Forty-six young South Africans are set to travel to the United States to participate in the 2018 Mandela Washington Fellowship programme for six weeks from June 18 to August 2.
The fellowship aims to enhance leadership skills, bolster entrepreneurship, and connect young leaders from across Africa with the American people, and with each another.
The 46 South Africans will join 700 other young people from sub-Saharan Africa for leadership training, networking and academic coursework, focused on civic leadership, public management, or business and entrepreneurship which will be hosted by 28 US Universities.
One hundred young people will stay for an additional six-week “Professional Development Experience” at a relevant company or organization.
Speaking at a special reception held for the youngstars in Pretoria, Chargé d’Affaires Jessye Lapenn said: “The program reflects Madiba’s optimism, idealism and belief in what he called the ‘endless heroism of youth.’ The program remains committed to those goals today. As we celebrate the Mandela Centenary, I hope you take this opportunity to ‘Be the Legacy."
Mandela Washington Fellows, aged 25-35, reflect the diversity of the African continent, with participants coming from a variety of backgrounds, professions, and regions.
Participants were selected for their record of promoting innovation and positive change within their organisations, communities and countries. –SAnews.gov.za
