I established LEAP in May 2002 based on two personal convictions:
First, that Africa desperately needed a new generation of visionary, ethical, creative and disciplined servant leaders. Second, that a small group of people who shared the same vision could work together to change their communities, countries and in deed the world.
Six years on, we have not quite changed Africa, West Africa, Nigeria or even Lagos. However, thanks to our growing army of committed change agents, we have lit a fire in the hearts and minds of young people, business owners and social entrepreneurs across the Continent. Many have in turn commenced change efforts, starting with their own lives, and then gradually expanding their efforts to their families, companies and communities.
I am truly proud of the strides that LEAP Africa has made over the past six years. I can only attribute our results to the grace of God, a truly exceptional Board, a dedicated team and our visionary and committed funders.
2007 was a truly pivotal year in the history of LEAP Africa. Against all odds, we were able to:
- Improve the quality and impact of our Youth and Business Leadership Programmes
- Conclude the Nigeria 2025 Scenarios Project, a joint project with the African Leadership Institute
- Graduate the first class of Africa Leadership Initiative West Africa (ALIWA) Fellows, a joint project with the Databank Foundation, Technoserve and the Aspen Institute
- Launch our 2nd Book Get on Board: A Practical Guide to Building High-impact Boards of Directors
The credit for the accomplishments of the year should only be attributed to the LEAP staff and Board, especially Dr. Nadu Denloye a truly exceptional leader - who stepped up and stepped into the hearts of all the staff during my prolonged absence.
As a proud African woman, who has written and taught countless entrepreneurs about succession planning, I am really proud to have formally handed over the leadership of LEAP to two terrific women Mosun Layode, our Executive Director and Ngozi Obigwe our Chief Operating Officer. Both of these women have been an important part of LEAP's history, and I am so delighted that they are leading LEAP into a bright future.
Our work is not done! In fact, we have only scratched the surface of Africa's leadership challenge. However, I am more convinced today than I was 6 years ago, that in our life time, with your continued support, we will inspire, empower and equip a new generation of principled, disciplined and creative leaders who will transform Nigeria, West Africa and indeed the Continent of Africa.
