I’m off to the states for the Mandela Washington Fellowship.

I still cant believe I was accepted.

The Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders is the flagship program of the U.S. Government’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI). Since 2014, nearly 4,400 young leaders from every country in Sub-Saharan Africa have participated in the Fellowship. The Fellows, between the ages of 25 and 35, are accomplished leaders and have established records of promoting innovation and positive impact in their communities and countries. In 2020, the Fellowship will provide 700 outstanding young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa with the opportunity to hone their skills at a U.S. college or university with support for professional development after they return home.

I almost gave up on this dream after applying for the past 5 years and hearing nothing. In February I got the call, I made the final interviews, I didn’t tell anyone, worried I would set myself up for disappointment.

As I gave up on the dream, realising that Covid-19 has brought all international travel and most events to a standstill, I receive an Email. “Congratulations, you have been accepted”. The fellowship has been moved to 2021.

I am beyond excited.

I was selected based on my impact work over the past 10 years and my vision with Brownie Points a digital platform making it easy, fun and rewarding to make a meaningful difference. The platform supports Companies and charities manage their good deeds and impact, but the big dream is to ensure every South African has equal access to their basic human rights including quality education, healthcare, food, shelter and things like data.

I am also incredibly grateful to be part of the CN&CO team, that constantly challenge me, give me the freedom to chase dreams and believes in adding value to our clients, colleagues and fellow South Africans.

Heres a short video: