Out of Africa, Inspiration, and Then Back Again

Good leaders are hard to find, so when you do come across one, you need to make sure they're nurtured. That's the role of the African Leadership Institute, a not-for-profit body who's goal to encourage a new generation to helm Africa to success in business, government and civil society. Recently, 23 participants from across Africa met in Oxford to partake in a series of inspiring sessions. They got the excitement of meeting former Archbishop Desmond Tutu, the institute's patron, and then the apprehension of meeting Prof Eddie Obeng, the “archangel” of change.

On Saturday morning, the bleary-eyed delegates woke up to a two hour session with Eddie. Not to be daunted by what's traditionally a dead slot, Eddie explored the idea of leadership with the participants, particularly looking at the idea of using technology to make the most of the great opportunities available in Africa. He also helped the young social entrepreneurs further develop their exciting ideas, like a co-operative abattoir. With such sound guidance, these leaders will turn the Birthplace of Humanity into a birthplace for innovation.