Editor’s note: The two short pieces below were written by recent graduates of ALG’s Public Speaking Class Cohort 18.
Mustafa Gemeda was born in the Oromia Region of Ethiopia and immigrated to the United States in 2000, to pursue his education. Mustafa has gained diverse professional experience, including several years as a customer service representative and three years as a teacher’s assistant in Minnesota. After relocating to Denver, Colorado, he transitioned into entrepreneurship by starting his own transportation business.
Zeina Toure was born in Senegal and raised outside of Washington, D.C. Zeina relocated to Denver, Colorado, after graduating from college and has built deep community ties. She earned her Master’s of Social Work from the University of Denver and began her career working in hospital settings. Zeina later founded New Phase Navigation, a private case management and healthcare consulting company that supports adults experiencing health transitions.
Public speaking: A transformative life experience
By Mustafa Gemeda
Being part of the African Leadership Group (ALG) has been more than just participating in a leadership program—it has been a transformative life experience.
ALG is a truly diversified organization. It brings together individuals from different professional backgrounds, cultures, and life journeys, creating a powerful environment where ideas, perspectives, and experiences intersect. This diversity is not only inspiring but deeply enriching. It allows us to grow beyond our own limitations and see leadership through a broader, more inclusive lens.
What stands out most to me, however, is that ALG is more than an organization—it is a family. The bonds built here go beyond networking or professional collaboration. We form strong family ties rooted in trust, encouragement, and shared ambition. The sense of belonging creates a safe space where we can challenge ourselves, support one another, and celebrate each other’s progress.
The Public Speaking Class has inspired many lives, including mine. Through the sessions, mentorship, and peer interactions, I have rediscovered the power of intentional leadership and continuous learning. ALG encourages us to reflect deeply, act boldly, and lead responsibly in our communities and businesses.
One of the most impactful initiatives is the offering of free classes, such as Public Speaking Class Cohort 18. These opportunities make leadership development accessible to those who want to recapture and strengthen their business mindset. It reflects ALG’s genuine commitment to empowering individuals—not just those who can afford it, but anyone who is ready to grow.
For me, ALG has reignited my passion for growth, sharpened my business thinking, and strengthened my belief in the power of community. I am grateful to be part of a movement that is not only shaping leaders but building a lasting legacy of collaboration, empowerment, and impact across Africa and beyond.
Public speaking class: A journey in self-development
By Zeina Toure
There aren’t enough words to describe the impact of ALG’s public speaking class. From the moment I walked in, I sensed that the next 12 weeks would be transformative — and they truly were. The professor (Madiama) and facilitators (Tee, Uzi) create an environment that is empowering, supportive, nurturing, and honest all at once.
This class is far more than a public speaking course; it feels like a journey in self-development. You leave with practical tools and skills that build confidence and presence. The professor challenges you in a way that reflects genuine care, and every participant is given the opportunity to shine.
Personally, ALG’s public speaking class reconnected me with parts of myself I had lost touch with while introducing me to new strengths I didn’t know I had. I highly recommend this class to anyone looking to grow professionally or personally. It’s also an incredible way to build meaningful friendships. I found myself inspired by every new person I met.
