Princeton in Africa News | May 2025

Gbenga Oyebode and Meg Whitman Shine at Princeton in Africa’s 25th Anniversary Gala, Emphasizing Africa’s Global Significance

Left to Right: Gbenga Oyebode, Jim Robinson, Board President, Meg Whitman, Damilola Akinyele Wolfgarten, Executive Director

At Princeton in Africa’s 25th Anniversary Gala, former U.S. Ambassador to Kenya, Meg Whitman, and co-founder of the prestigious African law firm, Aluko & Oyebode, Gbenga Oyebode, each delivered a compelling keynote address that underscored Africa's pivotal role in the current global socio-political landscape. The event celebrated a quarter-century of Princeton in Africa's commitment to developing young leaders dedicated to the continent's advancement. Both Whitman and Oyebode were recognized for their significant contributions to the advancement of African affairs. 

In her remarks, Whitman highlighted Africa's burgeoning influence, noting that by 2050, one in four people on Earth will reside on the continent, and one in three working-age individuals will live in Africa. She emphasized the urgency for businesses and organizations to continue to engage with Africa proactively, stating, "One can envision the continent as the center of the next generation of entrepreneurs, a home of manufacturing, technology and modern agriculture that could help feed the world.”

Similarly, in his work throughout Africa, and especially in Nigeria, Oyebode expressed the abundance of talent, expertise, and goodwill that he has witnessed across the continent. He shared his desire and efforts to increase access to education and how he foresees this as the most pivotal step in contributing to positive growth. “I think the future is bright. I’m happy that Princeton in Africa is doing all that it needs to do and I know you will do more,” he stated, referring to the need to develop leaders on the continent. During his speech, Oyebode highlighted fellow attendee, Fred Swaniker, founder of the African Leadership Academy and Founder & CEO of Sand Technologies, as an example of an African leader currently driving change.  

Gbenga Oyebode delivers his address to the gala attendees.

The gala spotlighted the transformative impact of technology, education, and leadership initiatives in Africa. Mary Maker, a South Sudanese refugee education activist and UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador, served as the Master of Ceremonies, reinforcing the event's focus on the critical role of education in shaping Africa's future. Princeton in Africa's Executive Director, Damilola Akinyele Wolfgarten, remarked on the organization's mission to connect visionary individuals with impactful organizations across Africa, fostering collaborative and lasting partnerships. 

Both Whitman and Oyebode’s presence at the gala not only honored their past achievements but also reinforced the shared understanding among attendees of Africa's central importance in today's interconnected world. Their insights and leadership continue to inspire efforts aimed at sustainable development and global cooperation, highlighting the continent's vital role in shaping the future. To see photos from the event, click HERE.

Capturing 25 Years of Impact: An Interview with Kristen Tam, 2023-24 PiAf Fellow, International Livestock Research Institute, Kenya

Q: Was there a moment, or a specific clip from the video that stuck with you while you were editing?
Kristen: I was really inspired listening to the clip of ID sharing his experience as a PiAf Nexus Fellow. It was such a joy to see his genuine appreciation of the program and how it's impacted him. We were in the same PiAf cohort in Nairobi, Kenya, and connected during orientation. I have fond memories of ID, so hearing his voice again—and hearing it in such a positive light—was especially moving.

What struck me most was how he encouraged others from the continent to apply. That really highlights how PiAf’s impact reaches beyond its American Fellows. It’s been especially meaningful for Nexus Fellows, who come from Africa, to have access to opportunities that help them grow their careers and networks in ways they might not have otherwise.

Q: How did visuals play a role in how you told this story?
Kristen: The visuals help people truly picture and appreciate PiAf’s 25 years of impact. It was beautiful to include archival photos to show how the organization has evolved over the years and to honor past Fellows and their work across the continent. We also showcased current Fellows in action, which added a sense of continuity and progress. The video takes us through the 25 years of PiAf’s journey—fitting for a celebration of a quarter-century of service.

Q: What kind of impact do you hope the video will have on the audience and on PiAf?
Kristen: I hope viewers come away with an understanding that it takes a village to keep the PiAf community thriving. This program doesn’t run on its own. It relies on the dedication of donors, partners, and organizations working together to provide Fellows with meaningful experiences while serving the continent.

The video offers a glimpse into what being a PiAf Fellow in Africa over the past 25 years has been like. For people who have never been or will never be able to visit Africa, the video shows how they can contribute to PiAf's work on the continent. My hope is that anyone who cares about service, who is eager to learn about healthcare, humanitarian needs, and environmental issues in Africa, will feel inspired to get involved. Whether it’s through supporting the program or spreading the word, everyone can play a role in continuing this impactful work.

Alumni Mentorship Program: Building Bridges Across Generations

Princeton in Africa's Alumni Mentorship Program, which launched in 2017, was built to provide an additional layer of support to current Fellows by pairing them with a PiAf alum throughout their fellowship year. Since it's inception, the program has continued to grow and has been an invaluable resource to Fellows. 

When Rachael Mutisya, 2023-24 Fellow, Mpala, Kenya, connected with her alumni mentor Emma Impink, 2011-12 Fellow, The BOMA Project, Kenya, she gained not only a professional advisor, but a genuine advocate and steadfast champion for her entire fellowship journey.

This mentorship story exemplifies the lasting impact of Princeton in Africa's commitment to fostering connections across fellowship years and geographic boundaries. By pairing current Fellows with alumni who have walked similar paths, PiAf is creating an invaluable support network that enhances the fellowship experience and strengthens our community.

PiAf Mentorship Program: By the Numbers

• 7 in 10 Fellows reported that the Alumni Mentor program added significant value to their fellowship experience.
• 4 in 5 Fellows rated high compatibility with their mentors.

Join us in celebrating these meaningful connections that continue to strengthen the PiAf community across generations and continents!