ADIS25: A Homecoming and a Launchpad
This year, ADIS marked its tenth anniversary, an extraordinary milestone that we celebrated in Washington, D.C., with over 300 changemakers, innovators, scientists, policymakers, philanthropists, business and social entrepreneurs from across Africa, the diaspora, and global institutions. ADIS25 was not simply a conference. It was a homecoming, a launchpad, and a community reunion rolled into one.
More than any one session or speaker, what stood out was the unmistakable feeling of human connectedness, the kind that fuels deep reflection, daring ideas, and actionable collaboration. In the hallways, over shared meals, and during coffee break conversations, new partnerships formed, long-standing assumptions were challenged, and commitments to reinvest in and reimagine the future of Africa and her global diaspora took root.
This Year’s Theme: Lived, Realized, and Embodied
“Beyond Remittances: The Evolving Role of Africans in the Diaspora in Unlocking Transformational Investments” wasn’t just our theme, it was a reality embodied in every conversation and every connection. Remittances, though essential, represent only a fraction of what the diaspora has to offer. What we saw at ADIS25 was a powerful reminder that our greatest resource is each other.
We are not only sending money, we are sending knowledge , building institutions, starting companies, leading in academia, creating policy, and shaping the next generation of global leaders.
Highlights from ADIS25
- Launch of the African Diaspora Innovation Fund (AfDIF): A catalytic new vehicle to mobilize philanthropic capital and support early-stage social ventures solving real problems in Africa and the U.S.
- Barka Awardee: Celebrating and Thanking Sir Mo Ibrahim’s legacy as a visionary businessman with the very spirit of the Barka Award.
- Luminaire Awardees: Honoring six amazing individuals whose vision and leadership have advanced access, opportunity, and innovation across borders.
- Inspiring and thought-provoking sessions on topics including scientific R&D led by diaspora talent, cybersecurity, U.S.-Africa business investment, intra-Africa trade, policy engagement, sustainable investing, and entrepreneurship.
- A cultural celebration: Reminding us that investment is not only economic. It is also cultural, human, and intergenerational. Our music, art, language, and traditions are vital assets in shaping a future rooted in identity and pride.
What We Learned and What Comes Next
- Connection before transaction: Trust, belonging, and shared purpose must precede collaboration. People are more willing to build and invest together when they feel seen, heard, and valued.
- Structural readiness matters: We must continue advocating for policies and ecosystems that make it easier for the diaspora to return, contribute, and thrive in Africa. Investment is a two-way street.
- A new mindset around remittances: The diaspora must begin to think of remittances not only as survival support but as a springboard for long-term, sustainable growth. This means exploring pooled funds, angel networks, giving circles, and strategic partnerships.
A Call to Continued Action
ADIS25 was a celebration of how far we’ve come—it was a launchpad for where we’re going next. The next chapter of the African Diaspora Network is about catalyzing, activating, and transforming. It’s about turning shared knowledge, lived experience, and global networks into tangible outcomes that uplift communities and strengthen systems across Africa and the diaspora.
Here’s how you can take action:
- Support the African Diaspora Innovation Fund (AfDIF): 90% of funds raised will go directly to ADN’s accelerator programs—Builders of Africa’s Future (Africa-based) and Accelerating Business Leadership & Entrepreneurship (ABLE) (U.S.-based). Learn more about these programs here.
- Invest in ADN’s mission: Your contributions make this work possible. Donate today to help us expand our reach and deepen our impact.
- Help amplify the upcoming ABLE 2025 cohort: The 2025 ABLE application cycle is open. Apply and/or share this opportunity with your networks to help us reach the next generation of impactful entrepreneurs.
- Stay Engaged with African Diaspora Network: Be part of a growing global movement advancing African innovation, leadership, and impact. Whether you’re a changemaker, investor, entrepreneur, researcher, or ally—there’s a place for you in our community.
- Partner with us: Collaborate in building stronger ecosystems of support for African-led and African diaspora-led ventures.
- Share your story: Uplift the voices of diaspora changemakers by sharing your experiences and amplifying their work. ADIS25 attendees can take the ADIS25 Survey on Whova or share their ADIS Story.
- Become a mentor: Your time, guidance, and expertise can make a lasting difference in the life of an emerging entrepreneur.
A special thank you to our funding partners. Your belief in the power of diaspora-led innovation and inclusive investment has fueled this work from the very beginning. To our speakers, attendees, and ecosystem partners, thank you for walking alongside us, sharing your time, platforms, and helping us amplify the reach and impact of this milestone convening. And to George Washington University, thank you for hosting us. Thank you also to our vendors: Alexis Windham Group, BorderNation, and Sapodillas.
Congratulations to the ADN Board Members, the Mighty Team, and our incredible volunteers for pulling this off!
In the weeks to come, our team will share ADIS25 summary and impact report. Meanwhile, stay engaged.
Thank you
