Bongani Njalo, trained as an artist and originally from Port Elizabeth, has had a career that spans across South Africa and the broader African continent. In 2016, he applied for the Mandela Washington Fellowship through YALI because, while working as the project coordinator for PAD—a university arts initiative—he realized he needed to develop his leadership skills to advance the program further.

The fellowship experience in the U.S. was transformative. Bongani recognized that his previous efforts were less impactful than they could have been. Since returning, YALI has expanded his academic knowledge, enhanced his leadership abilities, and connected him with a valuable Pan-African network. This has also led to incredible funding opportunities for the foundation he has established.

In just a month since his return, YALI opened doors for funding in the creative industries, contributing to South Africa’s and Africa’s broader economy.

Courtesy: YALI RLC Southern Africa

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USAID will host a Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Alumni Expo and Trade Show (YALI Expo) from November 11 to 14, 2024, at the Cape town International Convention Centre in South Africa.

The YALI Expo aims to convene, connect, and celebrate YALI alums making positive changes in their communities by creating networking opportunities showcasing their innovations for sustainable impact and connecting them with investors, policymakers, ecosystem partners, and
the African diaspora. The YALI Expo will also tell stories of successful alumni who have made a difference in their communities.

Discover: www.yaliexpo.com

#yaliexpo24 ,#yali4impact, #YALIBeyondBorders

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