AMARI
Co-founding AMARI with Ntsika Mzananda has been one of the most defining steps in my journey. What began as a late-night phone call between two students soon grew into a movement — one rooted in a shared belief that young Africans deserve a space to shape their continent’s ideas, policies, and future.
Together, Ntsika and I built AMARI not simply as a think tank, but as a living network of young intellectuals committed to reimagining policy, research, and public discourse through a Pan-African lens. Her vision, energy, and strategic insight were central to transforming what started as an idea into an organisation with structure, leadership, and a growing voice in the Global South.
AMARI now stands as a platform where theory meets action — where bold ideas are refined through evidence-based work, and where the next generation of African thinkers are not only participating in conversations but leading them.
International idea “Re-imagining Democracy Conference at DIRCO” where I represented AMARI.
Vision Statement of AMARI:
At its core, the African Minds for Applied Research Institute recognizes that young
Africans hold the key to the continent’s future. Through our commitment to nurturing
their potential, the institute serves as a platform for amplifying their voices and
equipping them with the necessary tools to drive meaningful policy engagement.
Through access to invaluable research and writing opportunities, young leaders will
gain the analytical skills and strategic frameworks needed to navigate policy-making.
The institute places a strong emphasis on leadership development, ensuring that
emerging thinkers and changemakers are empowered to take on critical roles in
governance, policy-making, and social innovation. By fostering an environment where
civic participation is encouraged and celebrated, young Africans will be able to engage
more actively in shaping their communities, advocating for progressive policies, and
driving sustainable development.
In addition, the institute seeks to bridge the gap between theory and practice,
ensuring that academic inquiry is not confined to university halls but is instead
translated into actionable, real-world solutions. By making research accessible to all,
the institute will dismantle barriers to knowledge and cultivate a culture of innovation
that inspires impactful projects, policies, and grassroots movements.
In doing so, we will create a generation of forward-thinking leaders who are not only equipped with knowledge but who also possess the ability to implement transformative ideas that will propel the country and continent at large towards a more prosperous state.
WHO WE ARE
Pan-Africanist and computational application research Think Tank. Applied computational analysis is the path forward. Born from a need to challenge the industry in reforming the institutionality of thought for the Global South. Policy is our nexus. My fellow Co-Founder is Ntsika Mzananda and Chairman.
As Vice Chairman of the Board, my duties:
• Supporting the Chair: Together with the Chair in providing strategic direction, guidance, and oversight to the Board of Directors.
• Governance: Ensure sound governance practices, compliance with regulations, and alignment with the institution’s mission and vision.
• Strategic Planning: Working with the Chair, CEO, and Board in shaping and reviewing strategic plans.
• Decision-Making: Facilitating informed discussions, contributing to decision-making processes, and ensuring alignment with institutional goals.
• Representation: Representing the institution externally, engaging with stakeholders, and promoting the institution’s interests.
• Accountability: Collaborating with the Chair to hold the CEO and management accountable for performance, while reinforcing transparency and accountability across the institution.
• Partnership Stewardship: Finding, monitoring and reviewing the effectiveness of partnerships and advisory collaborations to ensure alignment with strategic objectives and value creation.
Forming an Advisory Board plays a crucial role in expanding institutional reach, bringing in diverse expertise, and providing independent perspectives that enhance decision-making.
