Applications Now Open

LDI Africa’s Global Fellowship Program
Deadline: November 30, 2016
http://www.ldiafrica.org

 

We are pleased to open applications for the LDI Africa Spring 2017 Global  Fellowship Program!

LDI Africa is seeking dynamic leaders for our prestigious fellowships. These fellowship programs connect professionals from around the world to Africa, and African business leaders to the United States. Applications are now open for our Spring 2017 Fellowship:

Emerging Institutions Fellowship Program connects global professionals to serve Africa’s best profit and nonprofit organizations. Fellows serve organizations such as One Acre Fund in Malawi, Startup Your Life in Morocco, and Generational Enterprise in Nigeria. During this yearlong program while making a difference on the continent, Fellows receive travel assistance, medical insurance and a paid work-placement opportunity. This program is ideal for a global professional seeking on the ground experience in an emerging market, particularly Africa.


To Apply:  Qualified candidates should APPLY on our website. For more details about eligibility requirements and the application process, please visit ApplyLDIAfrica2017. To make further inquiries about the fellowship, please email .

    2016 Emerging Institutions Fellowship Program 

    LDI Africa is an award winning social enterprise that connects African organizations, entrepreneurs and professionals to the global marketplace using the expertise of skilled volunteers. 

    We need your help to identify rising business and social enterprise leaders to apply for the fellowship positions at LDI Africa particularly the opportunities listed below. Fellows will have the unique opportunity to work with Africa’s best investment funds and position emerging businesses towards the path of sustainable growth. You can help either through word of mouth, social media, or email communication. 

    Interested candidates should send cover letter and resume to with the interested position in the subject line of the email by May 30, 2016.  Earlier submissions will be given priority.  

    =================================

      

    Esoko
    Location: Nairobi, Kenya

    Esoko is an information and communication service for agricultural markets in Africa. Through partnerships with businesses, governments and NGOs provide advice to farmers (in the form of market prices, weather forecasts, and growing tips) to help them increase yields and profits.

    Description: Fellows will serve at Esoko as Commerce Solutions Lead, and Director of International Sales and Marketing.

    Commerce Solutions Lead: We are looking for someone with extensive experience managing complex projects in the design, development and deployment of mobile applications, especially digital financial services and/or m-commerce

    Director of International Sales & Marketing: We are looking for someone who is equally strong on strategy and process, understands what agri-businesses need, and is passionate about the opportunity to work in a private sector tech company with huge potential for increased social impact and scale.

     

    BURN Manufacturing Co. Location: Nairobi, Kenya  

    Description: Fellow will serve at BURN Manufacturing as Visual Designer. BURN designs, manufactures, and distributes aspirational fuel-efficient cooking products that save lives and forests in the developing world.  BURN has revolutionized the global cookstove sector by proving the business case for selling high quality, locally manufactured, and unsubsidized cookstoves.   We are looking for an extraordinary Visual Designer to create and produce print, digital, and media content to further the BURN mission. 

     

    Emerging Cooking Solutions. Location: Lusaka, Zambia

    Description: Fellow will serve at Emerging Cooking Solutions as Financial Controller. Emerging Cooking Solutions Zambia Limited is a Zambian/Swedish joint venture, introducing clean burning modern cook-stoves and renewable cooking fuel pellets made from waste biomass. The pellets, stoves and heating/power solutions are branded as “SupaMoto® Energy”.  We are looking for a Financial Controller who is able to coach our finance admin/team, improving existing systems and prepare the company for rapid growth. Another critical competency is the ability to advise our management team on strategic issues and be involved in developing existing and new business areas.

     

    Accion Microfinance Bank Limited. Location: Lagos, Nigeria

    Description: Fellow will serve at Accion Microfinance Bank Limited as Human Resource Information Systems Manager (HRIS). Accion Microfinance Bank Limited is one of the largest microfinance banks in Nigeria with a capitalization of N1.7bn and total asset of N2.7bn as December 31, 2012. Its shareholders include three of the leading commercial banks in Nigeria: Citibank, Zenith Bank and Ecobank, as well as three global financial institutions: IFC, a member of the World Bank, SME Managers and ACCION Investments. We are seeking someone for our HRIS manager position to be responsible for managing and overseeing the Bank’s human resource information system. This role will require working closely with members of the Information Technology team to ensure that the HR data is captured accurately and integrity is maintained. 

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, April 18, 2016
    MEDIA CONTACT:  Winifred 
    Odonye 
    |202-460-5427|  winifred@ldiafrica.org

    LDI AFRICA LAUNCHES THE BROAD STREET FUND
     

    [WASHINGTON, DC] LDI Africa proudly announces the 2016 Broad Street Fund Fellows, a diverse group of entrepreneurs from Uganda, Nigeria, Venezuela, Australia and United States. 

