In a bid to empower and uplift young Africans, the Future Africa Leadership Award (FALA), an initiative under the auspices of the Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Foundation, has bestowed a total grant of $125,000 upon its top 10 winners. The initiative aims to support the development initiatives undertaken by these young leaders in their respective nations.
Thorough Selection Process
Olajumoke Ola-Akinsanya, Senior Executive Officer of FALA, shared details with the media in Lagos, highlighting the meticulous selection process. Out of 30 nominees, the organizers carefully screened applications to identify the most impactful and innovative projects. Each of the 10 recipients received $10,000, while the overall best winner was awarded an additional $25,000 as the coveted star prize.
Criteria for Recognition
Ola-Akinsanya explained that the criteria for selection were based on the project’s impact, innovation, and self-sustainability. The focus was on initiatives that were not merely replicating ideas from outside Africa but were homegrown and feasible.
Pastor Titi Temisan Affirms Mission
Pastor Titi Temisan, representing the Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Foundation, emphasized that the Future Africa Leadership Award seeks to address the leadership deficit in Africa by acknowledging exceptional young leaders who have made significant contributions to their communities. The foundation’s message is clear: Africa’s development lies in the hands of its own people.
A Decade of Impact
Initiated by Pastor Oyakhilome 11 years ago, the annual award has recognized outstanding leadership among young Africans for over a decade. So far, 123 young Africans from 30 different countries have received the award, each gaining a grant of $10,000. The star prize winner, considered the best among the best, receives an additional $25,000.
Ensuring Accountability and Mentorship
To ensure the judicious use of the grants, the foundation has established monitoring structures for award recipients. According to Pastor Titi Temisan, the foundation’s effort is part of a broader initiative to contribute to the continent’s development, emphasizing that relying solely on the government is insufficient.
Impactful Projects on the Horizon
Mariama Gendemh, the overall winner of the star prize from Sierra Leone, expressed gratitude, highlighting that the grants would aid her foundation in addressing food security issues and contributing to various socio-economic challenges in Sierra Leone. The awards not only provide financial support but also include mentorship, aligning with the foundation’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of African leaders.
Source: Independent NG