, President Pohamba also holds the title as the President of SWAPO, and maintains a steadfast dedication to the anti-corruption movement. The President also leads the chancellorship of the University of Namibia, and holds an Ongulumbashe Medal for Bravery and Long Service.

Namibia

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The Heads of State


MAHAMADOU ISSOUFOUFollowing his 2011 presidential induction, Niger’s current President, Mahamadou Issoufou, has exhibited an impressive dedication to countering any threats from Al-Qaeda. President Issoufou is also a trained engineer, and formerly served as his Nation’s “Director of the Mines”. He has victoriously led and served the PNDS party since the early 1990’s.

Niger

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The Heads of State


GOODLUCKJONATHANNigeria’s fourteenth head of state, President Goodluck Jonathan, first took office in2010. Before assuming his Presidency, President Jonathan served as the Governer of Bayelsa State, the Vice President of Nigeria, and a member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). He has promoted youth creativity, entrepreneurship and innovation through his initiative Youth Enterprise with Innovation in Nigeria (YOUWIN). Additionally, the President’s ‘Roadmap for Power Sector Reform‘ set out the goal to attain secure electricity for Nigeria.

Nigeria

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The Heads of State


PAULKAGAMEAfter assuming the role of Rwanda’s President in 2000, Paul Kagame has continued to spearhead his focus on improving national economy and unity. The President launched a program to transform his country into a middle-income nation by 2020, and, as of 2013, Rwanda has exhibited astonishing growth. President Kagame is a spearhead of the Rwandan Patriotic Front and helped end the 1994 Rwandan Genocide.

Rwanda

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The Heads of State


MANUEL PINTO DA COSTAManuel Pinto da Costa, Sao Tome’s first President, returned to office in 2011. Educated in Germany as an economist, he led the country’s transition from Portuguese colony to independence in 1975 and helped establish one of Africa’s first multi-party democracies. He has helped to improve the population’s literacy, and his main concern continues to be the people and their living conditions. He has worked throughout his career to better both.

Sao Tome and Principe

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The Heads of State


MACKYSALLMacky Sall was elected to the office as the President of Senegal in 2012. Sall’s past political career positions include service as the Prime Minister of Senegal, the President of the National Assembly of Senegal, and the two-term Mayor of Fatick. Prior to politics, Sal was a geographical engineer by profession. Sall is married to Marieme Faye Sall, who is Senegal’s first black First Lady. President Sall is the fourth President of Senegal.

Senegal

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The Heads of State


JAMESMICHELJames Michel took office as President of Seychelles in 2004. Prior to taking the position as Commander-in-Chief to the Seychelles, Michel held the office of Vice President. As a former professor, the President is keen on the importance of education. Most notably, President Michel received the Sustainable Development Leadership Award 2013 at the Delhi Sustainable Development Summit for his exceptional work with Seychelles’ environmental, economic and social reform programmes.

Seychellas

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The Heads of State


ERNEST BAI KOROMAErnest Bai Koroma is the fourth President of Sierra Leone, holding the position since 2007. In his current and second presidential term, Koroma plans to create jobs for the youth, develop infrastructure across Sierra Leone, fight corruption, and continue to attract foreign investment. President Koroma is a graduate from the Fourah Bay College, the oldest university in West Africa.

Sierra Leone

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The Heads of State


HASSAN SHEIKH MOHAMOUDNamed one of TIME Magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world, President Mohamoud, has done much to advance Somalia. His efforts can be observed through his country’s advances in national reconciliation, anti-corruption measures, and socio-economic and security sector reform. A former professor and Dean, Mohamoud has constructed primary and secondary schools, advanced existing universities and opened research hospitals. Mohamoud also implemented a new system of scholarships in many institutions to advance the education of his citizens.

Somalia

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The Heads of State


JACOBZUMAAs President of South Africa, Jacob Zuma is vital in the promotion of peace and tourism to South Africa. Zuma’s political accolades also include his service as the President of the African National Congress (ANC), and the Deputy President of South Africa. Forced into exile to fight apharteid, Zuma is impressively self-educated. President Zuma assumed his leadership position for South Africa in 2009.

South Africa

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The Heads of State


SALVA KIIRMAYARDITPresident Salva Kiir Mayardit assumed his position in office in 2011 just after South Sudan’s official independence,. Prior to his role as President, Mayardit was President of the Government of Southern Sudan and the nation’s First Vice President. Kiir plans to change South Sudan by building transportation infrastructure, and improving healthcare and education. Additionally, he pledges to modernize agricultural production and fight the tribulations of gender inequality.

