The Morehead-Cain Foundation, renowned for its prestigious merit-based scholarship and leadership development programs, has announced its first-ever global expansion, with Nigeria as part of its inaugural cohort.
This milestone was achieved through a strategic partnership with The Afara Initiative, a leading organization focused on youth leadership development and economic empowerment.
Through this collaboration, Afara has led a rigorous selection process for the 2025 Morehead-Cain Global Fellowship Program in Nigeria, identifying and supporting the nation’s most promising young leaders. Vice Chancellors from top Nigerian universities have played a key role in nominating exceptional candidates, working closely with Afara.
“We are thrilled to partner with The Afara Initiative as we expand the Morehead-Cain Fellowship beyond the U.S.,” said Chris Bradford, President of the Morehead-Cain Foundation.
“Nigeria is home to an extraordinary pool of talented and ambitious young leaders, and we are excited to support them in developing the skills, networks, and experiences necessary to drive positive change and bring their knowledge back to their home institutions.”
As part of the selection process, Afara convened key stakeholders from university management and business sectors alongside the Morehead-Cain team at an exclusive event in Lagos.
The event brought together Vice Chancellors and Deans from leading Nigerian institutions, including the University of Lagos, Caleb University, Lead City University, Obafemi Awolowo University, the Federal University of Technology Akure, and Elizade University. Discussions focused on how this partnership could reshape leadership development in Africa, providing selected students with a 12-month experience in the United States. The program aims to equip participants with the skills, networks, and global exposure needed to drive systemic change upon their return.
“This partnership is a game-changer for Afara and young Nigerian leaders,” said Lara Rabiu, Founder of The Afara Initiative.
“Our goal is to bridge local talent with global opportunities, ensuring that Nigeria’s brightest minds gain access to the resources, networks, and leadership skills necessary to thrive internationally.”
The Morehead-Cain Program, based at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, has a rich legacy of developing exceptional leaders through fully funded educational, professional, and global learning experiences. With this expansion, the Foundation seeks to build a diverse global network of leaders who will contribute both to their home countries and the world at large.
Beyond the Morehead-Cain partnership, Afara is also launching its 2025 application cycle for its flagship programs, including the Bridge Fellowship and Pathway Career Accelerators, further strengthening leadership and career development opportunities for Nigerian students.
Rabiu added, “We believe this partnership will open doors for Nigerian students to make meaningful contributions on a global scale. We are excited to continue transforming lives and shaping future leaders through this collaboration.”