    The fellowship commenced in Washington DC with training in impact investing, social enterprise and emerging markets. It was delivered in conjunction with the Frontier Market Scout Fellowship. Through the combination of workshops and actionable co-creative projects, participants gain a comprehensive understanding of the ecosystem and framework for market-based solutions. The topics include Scaling High-Impact Social Enterprises, Designing Innovative Business Model, Diligence Process and Decision in Impact Investment, Profiling Ventures for Impact Investing, and Managing Impact Investing Portfolios. Fellows acquired professional certificate training in Impact Investing and Social Enterprise awarded by the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey. Over the next 12 months, Fellows will receive various forms of technical assistance and investment opportunities.  

    The Broad Street Fund Fellowship supports non U.S. enterprises to expand to the United States. The program complements efforts of the United States Government to increase trade and economic partnerships with Africa through the extension of The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), and several Trade Missions to the continent.

    Over 100 applications were received from 32 countries for the program. The successful candidates represent industries which included Technology, Agriculture, Fashion and Social Enterprise. The shortlisted Fellows and their respective businesses are:

    • Kelechi Mbah - Service Desk Ltd, Nigeria
    • Aaron Aguerrevere - QuikVote, Venezuela
    • Abimbola Seun - Trads.ng, Nigeria
    • Keturah Ovio-Onoweya - Qeturah, Nigeria
    • Derrick Hosea Opio - One Lamp  Uganda
    • Bear Kruz - Spear, Australia
    • Fatia Adesanya - Duo Prints-Impress, Nigeria
    • Kayode Ajayi Smith - Joint Initiative for Development, Nigeria
    • Anika Hobbs -  Nubian Hueman, USA

    We are now seeking support, collaboration and investment opportunities for these businesses. You can make a financial contribution at https://igg.me/at/3kHbwgWjesk/8253462

    ABOUT THE BROAD STREET FUND
    The Broad Street Fund is a program of LDI Africa that supports the global competition of business leaders from the world’s emerging markets, particularly in Africa. The program provides the infrastructure, community, and resources needed for emerging business leaders to scale their ventures internationally through a 3-week to 12-month fellowship in the United States.

    Talent Africa Series 2015

    November 03, 2015

    Talent Africa Series
    Coming to Africa: Dynamic Ways to Explore Professional Opportunities on the Continent
    Date - November 10, 2015
    Location - Washington DC
    RSVP - Here

    About Event:

    International service is increasingly becoming a pathway to gaining global leadership experience. Whereas various industry opportunities existed in other parts of the world. In Africa, service opportunities tended to revolve around humanitarian and community development. Recently, with the advent of the Africa Rising narrative and the US government engagement with young African leaders this is changing. Africa is now becoming the destination point for young global leaders to serve and make significant impact in sectors such as social enterprise, business, and education.

    Talent Africa Series spotlights three major organizations offering Africa focused Fellowships:

    LDI Africa Global Fellowship Program          

       

    Carnegie African Diaspora Fellowship Program 

     

     

    PYXERA GLOBAL (MBAs Without Borders)

     

     Come join us at the Wonder Bread Factory conference room (Shaw/Howard Metro Station) for a conversation to learn about their programs, application process, and share useful tips and opportunities on how to get involved. 

    RSVP - Here

    We are proud to welcome John-Ubong Silas 2014 Fellow at Olashore International School, Nigeria to the LDI Africa staff team as our new Senior Director Program and Engagement. After a successful year of service in Osun Nigeria, John-Ubong is now leading the Emerging Institutions Fellowship Program for LDI Africa.

    About John-Ubong Silas:

    John-Ubong Silas is a leading human capital expert with specialization in international education and partnership development. He serves as the Chief Relationship Officer at JUS Consulting, a consulting company serving educational institutions, government agencies, and nonprofits in the United States and Africa. At JUS Consulting, John-Ubong focuses on partnership development, program design and implementation, and strategic communication.  His work experience spans positions in leading American think tanks, United States Congress, U.S. federal government agencies, non-profit organizations, and universities. He splits his time between Lagos and Washington DC.

    For more information about the 2016 applications for Emerging Institutions Fellowship Program, please visit -    bit.ly/ApplyLDIAfrica2016

    Welcome to LDI Africa

    September 29, 2015

     


    Gbenga Ogunjimi (LDI Africa Founder CEO) Introduces LDI Africa’s Fellowship Program


     


    Welcome to LDI Africa! This is our introductory blog post, where we hope to provide you with a wider understanding of our mission which is to “Advance socio-economic development in Africa by deploying the talents of young African Diaspora and youth citizens from outside of the continent to nonprofits and small businesses that are struggling to attract skilled professionals”. Stand up, jump on one foot, and shout out for what you’re about to hear! LDI Africa demands an elimination of brain drain.


