Ashinaga Scholars Attend the African Diaspora Investment Symposium (ADIS26) in San Jose, California
Thank you to Almaz Negash, Founder and Executive Director of ADN for another year of partnership with Ashinaga USA!
Ashinaga USA is honored to mark our now 4-year partnership with the African Diaspora Network with four Ashinaga Scholars and one Ashinaga Graduate attending the African Diaspora Investment Symposium (ADIS26) at Santa Clara University! Each Scholar presented their Ashinaga Proposal research projects and volunteered with the ADN team, building on their academic and professional development skills to the theme of ADIS26, “Bridging Africa & Silicon Valley: Shaping the Future of Innovation, Investment, and Inclusive Growth”. Read their reflections on the impact of this inspiring symposium!
Darina (Cameroon)
"Bridging the Digital Divide: Equipping Rural Youth in Cameroon with Skills and Mentorship"
University of Richmond: Computer Science; Mathematics; Entrepreneurship
ADIS26 was a highly impactful experience that allowed me to engage with inspiring leaders, contribute as a volunteer, and gain valuable insights into development efforts across Africa. I especially appreciated the opportunity to meet professionals and mentors who are open to supporting my personal and professional growth. My role as a timekeeper helped me develop coordination and organizational skills in a dynamic environment. I learned that there is significant, ongoing progress across the continent, although broader representation is still needed. Overall, the experience strengthened my confidence in my Ashinaga proposal and my ability to contribute meaningfully in the future.
Kebede (Ethiopia)
"LeadReg Tech Company: Using AI to Improve Financial Compliance and Transparency in Ethiopia's Growing Digital Financial System"
Colgate University: Computer Science; Economics
My experience at ADIS was highly rewarding, with many opportunities to learn, network, and grow. I connected with professionals and fellow scholars who share similar interests and goals. The event went well overall, especially the panels and networking sessions. I learned the importance of building meaningful connections and confidently sharing my ideas. ADIS has provided me with valuable insights and relationships that will support my future academic and professional journey.
Francoise (Rwanda)
"Breaking Menstrual Barriers: Improving Health Access in Rural Rwanda"
University of Miami: Microbiology & Immunology; Public Health
ADIS26 was a rewarding experience that created a welcoming space to connect with Afro-centered individuals and build meaningful relationships. The supportive environment made it easy to engage with others and step outside my comfort zone. I had the opportunity to connect with professionals such as Michael Moscherosch, Matt Madison, Menghis Bairu, and Josh Ghaim at ADIS26. One of my biggest takeaways was learning the importance of networking and actively initiating conversations, which made the experience both impactful and memorable.
Christopher Fonye (Cameroon)
"From Skills to Leadership: A Youth Empowerment Pilot for Opportunity and Community Stability in Yaounde, Cameroon"
Bucknell University: Civil Engineering
My ADIS26 experience was very positive and rewarding. I enjoyed serving as a volunteer with the media team, where I helped with guest interviews and had the opportunity to work alongside inspiring people. I also made meaningful connections, including two UC Berkeley Master’s students and the Executive Director of Kosmos Innovation Centre. One of the biggest highlights for me was the interest shown in my Skills-to-Leadership project. Overall, ADIS helped me grow my network, gain practical experience, and see new possibilities for future collaboration.
Delvin (Zimbabwe)
"Smart Gas Scale: Real Time LPG Gas Monitoring for Homes and Businesses"
Ashinaga Graduate, Union College
UC Berkeley (Mastercard Foundation Scholar): MS Information Management and Systems
Attending ADIS was a highly engaging and insightful experience that provided strong networking opportunities, particularly through coffee chats and the Whova app. I connected with venture capitalists, startup advisors, and funders, and have already followed up with several of them through LinkedIn. One of the most valuable outcomes was identifying a potential mentor for my project and beginning that relationship. A key lesson from the symposium was the importance of actively investing in Africa’s future rather than waiting for external solutions. Overall, the experience reinforced the value of proactive engagement, bold thinking, and building meaningful professional relationships.