Barack Obama Instagram – In his 2013 eulogy of Nelson Mandela, President @BarackObama challenged young leaders in Africa to embrace their own leadership power, and to continue the advocacy work Mandela started.
This Mandela Day, we’re inspired by the incredible #ObamaLeaders, like Thokozile “Thoko” Nhlumayo, who have picked up the baton of change.
Whether she’s promoting her #NotTooYoungToLead movement or advocating as Secretary General of the International Youth Parliament, Thoko is passionate about getting young people in Africa involved in political engagement and harnessing their own power for good.
Throughout her time in the Obama Foundation’s Leaders Africa program, Thoko strengthened her leadership skills and made strong connections with other changemakers across the African continent. Sharing ideas, working through challenges, and offering advice to her peers became a constant in Thoko’s time in the program.
“The biggest takeaway for me was learning how to use storytelling as a tool for my activism,” Thoko shared. “It was through the Leaders Africa program that I was brave enough to pen my story and finally became a published author, so that my story can be heard by many people like myself.”
Thoko’s published story highlights the challenges she has faced, especially as a female, queer activist in Africa.
“My heart yearns for a future where politics in Africa is truly a place of belonging for all,” Thoko wrote. “My fervent dream is that Africa will recognize that every individual has the capacity to make meaningful contributions to governance and the democratic process.”
Last December, Thoko joined @MichelleObama for a special conversation with other #ObamaLeaders in South Africa.
“It was such an empowering experience to gain from her wealth of knowledge,” Thoko said. “It was also amazing to reconnect with other #ObamaLeaders who are leading change across Africa.” | Posted on 18/Jul/2024 23:40:06
