Lesley Williams, CEO of Tshimologong Precinct, Johannesburg’s leading digital innovation hub, has been selected as a member of the inaugural class of the Obama Foundation Leaders: Africa programme
Commenting on the selection, Williams said, “Through Tshimologong Precinct and other initiatives, South Africa has made impressive progress to not only improve our country but to build much-needed skills. I am excited to form part of this working group and committed to help make Africa better for all.”
Over the course of 2017, Obama met with emerging leaders around the globe to better understand how the Obama Foundation can support their work. In an effort to support and develop the next generation of leaders in Africa, Obama Foundation Leaders: Africa was formed. It is a year-long initiative to inspire, empower and connect 200 emerging leaders from across Africa to take on the biggest challenges in their communities, countries and continent.
Williams was appointed as part of the Obama Foundation’s commitment to growing its global network of innovative and ethical change makers who seek to drive transformation in their communities. This programme will provide emerging African leaders from a range of backgrounds with the skills they need to create change. Through plenary sessions, problem-solving workshops, technical training and leadership development, this working group will focus on finding ways to create and solve African-specific issues.
Williams says that the Group will kick off with a five-day workshop convening in Johannesburg. The convening will also include a town hall meeting with Obama where he will learn about their experiences and the work Africa is doing.
Williams hopes that this appointment will enable her to continue making Tshimologong Precinct a place of new beginnings for all, driving digital innovation across the continent.
