Welcome from ADN

Dear Friends, Colleagues and Partners,

It is with great pride and appreciation that we welcome you to ADIS26: Bridging Africa & Silicon Valley: Shaping the Future of Innovation, Investment, and Inclusive Growth.

Over the last decade, African Diaspora Network has brought together a global community of innovators, investors, entrepreneurs, and changemakers. What began as a bold idea to convene the African diaspora has grown into a movement of shared ambition and collective action.

The world is witnessing that Africa and its diaspora are not just contributors, but central actors and participants in shaping the future across sectors such as healthcare, education, technology, entrepreneurship, and investment. The ADIS26 theme speaks to this moment of opportunity by building pathways that enable broader participation, better outcomes, and shared growth.

Our vision for ADIS26 is anchored in these five commitments, with breakout sessions designed to deepen relationships and co-create new possibilities.

Healthcare and Innovation: We believe that health is foundational to thriving communities and economies. By connecting diaspora expertise with African health systems, we can co-create resilient, inclusive models that advance well-being and innovation across the continent.
Workforce and Skills Development: Learning is the gateway to agency and impact. By linking diaspora expertise with African education and talent development, we can co-create ecosystems that equip tomorrow’s leaders.
Entrepreneurship and Diaspora-led Investment: Africa’s future is shaped by grit, creativity, and ambition. Through our network, we enable entrepreneurs to scale, investors to connect, and ideas to find backing.
Responsible AI Solutions and Partnerships: As the world adapts to the proliferation of artificial intelligence, Africa has the opportunity to leapfrog through ethical and responsible application of AI across sectors.
Capital for Impact: Fintech remains Africa’s top investment sector, transforming how millions access capital and financial services. Yet the real opportunity goes far beyond fintech, toward channeling capital into agriculture, cleantech, health, education, and other high-impact sectors that drive inclusive growth.

To our funders, board, advisors, partners, sponsors, staff, and volunteers: thank you. Your support, energy, and belief have brought us to this milestone.

To our participants and community: this is our moment. We invite you to engage, connect, dream boldly, and act intentionally.

Let us make ADIS26 a launchpad for change, community building, and collective problem-solving, a place where people and ideas connect, and where co-creation and collaboration fuel new opportunities across Africa and its global diaspora. The journey ahead is bright, and together, we will shape the next chapter.
We are looking forward to welcoming you soon,

ADN Board, Team & Advisors