PfAL Patron

Tsitsi Dangarembga appointed as PfAL's first patron

I am honoured to join the Programme for African Leadership at the Firoz Lalji Institute for Africa as its first Patron. This role presents an exciting opportunity to inspire and support the next generation of African leaders, particularly in the creative industries. By fostering collaboration between African and UK professionals in film and media, we can create a dynamic exchange of ideas and opportunities. I look forward to contributing to the growth and success of PfAL and its remarkable community.

Tsitsi Dangarembga, acclaimed Zimbabwean author, poet, and filmmaker, has joined the Programme for African Leadership (PfAL) as its first Patron.

PfAL is dedicated to empowering students to become a new generation of African leaders who will promote the best practices of economic and social development in their careers, communities and across the continent.

As a member of the very first cohort of PfAL, Tsitsi Dangarembga has a strong connection to the Programme and the PfAL network. Now, as the Programme’s first patron, Tsitsi will play a pivotal role in enhancing opportunities for students and alumni, promoting PfAL initiatives through her professional network, and contributing to academic, research, and leadership development.

Her distinguished literary career and commitment to social justice make her an ideal advocate for PfAL’s mission.

Lord Paul Boateng has joined the Programme for African Leadership as our second Patron.

A distinguished British lawyer, politician, and diplomat, Lord Boateng was born in London with Ghanaian and Scottish heritage. He started his career in civil rights law before becoming a trail-blazing public servant and the UK’s first Black cabinet minister. He served as British High Commissioner to South Africa between 2005 and 2009, before being elevated to the House of Lords in 2010 as Baron Boateng of Akyem in Ghana and of Wembley in London, further deepening his engagement with the African continent.

As a Patron of PfAL, Lord Boateng will lend his profound experience in governance, diplomacy, and international development to support PfAL’s mission. He will engage with students and alumni, promote the Programme’s initiatives within his global network, and help shape opportunities for African-centred leadership across all sectors. His legacy of championing equity, inclusion, and cross-continental partnership makes him an ideal ally in cultivating leadership that bridges Africa and the wider world.