Causes: International, International Relief, Philanthropy, Philanthropy, Voluntarism & Grantmaking Foundations

Mission: The akilah foundation is a u. S. Nonprofit entity that is exclusively organized and operated to support global education in africa. The akilah foundation currently supports the akilah institute, a women's college with campuses in east africa, and its related infrastructure, curricula, and programs. The akilah institute's unique education-to-employment model connects women to meaningful careers and prepares them to lead in the workplace and society.

Programs: In 2017, akilah institute accepted its largest class to date, which was approximately 348 students. Akilah institute serves a total of approximately 450 students at the kigali, rwanda campus for the 2017-2018 academic year. Since opening in 2010, akilah has also improved the socio-economic standing of young women in rwanda; graduates are currently earning incomes that average 12-13 times the national median in rwanda. Of these graduates, 58 percent have received at least one promotion in position and/or salary since graduating and 36 percent of them are in a supervisory role. According to recent sampled employees, 63 percent of graduates are outperforming their peers in their diverse workplaces. An akilah education also has a tangible impact on families and communities: ninety percent of graduates are supporting at least one individual or family member financially, and, on average, pay for school fees and healthcare for 1.5 and 2 people in their families. In addition, 80 percent participate in community groups. In the 2016 outcome evaluation, akilah also found that 60 percent of graduates reported the most significant change since graduation was increased respect from household members and a subsequent increase in their ability to participate in household decision-making. Most of the surveyed graduates mentioned that they are freer to share ideas without fear of judgment or disrespect. Akilah institute offers accredited diploma programs in hospitality management, business management and entrepreneurship, and information systems, which are all high-growth sectors in east africa. Akilah successfully condensed its diploma programs from three years to two, introduced a seven-week introductory bridge course to acclimate all students to the rigor of the program, and transitioned all first year courses to competency-based education. Akilah also launched the ability to participate in either day or evening and weekend courses. These changes allow students to maintain employment while they are studying if they choose, and also pursue a diploma in a shorter period of time ensuring they do not forgo valuable earning opportunities - all needs expressed by students and graduates seeking to advance their careers. Through coursework, mentorship, extracurricular activities, and community service, students develop the aforementioned soft skills that give them the power and confidence to tap into their full potential and affect positive change in their families and communities. In addition, students participate in a three-month, full-time internship with one of akilah's 220 private sector partners. The internships take place after students have completed their two years of coursework, providing them with an opportunity to apply their skills and easily transition into formal employment. To power its careers department, akilah uses mindsky, an online career platform and job board. Students also work with a talent advocate to hone their career navigation skills and search and apply for positions on the platform. Students receive a minimum of three touchpoints, or five hours of contact, with a talent advocate.