Twenty exceptional changemakers selected from 1,257 applicants across 84 countries, representing global Black leadership
The Adinkra Fellowship today announces its 2026 Cohort, a distinguished group of twenty exceptional Black leaders selected from 1,257 applications representing 84 countries across Africa and the global diaspora. Representing diverse fields including technology, governance, education, entrepreneurship, and community development, the Fellows reflect the breadth, depth, and global reach of contemporary Black leadership.
Chosen through a highly competitive, merit-based selection process, the 2026 Fellows are recognized not only for professional excellence, but for their proven ability to mobilize communities and drive meaningful change. Their work spans continents and sectors, yet is united by a shared commitment to leadership grounded in impact, integrity, and service.
“This cohort represents exactly why we created the Adinkra Fellowship,” said Richard Seshie, Founding Partner of the Adinkra Fellowship, speaking on behalf of the Fellowship’s co-founders, Imani Missouri and Meron Fikru. “This is about shaping the future of Black leadership, together, across borders—at a time when global leadership is being redefined.”
The Adinkra Fellowship is a global leadership initiative that identifies, connects, and elevates rising Black leaders under the age of 40, strengthening ties between Africa and its diaspora through mentorship, peer exchange, and collaborative leadership experiences, cultivating leaders equipped to address complex global challenges.
As part of the 2026 program, Fellows will convene in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, from February 12 to 15, 2026, for an in-person immersion featuring high-level dialogues, cultural engagements, and collaborative work designed to deepen cross-continental relationships and ground the Fellowship in lived African contexts.
The selection process was overseen by a distinguished jury composed predominantly of journalists and media executives, ensuring independence, rigor, and public-interest credibility. In addition to the Fellowships, the Adinkra Fellowship will also bestow Special Honors recognizing Career Achievement and Outstanding Black Leadership, celebrating individuals whose work has expanded pathways for Black excellence worldwide.
The Fellowship’s reach spans 84 countries, unified by a mission to lead, connect, and elevate Black excellence globally.
About Adinkra Alliance Institute:
Founded in 2023, the Adinkra Alliance Institute is dedicated to advancing leadership, development, and positive impact across diverse communities worldwide. Through initiatives that champion development, environmental justice, and equity, the Institute celebrates and uplifts those making a lasting impact.
