As I sit down to pen my reflections, I am reminded of the twists and turns that have shaped my journey from a mere bystander to an active participant in the global Afro-diaspora leadership movement. It's a journey marked by encounters with inspiring individuals like Maudo Jallow, transformative experiences at prestigious summits and conferences, and a newfound sense of purpose and belonging.
Growing up in Switzerland, I often felt like a bystander in a world where ambition and identity were not always fostered. It wasn't until I ventured to the United Kingdom, particularly London, that I began to see the transformative impact of seeing black and African role models in positions of power and influence. It was here that I first encountered Maudo, a few years my senior and one of the students organizing the LSE Africa Summit. His passion, his drive, and his commitment to empowering the Afro-diaspora community left quite an indelible mark on me.
Attending events like the LSE Africa Summit and the Oxford Africa Business Conference opened my eyes to a world where African leaders, thinkers, and innovators were celebrated, where the diaspora was recognized as a force to be reckoned with. It was at these gatherings that I found a sense of belonging and empowerment – a realization that my voice mattered, and that having had this privilege of insight, I had a role to play in spreading it, helping to also shape the narrative of the Afro-diaspora by creating more of such insight—full spaces.
Yesterday, as I stood on stage at the HSG Africa Summit in St. Gallen, Switzerland, I couldn't help but reflect on the journey that had brought me here. It was a full-circle moment – a testament to the power of perseverance, resilience, and the unwavering belief in the potential of all members of the Afro-diaspora. And as I looked out at the faces in the audience, particularly students (but also some parents), I saw echoes of my own journey – individuals hungry for inspiration, eager and ready to make a difference, and determined to defy the „Swiss“ odds.
Today, as I continue to be a part of the Afro-diaspora dialogue movement, I do so with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment. No longer content to be a bystander, I am determined to be an active participant – to lend my voice, my talents, and my energy to the cause of empowering our community and driving positive change in the world.
In Maudo, I found a mentor, a friend, and a source of inspiration. But in myself, I found the strength and the courage to step out of the shadows and into the light. And as I continue to embrace this mission in my human journey, I do so with gratitude for the past, hope for the future, and a deep sense of pride in being a part of something truly extraordinary – the global Afro-diaspora leadership movement.
Love and Light,
Tallulah
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