Starting on Friday, 30 May, 2014, African Leadership Academy (ALA) began hosting a unique showcase of 21 South African Icons whose lives and achievements inspire others to maximize their potential for the benefit of our world. The Icons were selected in recognition of their impact, influence, integrity and inspiration. An Icon is defined as an individual who has excelled in his or her chosen profession and whose actions have catalysed positive change, the creation of some kind of lasting goodness within their community and within the miracle nation. The Icons have created impact through advancing positive transformation. They are influencers who have shaped perceptions and behaviours. With utmost integrity, they have inspired others into personal upliftment and greater achievement.
Through film, photography and narrative, 21 Icons celebrates individuals whose lives have bettered the world around them. Based on the belief that together we are better, the project showcases the power of collective effort. In collaboration with artist Adrian Steirn and his team, ALA is bringing this collection of short films, portraits, and essays to campus.
Over the course of 21 days leading up to ALA’s Graduation Ceremonies, ALA will feature one of the Icons. Drawing inspiration from the showcase, members of the ALA community will be challenged to consider who is their African icon and prepare a reflection to be shared with the community as part of the 2014 Graduation Ceremonies at ALA. The 21-day campaign will culminate in a day of celebration on Thursday, 19 June, 2014 tagged “Celebrating Icons”.
We hope that the showcase will inspire young leaders across Africa to reflect on the development journey of the continent and further commit themselves to be agents of change for the future.
