IGD begins nomination process to support next generation of Africa business leaders at the 10th Frontier 100 Forum
The Initiative for Global Development's (IGD) Tenth Frontier 100 Forum continued today, bringing together CEOs and senior executives from sector-leading corporations around the world to discuss business investment that drives poverty reduction in Africa.
The Forum also marks the opening of the nomination period for IGD's Jennifer Potter Emerging Leaders Fellowship, named after IGD's first president and CEO.
The fellowship supports the rise of the next generation of African business leaders, giving selected Fellows access to an influential network of senior executives from sector-leading companies with the interest and capacity to make strategic investments in high-need, high-potential areas of Africa.
Each year, IGD selects one promising young business leader under the age of 50 who demonstrates a commitment to lifting lives through business growth and investment.
The recipient must be African, with a company operating on the continent in the field of agriculture, financial services, information and communications technology, or infrastructure.
"By providing the Jennifer Potter Emerging Leader Fellows with invaluable knowledge and business connections to grow their business in Africa, we hope to spark ever-greater success for the next generation of African business leaders,"said Lisa Nelson, IGD's interim President & CEO. "These young leaders represent the continent's greatest hope and potential for a bright future."
Last year, Susan Mashibe, the first female FAA-certified commercial pilot and aircraft maintenance engineer in Tanzania and CEO of VIA Aviation, was selected as IGD's inaugural fellow.
Her demonstrated commitment to economic growth and social investment as the most effective means of reducing poverty and unleashing human potential made her a great addition to IGD's network.
Through the fellowship, Susan has gained global recognition as a panelist at the George W. Bush Institute's African First Ladies Summit and an article in the "The Wall Street Journal."Susan has also expanded her network, gaining valuable business connections and potential mentors through IGD's Frontier 100 Forums and during two trips to the U.S. organized by IGD.
"I have gained opportunities and insights to transform my business, including a global platform to share my experience. IGD's Jennifer Potter Emerging Leaders Fellowship has been a valuable experience that I would recommend to any upcoming African entrepreneur."
Emerging Leaders Fellows gain exclusive access to IGD's network of sector-leading senior executives and have the opportunity to attend IGD's invitation-only Frontier 100 Forums, as well as other select events throughout the year.
Emerging Leaders Fellows will gain valuable insights from IGD member CEOs about how to operate a successful business in Africa and drive meaningful social impact in their communities.
For more information on the Fellowship, visit: http://www.igdleaders.org/tools-initiatives/emerging-leaders/
