Almaz Negash, founder, and executive director of the African Diaspora Network (ADN), has been appointed to the President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement (PAC-ADE) by President Joe Biden.
The Silicon Valley-based ADN has played a pivotal role in uplifting and supporting businesspersons, entrepreneurs, and innovators of African descent both in the U.S. and across the African continent.
Negash, hailing from Eritrea and now residing in the Bay Area, envisions PAC-ADE as a bridge between the U.S. and African countries.
“This is critical in reinforcing relationships and our democratic principles,” Negash was quoted in a report. “I am also excited that the council will be a way to reintroduce the U.S. to the continent.”
According to her, the potential for Africans in the diaspora to contribute significantly, echoing the work ADN has done, fostering discussions on entrepreneurship, investment, and collaboration.
Having a background in international business, Negash aims to address challenges faced by Black entrepreneurs in both the U.S. and Africa.
Access to funding and knowledge-sharing are central to her goals, with a focus on policy changes that can enable the thriving of Black entrepreneurs.
PAC-ADE, with 12 inaugural members serving until 2025, represents a diverse group from Black and African communities, spanning academia, business, creative industries, faith-based activities, government, sports, and social work.
The council, chaired by Silvester Scott Beaman, includes notable figures like Ugandan-born Ham K. Serunjogi, the co-founder, and CEO of Chipper Cash, and Viola Davis, the renowned actress, artist, activist, and producer.
The council, meeting in person three times a year, aims to strengthen dialogue between the U.S. government and the African Diaspora.
Vice President Kamala Harris, during the swearing-in ceremony, touched on the council’s role in reinforcing relationships, promoting democratic principles, and reintroducing the U.S. to the continent of Africa, with its abundant natural resources and a youthful population projected to grow significantly by 2030.
