On Wednesday 23 October 2013, the PfAL cohort received a special visit from Firoz Lalji as they were adjusting to life in London and at LSE.  Their workload was demanding, but lectures and readings were deepening their knowledge and understanding about development issues at a rapid pace.  Only a few weeks into the first term, they were ready to share with Lalji how the program was already empowering them to become stronger, more effective leaders

Gathering in the Harvard Lecture Theatre of LSE’s 32 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, the PfAL cohort was introduced to Lalji in a relaxed yet fired up atmosphere. Each student talked briefly (but passionately) about their background as well as how the program will develop and strengthen their skills.

At the end of the introductions, one thing was clear: They were all there to one day become driving forces of change in their communities – for some, their countries – and PfAL offered them the unique opportunity to become better equipped and more able to define the root issues facing their nations, address the problems and execute solutions.

A casual reception in the Bean Counter Café followed, where other guests such as PfAL alumnus Aaron Kirunda, Syerramia Willoughby (Editor of Africa at LSE blog) and students organizing the LSE Africa Summit met and mingled with the cohort.  The group was so wrapped up in their conversations that they stayed for nearly an hour longer than the event was originally scheduled before parting ways for the night.

PfAL group and Lalji
PfAL cohort with Professor Teddy Brett (second from the left), Professor Tim Allen (back row around the middle), Ursula van Almsick (second from the right) and Firoz Lalji (front row, middle).