    What is brain drain?  Brain drain is a result of educated Africans leaving their native countries for a higher education. Although these Africans often receive an advanced degree, their intellect may not transcend back to Africa (if they choose not to return). The influx of Africans to the United States has increased exponentially in the last 50 years, according to the Migration Policy Institute, resulting in a void left in Africa. In fact, according to 2010 U.S. Census data, the percentage of African immigrants was at 3.5% in 2005, and rose to 6.6% of the foreign-born population in 2008. This has demonstrated a clear increase in African immigration to the U.S.


    Many young, eager, and bright Africans leave their respective countries in order to pursue a more advanced education. For many, the opportunity to study in Western countries provides a more rigorous and well-rounded educational experience. Yet, upon achieving an advanced degree, it is important to remember ones roots. Many students who leave for studies do not return.  This is why LDI Africa strives to invite young professionals from the African diaspora back to Africa, encouraging them to utilize their education and acquired skills, while also developing new skills.


    One of the most important skills that a fellowship service experience with LDI Africa will provide: a cultivation for volunteerism, and a fire in the belly for continuing to serve Africa in future professional endeavors. Yet, there have been recent efforts to bring more educational opportunities for young scholars in Africa. This New York Times article, Local Options Help Slow Africa’s Brain Drain, provides anecdotes of Africans seeking an advanced degree.


    “‘I have two kids. My youngest is still living at home, and so I needed a program where I didn’t have to quit my job or leave my family,’” is the concern of many who have established lives in Africa.


    Luckily, new programs such as the executive M.B.A. from Ceibs, a joint venture sponsored by the European Commission, the Chinese ministry of foreign trade, and Shanghai Jiao Tong University in Accra, Ghana, or Carnegie Mellon University’s new program in Kigali, Rwanda, are providing new options for young professional in Africa. Ceibs Director, Kwaku Atuahene-Gima, expressed his desire to stop the brain drain. “The conditions here mirror China 30 years ago, when if you wanted a top quality business education you had to travel overseas. Many of them didn’t come back,” he said.


    It encourages us that others are recognizing the necessity of increased educational opportunities in Africa. This creates excitement for LDI Africa’s vision, and for the whole continent.


    Amanda Lotz

    The Bougie Village

    September 29, 2015

    As I was trekking from Lagos to Iloko-Ijesa the town which would be my new home for a year, the changing landscapes informed me that a physical exiting from city live was happening.Through my rear view I saw pass huge structural buildings, heavy traffic, and millions of people navigating the urban sprawl as they started their day to a barren unpaved roads, stretches of nothing but vegetation, and the periodic herds of animal and their human acquaintance.  I was headed to the “village.”

    The transition from Washington D.C. , where I stayed, to Lagos felt like a shift in a car from first gear to second. A light subtle deceleration felt initially but the momentum/push of the ride remains the same. Except for a view sharp noticeable differences upon my arrival, I saw all the semblances of life back in the U.S.  But now feeling the occasional bumps on the dirt roads and glancing periodically at hawkers dangling fresh killed meat for purchase, I realized that this journey would be like nothing that I had experienced. It was like going from 2nd gear to shifting to reverse while fully accelerating. Exciting but startling. This is how I was feeling during the seven hour travel.
    Once I arrived at the gates of Olashore International School, I honestly did not know what to expect. What I encountered was an impressive self-contained and well maintained campus.  It boasted a library, computer labs, hostels for 750 students, multiple cafeterias, a 24 hour clinic, and housing accommodations for most of its staff. Now to be honest what I was most concerned at the time was my living quarters. I’m a city slicker. My first thoughts were how much “roughing it” would be required on my part. A year is a long time.  The best way I can describe my living arrangement is bougie village life. I’ve got all the basic amenities shower with hot and cold water, gas stove, microwave, air condition, refrigerator, and electricity plus satellite television.  At home, I’m good! Now looking for some things to do outside is a bit challenging. I will save that for another conversation.

     

    John-Ubong Silas



    Discovering South Africa

    September 29, 2015

    My experience with the Convergence Partners team was great. In month two, I had a better idea of the team dynamic and culture. I felt very welcomed; and integrated well with the diverse team. The level of humility displayed by the Chairman and Founding patterns amazed me as they treated everyone like equals and with respect. The work environment was professional, productive and fun at times. The team was young at heart and they all seemed very close, like a family. One of my observations that stood out the most was the passion expressed by the executive for ICT infrastructure development in Africa. I am very grateful for the knowledge they have imparted. Also, the firm offered me an opportunity to receive executive level training from SAVCA on PE and VC in Africa. The training was attended by private and public sector organizations.

