The Adinkra Fellowship today announces its 2026 Cohort, a distinguished group of twenty exceptional Black leaders selected from 1,257 applications representing 84 countries across Africa and the global diaspora. 

Representing diverse fields including technology, governance, education,  entrepreneurship, and community development, the Fellows reflect the breadth, depth, and global reach of contemporary Black leadership.

Chosen through a highly competitive, merit-based selection process, the 2026 Fellows are recognized not only for professional excellence, but for their proven ability to mobilize communities and drive meaningful change. 

Their work spans continents and sectors, yet is united by a shared commitment to leadership grounded in impact, integrity, and service.

“This cohort represents exactly why we created the Adinkra Fellowship,” said Richard Seshie, Founding Partner of the Adinkra Fellowship, speaking on behalf of the Fellowship’s co-founders, Imani Missouri and Meron Fikru. 

“This is about shaping the future of Black leadership, together, across borders—at a time when global leadership is being redefined.” 

The Adinkra Fellowship is a global leadership initiative that identifies, connects, and elevates rising Black leaders under the age of 40, strengthening ties between Africa and its diaspora through mentorship, peer exchange, and collaborative leadership experiences, cultivating leaders equipped to address complex global challenges.

As part of the 2026 program, Fellows will convene in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, from February 12 to 15, 2026, for an in-person immersion featuring high-level dialogues, cultural engagements, and collaborative work designed to deepen cross-continental relationships and ground the Fellowship in lived African contexts.

The selection process was overseen by a distinguished jury composed predominantly of journalists and media executives, ensuring independence, rigor, and public-interest credibility. In addition to the Fellowships, the Adinkra Fellowship will also bestow Special Honors recognizing Career Achievement and Outstanding Black Leadership, celebrating individuals whose work has expanded pathways for Black excellence worldwide.

The Fellowship’s reach spans 84 countries, unified by a mission to lead, connect, and elevate Black excellence globally.

For the full list of Fellows and additional information, visit www.adinkrafellowship.com.

Media Contact

Nancy Muthoni

Digital Communications Lead, Adinkra Alliance Institute

team@adinkrafellowship.com  

About Adinkra Alliance Institute:

Founded in 2023, the Adinkra Alliance Institute is dedicated to advancing leadership, development, and positive impact across diverse communities worldwide. Through initiatives that champion development, environmental justice, and equity, the Institute celebrates and uplifts those making a lasting impact.

Visit www.adinkrainstitute.com to learn more.

2026 Adinkra Fellowship Cohort

● Adam Sotomayor – Global strategist strengthening diaspora engagement and international collaboration.

● Aline Coelho – Founder of Fundo Agbara, empowering over 4,000 women globally.

● Allie Bangura – Founder of ADAN Impact, driving inclusive growth and entrepreneurship.

● Aubin Ngoua – Energy innovator driving Gabon’s renewable transformation through patented solar technologies.

● Ay’Anna Moody – Philanthropic leader advancing youth empowerment, education, and equity.

● Bella Hounakey – Presidential Award winner translating lived experience into survivor-centered systems change.

● Brian Kwesiga – Engineer, entrepreneur, and civic leader strengthening African identity globally through The eHub Group and diaspora engagement.

● Caleb L. Green – Attorney and advocate focused on education, legal equity, and youth mentorship.

● Cierra Wells – Social entrepreneur and World Bank strategist fostering inclusive economic growth.

● Dr. Ikenna Ezealah – Policy strategist shaping African institutions and trade frameworks.

● Ebenezer Oyajumo – Entrepreneur expanding financial access for immigrant and African communities.

● Eihorere Wesigye – Strategic investor fostering sustainable African enterprises and diaspora collaboration.

● Julio Mupemba – Co-founder of Africa Finance Bootcamp, building investment readiness for entrepreneurs.

● Karen Saidi – Legal innovator expanding access to justice across East Africa through technology, policy advocacy, and legal aid networks.

● Loubao Kraka – Fintech entrepreneur leveraging AI-powered lending to expand SME access to capital.

● Manar O. Benessaidi – African Union advisor advancing climate action, inclusion, and gender-responsive policy.

● Mary Katambi – Social entrepreneur empowering young women through technology and entrepreneurship.

● Olugbenga Ogunbowale – Tech entrepreneur connecting African innovators to funding and mentorship.

● Sabere Traore – Physician and health policy expert advancing equitable health systems across Africa.

● Soro Nazonna Karim – Tech innovator designing accessible digital solutions and developing African tech talent.