As Princeton in Africa celebrated a quarter century of fellowship placements, leadership development, and partnerships across Africa, ALN Chairman Gbenga Oyebode MFR and former US Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman were honoured at a gala ceremony for their outstanding contributions to leadership and service.
“Education is what I would like to see us change on the continent,” said Gbenga in his inspiring acceptance speech, saluting the impact of Princeton in Africa and many organisations involved in the programme. “We recognise the work that needs to be done, and we’re ready to do it … All of us are committed to the changes we deserve.”
Since 1999, Princeton in Africa, a non-profit affiliate of Princeton University, has placed over 700 Fellows with more than 100 organisations in 37 African countries.
During yearlong service placements, young leaders contribute to critical sectors such as public health, education, conservation, and international development. In 2023, the model was expanded to include the Nexus programme, which pairs a Nexus Fellow, educated and resident on the African continent, with a co-Fellow from the general Fellowship Program educated at a US-accredited institution.
“I have always been guided by a simple but powerful belief: when we invest in people, we unlock Africa’s true potential,” said Gbenga after his honour. “Whether through education, philanthropy, or strengthening institutions, my focus has always been on creating opportunities that outlive any one individual or moment.”
Gbenga, a legendary Nigerian lawyer, business leader, and philanthropist, praised Princeton in Africa for embodying the same mission — building a generation of leaders who are not only skilled but deeply committed to Africa’s progress.
Both he and Meg Whitman, who was the previous US Ambassador to Kenya and a former CEO of eBay, were honoured at the ceremony in New York for their outstanding contributions to leadership and service in Africa and their longstanding efforts to foster economic development and global collaboration.
“Africa’s future is bright when we invest in its people,” said Gbenga, while congratulating Princeton in Africa on 25 years of inspiring, life-changing impact.
“The work is far from done. I encourage all of us — especially leaders across sectors — to keep investing in young talent, to build stronger institutions, and to champion innovation across the continent. Africa’s best days are ahead.”
You can watch Gbenga Oyebode’s full acceptance speech here, and find more information about Princeton in Africa here.