Leading With Purpose: Action in Africa Board Establishes Bold Vision for the Future

Last weekend in Aspen, our Action in Africa Board of Directors gathered to mark a pivotal moment in the organization’s 18-year journey.

With the addition of three new Board members—Keri Angeles Pari, Scott McLellan, and Maame Afon Yelbert-Sai, we’ve entered a new chapter shaped by momentum, bold thinking, and a shared commitment to service.

While a few members couldn’t attend in person, newly elected board members Keri and Scott joined the retreat, quickly immersing themselves in the collaborative energy that defines AIA. Their fresh perspectives and diverse experiences enriched discussions and challenged us to reimagine what’s possible.

At the heart of our time together was one clear focus: the future. With a multi-million dollar capital campaign on the horizon and expansion opportunities for The Center in Uganda taking shape, the stakes—and the possibilities—have never been higher.

The Board was asked to think beyond tradition.

To challenge long-standing practices.

To approach fundraising and service with renewed creativity.

And most importantly, to lead with a mindset of: how can I be of use?

Thoughtful, metaphorical “whiteboard sessions” took place around dinner tables and during casual conversations, especially at Friday night’s welcome dinner at Meat & Cheese Restaurant and the Taste of Africa fundraising dinner at Mawa’s Kitchen.

These moments sparked ideas, forged deeper connections, and reminded us why this work matters.

This Board represents more than governance.

It represents a movement.

One grounded in community, driven by empathy, and unwavering in our belief that access to opportunity should never be limited by geography.

And they’re just getting started.