By Fémi Èsan
The Global Network of Emerging Leaders in Nation-building, Glean Africa, has concluded its 4th Emerging Leaders Mentorship Program (ELMP) with a focus on developing transformational leadership capacity for nation-building.
The program, which began three months ago, brought together 200 emerging leaders from across the African continent. Through a blend of theoretical and practical training sessions, participants were equipped with the requisite leadership skills needed to drive transformation at various levels of influence.
Speaking during the concluding session of the training program, Dr. Jimlas Opeyemi Ogunsakin, Founder of Glean Africa, emphasized the essence of transformational leadership in tackling Africa’s pressing challenges.
He noted, “A nation is only as strong as its citizens. Leadership is not about occupying a position; it is about inspiring change, creating opportunities, and building sustainable systems that uplift communities.”
He further charged the cohort members to see themselves as agents of change, stating, “Africa’s potential lies in the hands of its young leaders. You have been trained not just to lead but to transform lives and foster development wherever you find yourselves.”
The ELMP is designed to raise credible successors of leaders who can effectively navigate the complexities of leadership and governance while fostering impactful collaborations. Participants are not only trained but also certified with opportunities to leverage both national and international networks for greater influence.
A highlight of the program is the focus on practical application, with each participant tasked to execute a community-based project. These projects addressed critical issues spanning education, health, economic, and innovation sectors, among others, showcasing the program’s commitment to creating immediate and tangible impact.
As the 4th ELMP cohort graduates, Glean Africa reaffirms its dedication to raising a new generation of African leaders who are well-prepared to tackle global challenges with local solutions.