    Socially, I ventured out a little. I visited some places outside of ‘Sandton’ like 7th Street in Melville and the atmosphere reminded me of U St. in Washington DC. I also planned a short visit to Alexandria (Alex) Township. Prior to the visit, I heard intimidating stories about the place but once there,  I found that the people seemed peaceful and happy. Nevertheless, I was shocked by the disparity of wealth between Sandton and Alex; a short distance of less than 20min apart.

    Another impactful experience occurred during a volunteer event with a portfolio company. Seacom held a Career Day at Tembisa Secondary High School, as part of its Corporate Social Investment program. Our goal was to provide information to Grades 8 – 12 students on career paths and give them advice on their éducation. Most of the students we spoke with had no plans for higher education mainly due to financial challenges and the disadvantages of living in a Township. Some students were determined to obtain a better éducation if and only they obtained scholarships. The only message that I could impart is my experience in the United States as a young immigrant child from a low-income household—no matter the obstacles, I didn’t give up and I often had to be creative to find opportunities for myself. However, I know I was fortunate to grow up in a country full of posibilities where student loans and employment were accessible. I told them the best decision I ever made was to take my studies seriously. I also advised the students that it takes lot of hard work, determination, and sacrifices to fulfill its dream; but they will see graduelle see results. There are many different paths to reach the same goalt; they just need to believe in themselves and have a solide plan. Finally, I advised students to reach out to people or programs that will connect them to professionals in their communities to learn  about their careers.

    Emma Fofanah


    The arrival in Nigeria

    September 29, 2015



    The transition from working to the United States to Nigeria was quick. After going through the “experience” that is Lagos airport, I settled into my hotel accommodations. The place was very comfortable and had a lot of the amenities that I would expect from a quality hotel in the US – including high speed internet service. In the morning, I was greeted by Ayo - my Olashore International School liaison. It turns out that Ayo had spent most of his time in the UK and had recently returned to Nigeria. We chatted about his experiences returning to Nigeria and adjusting to the transition both professionally and personally. I got some good insights from his perspective.

    A key point he mentioned was him balancing the need to incorporate certain best practices to his work environment without incurring negative feedback from colleagues. A reason for this could be that the proposed best practice did not work in Nigeria. Something that he experienced early on in his return. Another thing I gained from watching his interactions, was the noteworthy role age played in his professional exchanges. I knew that respect for your elders was an important culture value demonstrated socially in Nigeria. However, I had not thought of prior to my arrival how this would play out in the professional sphere. As me and Ayo were in the same age group, I recognized that this would be something that I would definitely needed to be mindful of during my tenure.

    My second day in Lagos was spent going to a press conference on secondary and post-secondary marketing for schools in Nigeria. Then followed by attending an Association of International School Educators of Nigeria (AISEN) meeting. You can say I hit the ground running. Both events were informative and provided some needed context to the space in which I would be inhabiting for the next year. My next destination would be to the rural location of Olashore International School.

     

    John-Ubong Silas

     


    Four Weeks in Maputo

    September 29, 2015

    It has been four weeks already since I arrived in Maputo, Mozambique, yet it feels like a week. There is a contrast between the dynamic at work and that in the city – the pace at work is fast, while that in the city is slow. So, I find myself in this paradox whereby I feel properly adjusted at work, but still need to readjust to the pace of the city and country. Work feels like it did back in the United States. Everyday life, on the other hand, runs a lot slower than it does in the United States. Incidentally, time also seems to move slower. In the United States, every glance at my watch revealed an hour gone by. In Maputo, every glance at my watch reveals five minutes gone by. To be fair, I have had the same impression in every other African country that I have been to.

    I spent my first month at work acclimatizing myself to the work environment, my colleagues, the company’s operations, and its clients and partners. I also designed and drafted a five-year strategy document for the company, which should be presented to the Board of Directors at the next Board Meeting. For that assignment, I collaborated with the Managing Director and Investment Manager. The experience gave me insight on how they work, think, and structure their deliverables. I have been attending a number of meetings, related to various projects, during which my opinions were sought and I was prompted to present certain arguments that I held convictions about. Such experiences are valuable because they reveal that there exists multiple approaches to issues and that opting for a particular approach is not an implicit rejection of other options.

    My most valuable experience of the month has been establishing a foundation of trust with my colleagues. With the management team, this implies ensuring as candid and effective communication with the managers as is possible. With the rest of the team, this means regular conversations about their personal backgrounds, interests, sports, and sharing lunch during lunch-breaks. The effort has been beyond worthwhile. I am confident that I am already forging solid understandings with my colleagues, especially those who are not in management. The reason I decided to do this is that I learned from my previous professional experiences that the most important thing in human relations is effective and constructive communication. This enhances the level of trust and understanding between individuals. Trust and understanding typically make for mutual progress.

    I am all about mutual progress.

     

    - Yana