African Leadership Academy

The African Leadership Academy was founded in 2004 by Fred Swaniker and Chris Bradford, who were named Echoing Green Fellowship winners in 2006 and described as two of the "15 best emerging social entrepreneurs in the world." Aiming to develop the next generation of African leadership from within the continent, the founders of the African Leadership Academy believe that ethical leadership is the key to a prosperous and sustainable future for Africa.

Housed at a boarding school in South Africa, the academy will open in 2008 and will offer 16- to 18-year-olds from every country in Africa training in leadership, entrepreneurship, and African studies. The goal is to prepare future African leaders to tackle the challenges they will inherit, while providing them a long-term support system of mentors, partners, and other leaders. Admission is based on academic merit and leadership potential, with financial aid available for those who need it. In a successful pilot summer program, more than 170 young leaders from 16 countries have already taken part in this innovative training.