In our first year, The Diaspora Academy has shown what we’ve known to be true: diaspora leaders are a powerful force for change when they have the right tools and support.

After over two decades working in diaspora engagement, advocacy, and leadership development, I launched The Diaspora Academy to help diaspora changemakers and champions turn their ideas into action. This year, I’ve had the privilege of working directly with entrepreneurs, advocates, and leaders who are building a better future for their communities—and the impact we’ve made together has been incredible.

Real Results with Real Impact

In our first year, we trained 160 diaspora leaders around the world, through courses, workshops and coaching sessions. Our Diaspora 101 course and our Diaspora Advocacy trainings gave participants more than just inspiration—it gave them actionable strategies and the confidence to launch meaningful initiatives.

• “TDA completely changed my perspective on what it means to be an effective advocate!” – Heba S., Diaspora Entrepreneur

Through one-on-one coaching, I worked closely with entrepreneurs and small business owners to refine their business models and overcome challenges unique to diaspora communities. Together, we created strategies that led to real growth.

• “Every nugget of advice and wisdom TDA gave us was essential in making our project delivery a success. We would recommend TDA's services as a 'must have'! ” – Vanessa B., Small Business Owner

When the Sudanese diaspora faced urgent humanitarian response needs, we hosted the Sudan Diaspora Advocacy Workshop to equip Sudanese-American diaspora leaders with the tools to effectively advocate and shape US-Sudan policy. It was a reminder of the power diasporas have to create immediate and lasting impact.

Our Work Was Recognized

The world noticed our efforts. The Africa Report, Semafor Africa, and The Guardian Nigeria News featured The Diaspora Academy for our focus on redefining diaspora engagement and diaspora philanthropy.

At the Nigerian Diaspora Investment Summit, I delivered the closing keynote address and spoke about how diaspora investments are transforming economies and creating global partnerships. Hearing from attendees who felt inspired to take action after the summit reminded me why I started this journey in the first place.

• "Engagement with the United States’ African diaspora is all the rage these days, from President Joe Biden’s first-ever advisory council to the growing number of African nations looking to attract migrants’ wealth back home. One woman has been at it since long before it was fashionable." - The Africa Report

This Is Just the Beginning

This year, we proved that The Diaspora Academy is more than a resource—it’s a partner for impact. From guiding leaders to launch initiatives to helping small businesses grow and amplifying the voices of advocates, we are committed to showing what’s possible when diasporas lead with purpose.

As I reflect on this first year, I’m so thankful for the partnerships we've built and excited for what’s next. If you’re ready to take action, build your vision, and create lasting impact, join us. Let’s make it happen together.