Michael Ackon, a Ghanaian student leader and aspiring diplomat, has been awarded the Most Engaged Participant in Public Policy at the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Regional Leadership Center West Africa’s 50th cohort closing ceremony, on Friday, September 6, 2024.
Michael Ackon accepts his award from Michelle Barrett, Deputy Mission Director, USAID West Africa.
Michael, who is also the Chair of YRE Ghana and a Campus Director for the Hult Prize Foundation, was recognized for his exceptional contributions in the public policy track during the three-week onsite phase of the program.
His commitment to driving positive change in his community has earned him numerous honours, including Social Media Ambassador for Global Landscapes Forum, Top 30 Most Influential Student Leaders (UPSA) and winner of the MTN Pulse Business Challenge 2022.
The YALI Golden Cohort, comprising 103 young “agri-prenuers,” from 9 West African countries focused on addressing agribusiness challenges in the region. Dr Esi Sey, the Project Director of YALI RLC, described the cohort as “passionate individuals with innovative solutions.”
Michael, in his post expressed gratitude to the YALI RLC West Africa team, USAID, facilitators, and fellow participants, emphasizing the program’s transformative impact on his leadership skills and network. “I’m committed to leveraging this experience to advance public policy initiatives benefiting Ghana and Africa,” he said.
As evidence to the program’s success, YALI has empowered over 8,000 young Africans with tools to drive change over the past decade. With his award, Michael is preparing to join a legacy of YALI alumni making meaningful impacts across Africa. His dedication to social change, leadership, and diplomacy is dignified to inspire a new generation of African leaders.