South Sudan

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The Heads of State


MSWATIIIIHis majesty Mswati III is the current King of Swaziliand, and has ruled the country since his coronation in 1986. At the mere age eighteen, Mswati III became the youngest head of state in the world. He was born in Manzini, four months before Swaziland won independence from the United Kingdom.

Swaziland

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The Heads of State


JAKAYAKIKWETEJakaya Kikwete is the Fourth President of the United Republic of Tanzania. Sworn in on December 21, 2005, Kikwete prior political roles include: Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chairman of the African Union, and Chairman of the Southern African Development Community Troika on Peace, Defense and Security. His career began with a degree in economics from the University of Dar es Salaam.

Tanzania

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The Heads of State


FAUREGNASSINGBÉFaure Gnassingbé, former son of former President Gnassingbé Eyadéma, has held the office of Presidency since 2005. Prior to becoming President, he served as Minister of Equipment, Mines, Posts and Telecommunications. Gnassingbé graduated from George Washington University with a Master of Business Administration Degree, and is currently in his second term as Commander-in-Chief to Togo.

Togo

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The Heads of State


MONCEFMARZOUKIMoncef Marzouki is the interim President of Tunisia. Elected in 2011, Marzouki’s philanthropic efforts include founding the African Network for Prevention of Child Abuse and the Center for Community Medicine in Sousse. Prior to his political career, President Marzouki studied medicine at the University of Strasbourg, traveled to India to study under Mahatma Gandhi, and ventured South Africa to educated himself on its transition from apartheid.

Tunisia

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The Heads of State


YOWERIMUSEVENIYoweri Museveni is a Ugandan politician who was first elected President in 1986. The President’s surname, Museveni, means “Son of a man of the Seventh”. The name was given to him honoring the Seventh Battalion of the King’s African Rifles, a British colonial army during World War II, in which many Ugandans served. President Museveni is currently serving his fourth term as President to Uganda.

Uganda

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The Heads of State


MICHAELSATAMichael Sata became President to Zambia on September 23, 2011. Ascending to Presidency, Sata was Governor of Lusaka in 1985 and a Member of Parliament for Kabwata. As a politician he has patched roadways, built bridges, and reformed Zambia’s health system. President Sata studied at Atlantic International University in Hawaii, graduating with a Bachelor in Political Science in 2011.

Zambia


Catherine Samba-Panza

The current interim President to the Central African Republic, former lawyer turned politician earned the job of repairing her current homeland. After years of revenge killings between Christians and Muslims, Samba-Panza boldly called for an end to violence and an acceptance of all people without exclusion. She now must face the challenge to rebuild a nation and preside over a country without a strong law, court system, or police force.

The Favored Four:African Women Changing the WorldContemporary strong African women are becoming role models, and pillars who mold the lives of young women throughout the world. The following women in African societies are not only improving the reputation and lives of those in their country, but redefining the roles of black women everywhere.

Sylvia Bongo Ondima

Gabon’s First Lady is a women’s activist first brought into the spotlight in 2009, after her husband’s inauguration. Mrs. Ondima’s education and foundation began in corporate management leading into her creation of her “For the Family” foundation, which raises awareness and support for the disadvantaged. Currently, she is the Global Partnership Foreign Ambassador and works towards a higher women’s healthcare regimen. Her International Widow’s Day garners support for single mothers throughout the world.


Claudia Sassou Nguesso

Advisor to the Head of State in the Congo, follows in the footsteps of Sylvia Bongo Ondima. A single mother of two, Claudia advocates on behalf of widows. Claudia’s Law is an international demand for the inheritance and land ownership for widows. She trusts that in taking care of these women, poverty will decrease and child labor will reach a minimum. She desires to boost the status of widowed women and remove the stigma their title currently suggests. In addition, Claudia is the head of the public relations sector associated with the Congolese government.

All of these women have faced devastating oppression in their lives and overcome these hardships to inspire the world. Whether it be a country needing repair, or a sector of women who need support, these women have put their lives into making their Africa and the world a better place. Dedication and resilience are the common qualities in these steadfast heroines. These are the common qualities amongst great leaders, and attributes worthy of admiration for all people in society.

