National Conference 2025

About The Conference
February 21-22, 2025 | Atlanta, GA | Hosted by NAfSA and AUC Umoja ASA
Culture, Advocacy, Connection
Venue
Crowne Plaza Atlanta Midtown, 590 West Peachtree Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30308

Amplifying Impact Through Unity

Agenda Brief

The theme of the conference, “Charting the Course: Youth at the Helm of Africa’s Future,” highlights the critical role of young Africans in leading conversations that shape our continent’s future. Our generation possesses the skills, insights, and determination to drive meaningful change, and we believe now is the time for youth voices to take the forefront in decision-making spaces.

This conference aims to empower young diaspora Africans to recognize and harness their potential to lead transformative conversations, influence policy, and spearhead initiatives that impact Africa and its global standing. We seek to inspire a generation of diaspora youth who are not merely participants but true leaders at the table, shaping Africa’s destiny with boldness and vision.

Africa's Development & Movement Building

Friday Feb 21st

Alone a youth runs fast, with an elder slow, but together they go far. — Luo proverb

Step into a world of visionaries and changemakers as we embark on an extraordinary day dedicated to discussing the development of Africa and nurturing a vibrant diaspora movement. In the heart of this event, passionate minds will converge, igniting dynamic conversations about empowering the continent, fostering sustainable growth, and harnessing the immense potential of its people.

Through thought-provoking discussions, innovative ideas will take flight, weaving a tapestry of collaboration and solidarity across the African diaspora. We’ll explore ways to bridge gaps, celebrate diversity, and leverage the collective talents of those who carry Africa’s spirit within their hearts, no matter where they are in the world.

Africa's Development & Movement Building

Friday Feb 21st

Member Development & Celebration

Saturday Sept 2nd

“An empty stomach has no ears” – Haitian Proverb

A powerful movement begins with investing in our members’ personal and professional growth. By focusing on removing barriers in their personal and professional journey, we can ensure their long-term focus is on the movement. Additionally, by nurturing their skills and passions, we cultivate a community of driven individuals who lead with purpose and inspire others to join our cause. Together, we build a strong foundation for lasting impact, where every voice matters, and each member becomes a catalyst for positive change. Join us on this journey of empowerment and watch as our collective dedication transforms lives and shapes a brighter future for all.

Member Development & Bonding

Saturday Feb 22nd
Conference Keynote Speaker
  • Hon. Cristina Duarte

    United Nations Under-Secretary-General, Special Advisor on Africa
    Conference Speakers
    • Semhar Araia

      CEO and Founder of The Diaspora Academy
    • Nnamdi Nwaigwe

      Technical Program Manager at Google
    • Boum III Jr

      CEO, Daba Finance
    • Dr. Senait Kebede

      Global Health Professional & Pediatrician, Emory University
    • Benjamin Ogbonna

      Executive Director
    • Deborah Denis

      Research Initiatives Manager
    • Crystal Ikanih-Musa

      Immigration and Business Lawyer
    • Danielle Okonta

      Product Manager and Culture Leader for Tribaja
    • Hamse Warfa

      Chief Executive Officer, World Savvy
    • Motaz Attala

      Senior Program Officer, Engagement on the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
    • Sampson Kofi Adotey

      Director of Communications, Child Health and Mortality Prevention Surveillance (CHAMPS)
    • Iveren Ityoikaa

      African Diaspora Partnerships Manager, Ashoka
    • Mary Abodo

      President/Founder, NexoAfrica | Financial Analyst, Capital One.
    • Jennifer Barbosa

      Founder, International Supply LLC. | Atlanta Black Chamber
    • Diadji Diawara

      National President
    • Mary Omatiga

      Journalist - NBC Sports | Host of By Way of Africa
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    REGISTER BELOW
    OFFICIAL PARTNERS

    Policy Advocacy Program

    PARTNERS
    • AUC African Student Association (Umoja ASA)
    • African Awareness Week
    “Umuthi ugotshwa usemanzi”

    Activating the Diasporic Voice

    From the Southern Bantu language isiZulu comes a saying “Umuthi ugotshwa usemanzi” which translates to “a tree is bent while it is still wet”. The meaning of this proverb is that wisdom and behavioural influences are instilled when a person is still young.

    If we intend to create thought leaders, action-takers, and change-makers, we need to make sure that we teach our youth and the next generation the significance of what it means to have the future in their hands while they are still young, to empower them to become the next generation of world leaders. “

    – globalcitizen.org

    Message from Angola Vice President, H.E Esperança da Costa

    The Conference you have been waiting for.

    We are devoted to cultivating a high-quality, thought provoking and engaging conference that will leave all attendees and stakeholders yearning for more in order to see a sustainable development agenda for our nations with the diaspora’s involvement.

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