Three students in the LSE International Development Department share their experience as members of the 13th Cohort of the Programme for African Leadership (PfAL), an extracurricular leadership programme available exclusively to African students studying for a master’s degree at LSE hosted within the Firoz Lalji Institute for Africa. Since its establishment in 2012, PfAL has been a catalyst in empowering a new generation of African leaders. These leaders are equipped to promote the best economic and social development practices in their respective organisations and countries to create an impact on the African continent.

Name: Farzana Ibrahim

Programme: MSc Development Management with Applied Development Economics

The programme will run over the course of the academic year and is comprised of a structured set of monthly activities designed to provide an opportunity for students to develop project management and leadership skills.

A highlight of the Autumn term was the Group Project Competition. This project is designed to facilitate the development of core leadership competencies and skills, particularly your capacity to think creatively and critically to produce novel ways of addressing complex, real-world issues. My team, presenting on ‘Youth Health and Sexual Reproductive Health Rights’, emerged as the winners of the Group Project.

PfAL was a special part of my master’s programme here at LSE. It provided a community of brilliant people passionate about creating change for the continent. FLIA hosts a ‘Lunch and Learn Series’ every Monday where researchers working on Africa present their work to an audience. This series was a favourite and exposed me to a body of research beyond my field.

Through PfAL, I have engaged with business leaders and current and former heads of state and government. This engagement has provided invaluable insights into the intricacies of leadership and governance on the African continent. Many of the members of PfAL make up the team that organises the annual LSE Africa Summit. This summit serves as a vital platform for bringing together diverse perspectives, fostering collaborative solutions to the continent’s most pressing challenges, and working towards a shared vision in shaping Africa’s future.

I made lifelong friends at PfAL, and they wanted to have intellectual conversations. Great company, music, food (I can confirm that Nigerian and Ghanaian Jollof taste about the same 😊), and friends who were great support systems when I felt homesick. I encourage all eligible students to sign up for PfAL, as it provides invaluable experiences and connections that will last a lifetime.

Name: Djehane Vally

Programme: MSc Development Management 

Being part of the Programme for African Leadership (PfAL) has been an enriching experience. During my time at PfAL, I have met engaging and motivated individuals, all committed to contributing to the African continent. Witnessing this passion from the students and participating in meaningful events has been a great experience.

One of the highlights of my year was participating in the PfAL debates, where I worked with a dedicated team on regional integration in Africa through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). This experience allowed me to learn about the complexities of African trade and gave me a better understanding of the subject. Moreover, PfAL stood out as an opportunity to expand my knowledge of the rich and diverse African continent. I loved the first Ubuntu Café at the beginning of the year, as it provided a platform for interesting discussions and cultural exchange.

I am confident that the connections I have made through PfAL will endure for many years. I encourage anyone eligible to apply and contribute as much as possible.

Name: Nyashadzashe Mandivenga

Programme: MSc Development Management (African Development Specialism)

Looking at my PfAL certificate fills me with a great sense of achievement. As I look back on the year and see how much I have learned and grown thanks to the program and the wonderful people who make PfAL great, I feel a sense of achievement. The program promised to educate, challenge, and inspire students while providing many opportunities for us to reflect on our development as future leaders of African organisations and communities, and it did not disappoint.

From the leadership workshops to debates to group projects, PfAL challenged and encouraged me to build my confidence, skills, and knowledge. Each workshop was thoughtfully designed to equip us with practical leadership skills, from strategic thinking to effective communication, and the debates pushed us to think critically and articulate our ideas clearly and persuasively.

The group projects not only fostered collaboration and teamwork but pushed us to think of practical ways we can make positive on the continent right where we were. It was something special to be given an environment to build myself up along other future (and current) African leaders uplifting and challenging each other to be better. The camaraderie and mutual support among my peers is truly remarkable. We share our aspirations, support each other through challenges, and celebrate each other’s successes. This sense of community is a powerful motivator, constantly pushing me to strive for excellence and comforting me, knowing I’m part of such a great community.

PfAL has truly inspired and equipped me with the tools and mindset necessary to effect positive change in Africa. The program taught me the importance of creativity, adaptability, and continuous learning. The exposure to diverse perspectives and the chance to engage with accomplished mentors and guest speakers broadened my horizons and deepened my understanding of the complex issues but most importantly opportunities facing our continent. All in all, my journey with PfAL has truly been transformative. The skills, networks, and family I have gained are invaluable gifts that I will carry with me throughout my career.

The views expressed in this post are those of the author and do not reflect those of the International Development LSE blog or the London School of Economics and Political Science.

Featured image: 13th Cohort of the Programme for African Leadership