Welcome to our 2021-2022 Annual Report. This report briefly highlights the impact Princeton in Africa has had through our programs and initiatives online and in person in Africa and the United States over the past year.
The world is undergoing a significant change that we haven’t seen in centuries. From health crises, economic crises, and threatened peace and security to failing systems and institutions. In a season where we all struggled to find hope, our partners on the African continent, Princeton in Africa Fellows, and our staff and board were a source of encouragement in their tireless commitment to change on the African continent.
Even in the face of these obstacles, We had much to learn from our partner countries and institutions in Africa, how they navigated health crises, conflicts, and systems. Our Princeton in Africa Fellows were privileged to interact firsthand with global ideas, perspectives, knowledge, and problem-solving and were frontline changemakers, advocates, and experts in supporting these systems.
This year’s annual impact report provides an overview of Princeton in Africa’s programs and initiatives to enable our Fellows, through their work, to make significant contributions to Africa’s well-being and encourage our Fellows to cultivate meaningful relationships with African communities.
Damilola Akinyele Executive Director, Princeton in Africa
In 1999, a group of Princeton alumni, faculty, and staff launched Princeton in Africa as an independent affiliate of Princeton University inspired by the University’s informal motto, “Princeton in the Nation’s Service and in the Service of All Nations.” In 2010, the program opened up to include graduates of any US accredited university in order to meet the growing demand from host organizations and allow more young professionals access to the unique opportunities afforded by PiAf. During the past 20 years, we have placed over 600 Fellows with more than 100 organizations in 36 countries, while developing more strategic partnerships across Africa and creating more opportunities for our alumni community to engage with the continent and with one another.
Testimonials
The International Rescue Committee has been so fortunate to have had a longstanding relationship with Princeton in Africa since our very first Fellows landed in Rwanda in 1999. Whether it was Emily or Renee in 1999 or the 110 Fellows across 14 IRC countries over the years, we have been blessed by the relationship, the quality of the Fellows and the impact on what IRC does on the ground every single day.
Brian Johnson
Chief Human Resources Officer
International Rescue Committee
My fellowship has been the most impactful personal and professional development opportunity of my life. I wanted a post-college experience that would push my limits, expand my comfort zone, and help me discern the next steps in my career journey. And this has been the case.
Ryan Elliott
2014-15 Fellow
Baylor Pediatric AIDS Initiative in Lesotho
I can honestly say that this year has changed my life and my view of what’s possible for the future. Princeton in Africa isn’t just a one-year fellowship, it’s an introduction to a particular way of life and a new way of thinking about the world. I feel like so many doors are open now that I never would have considered before.
Katie Fackler
2010-11 Fellow
UN World Food Programme
My Princeton in Africa fellowship was everything I could have hoped for and much more. The myriad of experiences makes my head swim, and it has strengthened my desire to help underserved populations worldwide.
David Bartels
2006-2007 Fellow
Baylor Pediatric AIDS Initiative
Princeton in Africa was an invaluable experience for me. I learned an infinite amount through my work and through living in Uganda. I also realized that I want to continue working on African issues as long as I can.
Alexis Okeowo
2006-2007 Fellow
The New Vision
The International Rescue Committee’s experience with Princeton in Africa has been exceptional. Each Fellow brings excellent writing and analytical skills as well as unique interests and passions that enrich the program and the field office environment. We were so pleased we expanded the program to more field offices.
Susan Riehl
Human Resources, IRC
The Bristol-Myers Squibb Foundation has been working in Africa for over 11 years through its Secure the Future program. One common theme in all aspects of program implementation is having passionate, energetic individuals on the ground who can think outside the box and then transfer the skills for sustainability. The Princeton In Africa Fellows have been a huge asset in this regard and our programs and patients have been better for it.