Travel to Paradise and See the Future

What do a senior executive from Google, an award-winning documentary producer from the BBC and a Fulbright Scholar have in common? They all trekked to the remote Indian Ocean island of Mauritius to discover the future of learning. 

With the whole world questioning the value of higher education in the 21st century, there is one place where the university of tomorrow is already thriving — African Leadership University (ALU). The education transformation that is underway at ALU’s Mauritius and Rwanda campuses is not going unnoticed. In fact, our “missions not majors” experiential approach inspired New York Times columnist David Brooks to describe ALU as one the eight places in the world “where history is being made” and Fast Company to rank ALU one of the 50 most innovative organizations in the world.

And if you want a taste of our young problem-solving leaders in action, be sure to check out CNN’s latest episode of Innovate Africa. It features the story of how our ALU students are inventing real-world technologies that are helping African beekeepers thrive across the continent.  These aspiring entrepreneurs endeavors are not going unnoticed.

“Almost immediately, I found myself in the cradle of a vibrant and mission-driven community unlike any I’ve ever experienced,” Google’s former Vice President of Trust and Security, Tom Siegel, wrote on Linkedin after his visit to Mauritius. “What I discovered was something far bigger than a community — this is the start of a movement that is galvanizing millions of ethical and entrepreneurial leaders across the continent.”

After 15 years at Google, Tom decided it was time for a sabbatical. Last year, while contemplating his next venture, the technology executive travelled 18,000 km from his home in San Francisco to Mauritius to see ALU for himself and meet the passionate, entrepreneurial and innovative young people leading Africa’s transformation.  

Welcome to “The Residency”

 Tom is one of nearly two dozen executives, entrepreneurs and thought leaders who have served as an ALU Resident. Here is a sampling of the diverse talent The Residency has attracted so far:

• Senior Vice President of Sales, Strategy and Business Development, Adidas
• Chief Marketing Officer for Africa, Google 
• Vice President of Global Corporate Communications, Starbucks 
• World Affairs Editor, BBC 
• Director of Music Entrepreneurship, University of South Carolina  
• A world-renowned charcoal and spray drawing artist 
• Head of Operations, Standard Bank  
• Head of Energy and Environment (South Africa), United Nations Development Program 

A Vacation with Purpose

Whether you are currently employed, on sabbatical or retired, The Residency promises that window to the future you have been waiting for. 

Our students are among the world’s most brilliant and innovative minds. Rather than pursuing traditional majors, they are encouraged to pursue a “mission” related to solving the grand challenges facing Africa and the world. As you explore the beautiful paradise island of Mauritius or the majestic hills of Rwanda, you will:

Learn about the future by attending classes, solving problems alongside our team, and engaging with the future leaders who will shape this dynamic continent. Given that Africa will make up 40% of the world’s population by the end of this century, where this continent goes will determine humanity’s fate this century. 

Mentor students through one-on-one office hours. This is one of the most impactful opportunities ALU has to offer — direct connection with some of the most talented, motivated and appreciative university students in the world. They really value the perspective and advice of experienced people. Many of our students are pursuing very interesting projects and ventures that benefit immensely from expert perspectives. 

Connect with other residents from a variety of fields, including Fortune 500 Executives, award-winning artists, academics, accomplished entrepreneurs, senior public sector officials, and more.

Recharge and enjoy paradise. When you are not on campus we will help you explore Mauritius — consistently rated one of the most beautiful islands in the world which attracts 1.5 million visitors annually. Or discover Rwanda — go gorilla trekking, visit pristine rainforests, learn about the genocide, go on safari at Akagera National Park, relax at Lake Kivu, or enjoy Kigali’s night life and restaurant scene. This will likely be one of the most meaningful and memorable vacations of your life. 

Focus on your own project surrounded by highly motivated students and staff. Amidst a backdrop of stunning natural beauty, this is an environment ideal for productivity and innovation. It’s the ideal time to reflect on a major decision, write a book or rethink your business.  

Most residencies last one to two weeks. Depending on the duration of your stay, number of family or traveling companions and the length of your journey, there is a suggested donation that covers the cost of your housing, transportation and meals, while also supporting the operating costs of this non-profit university. 

 If you’re ready, we want to hear from you. This is a selective program, and you can visit the Residency website for additional details, including how to apply. If this isn’t the right time for you, we’d love for you to spread the word about this extraordinary program. 

So come take a peek over the horizon and see for yourself where history is being made.  

I hope to see you around campus.