Winnie Mandela

One of the most recognizable female role models from the African continent is Winnie Mandela. Former spouse to the late President Nelson Mandela, Winnie created her own reputation as a leader. In her youth, Winnie gained her degree in social work at a time when black men and women faced education restrictions due to apartheid. She actively fought for equal rights and was the spokesperson for her husband while Mandela resided in prison. Winnie’s passion for change was so resilient that she was often tortured, followed, and confined for her activism. She headed the African National Congress Women’s League for many years and received the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights award in 1985 for her achievements.


ContributorsLanre Idewu, B.S., C.P.T., is a former medical student, who became a celebrity fitness expert and on-air personality and has been dubbed the “Dr. Phil of Fitness.” With over 20 years of Exercise, Nutrition and Personal Development, Lanré has appeared on television programs such as “Oprah”, NBC’s “Biggest Loser”, and “20/20”; and in publications, such as People Magazine. Mr. Idewu’s accomplishments go beyond nutrition as he has extensive experience as a producer in film and television, is vice chair of the advisory board for the Geffen Playhouse, and led multiple technology and media projects in Nigeria, Congo and Rwanda, and is an active participant in Ben Affleck’s Eastern Congo Initiative.

Clifton Smith, III, CPA, worked at Deloitte & Touche focusing in the Financial Services Industry where his clients included hedge funds, mutual funds, and private equity firms. He has served as a trusted advisor for multiple startups and specializes in financial projection and implementation of new ideas. He held the position as General Manager – Digital for the Beverly Hills Courier where he focused on improving pricing, marketing, and technological infrastructure, as well as led the creation and development of an international real estate platform and a hyper-local

digital brand that leveraged social media. His main focus is on creating an economically viable solution for news platforms that deliver high quality content.

Andy Dunn is a Los Angeles based designer, creative director, & layout editor. With multiple years of experience in the high demand, deadline driven entertainment advertising industry, newspaper industry, and mobile interfaces development, he has designed for all mediums including brand identity, theatrical campaigns, websites, mobile applications, magazines, books, & social media.

Kate Geller, a Los Angeles-native, graduated from New York University’s Gallatin School of Individualized Study, where she received her B.A. for her education in Creative Writing and Comedy with a minor in German Language. After studying abroad in Berlin and Paris, Kate returned to New York City and assumed a role in the Video Department at AOL’s video platform, AOL On. Following this, she took on the role of Editorial Content Strategist for the NYC-based online video software platform NewsLook.com. Kate relocated to her hometown in 2014 where she serves various publications as an editor, writer and content manager.


Helen Sharp, a native Texan, graduated with a degree in Art History and Anthropology from the University of Arizona. After graduation she relocated to Buenos Aires, Argentina where she volunteered and studied the Spanish language. Her love for travel and the study of cultural anthropology sent her most recently to Taipei, Taiwan, where she worked as an editor and journalist for various publications. Having spent the majority of her adult life overseas, Helen is well versed in International and social affairs. She is currently settled in Los Angeles working to build a lifestyle and arts e-magazine.

Ed Colman’s long career spans many incarnations. Ed is currently running a successful blog with an international following, working on a photographic essay, developing a new television series, writing two books, and mentoring at a local Venice, California photography and media arts program for low-income youth.

Steven Olusegun Ojo is an experienced software developer who specializes in all things mobile. He has contributed to startups and companies throughout the LA and Seattle area for over the past 7 years. His

passion for technology and computer science stemmed from his younger years, and his goal is to improve accessibility and education of technology to young Africans to give them the opportunity to be inspired as well. His initial efforts are focused in Nigeria where his grandparents and other relatives reside.

‘Jabu is a South African artist who has been exhibited worldwide. Brought up in the Apartheid era, he uses his artwork to express his experiences of what is often an unfriendly world, but in a positive way. The rich and vibrant colors capture diverse appeal from abstract work to artwork inspired by elements and tapestry from his African background. The choice of timeless materials from mixed media to oil, to maple wood and polished aluminum add to the value of his creations.



The Black experience is an integral part of American culture; and the universal appeal of Black stories is becoming more apparent as African Americans make substantial inroads into the motion picture industry. As we look to the future, it is our goal to not only support Black filmmakers, but to promote their work for everyone’s enjoyment! The ABFF is committed to broadening the mainstream embrace of Black culture, to have as great an impact through cinema as we have had through music, fashion and sports.

To find out more, please visit abff.com

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African Leaders Magazine - Faces of the Future