The success and warm reception of the inaugural Yale Africa Innovation Symposium inspired me and my committee to take YAIS II to the next level. It was an honor and privilege to host speakers from across the continent and the Diaspora, along with participants from around and beyond America’s borders. The legacy of YAIS II carries on through the friendships formed, partnerships established, and professional opportunities seized by those who attended.

With the momentum of the first two editions underfoot, it was easy to mentally prepare myself to continue as Executive Director for YAIS III during my final semester as a Yale student. However, as much as it has been a pleasure to lead, it is even more of an honor to step down and pass the torch to outstanding, passionate leaders. Everyone has a role to play, and stepping into the YAIS student advisor position has enabled me to invest into my team as they continue to build a platform that aims to center and amplify African development.

It’s been a privilege to witness the new team work endless nights to put together this special event. We desire to reach more participants and deliver a higher quality experience to all who wish to engage. Moreover, the YAIS III Committee wants to emphasize the Symposium as a platform for brilliant minds to connect and redefine the nature of problem-solving in the African context. YAIS III portrays the bubbling curiosity of Africa’s youth concerning how they can contribute towards the continent’s expanding markets.

My deepest gratitude goes to our sponsors, partners, speakers, participants, and previous and current YAIS Committee members. Together, we are paving the way for our generation to contribute to the ongoing transformation of Africa.