Papa Dia’s story & The formation of African Leadership Group (ALG)
When I had an opportunity to come to the United States in 1998, I had one goal in mind; work and send money back to support the rest of my family in Senegal, West Africa. As 1 of 13 children, my family struggled to make ends meet; I was determined to do everything I could, to change the narrative. Like many immigrants, I was faced with some challenges. Back in Senegal, I studied law; however, I couldn’t continue on this path due to my limited English-speaking skills. I got a job at the Tattered Cover Bookstore and found myself studying all over again. My exposure to books and immersion in the world of literacy helped with my reading, writing, and speaking skills.
After leaving the Tattered Cover Bookstore, I got a job as a bank teller, where I worked for the next 18 years. During my time at the bank, I learned about financial resources that were not readily accessible to the immigrant community, though they were necessary for successful integration. Information about government assistance was readily available, but nothing existed to help us achieve the American dream. During my time at the bank, I was approached by a lot of African Immigrants who had questions not only about banking but also about other challenges (education, legal, etc.) they faced in trying to integrate into the American culture. I would help them out the best I could, but this attracted dozens to the bank each week. When the bank started to express concern, I knew it was time for me to create an outlet that will continue to help people outside of my workplace because as I looked around, there were no other entities/organizations that focused on helping skilled immigrants integrate. In 2006, the African Leadership Group was formed to facilitate the professional integration of African immigrants.
How we got started
Since its inception, ALG has organized multiple community events, engagements, and discussions with programs focused on key issues, such as education, career and job opportunities, Business Development, Immigration, Political and Community involvement, and many other activities regularly reaching thousands of individuals in the local community.
ALG advocates for the entire African Immigrant Community – across national origin, tribes, and language – to ensure continuous improvement to immigrants’ quality of life.
Core Values
Our Core Values Commitment is the foundation of all that we do. ALG upholds the following core values
Transformation
We believe in urgent action, innovation, and the necessity of transformation—within the community we serve.
Diversity
We know that by embracing differences, actively including a variety of voices, and joining together we can solve the world’s most complex problems.
Equality
We believe in the equal value of every human being and the importance of respecting and honoring each individual; we know that change happens through people.
Integrity
We are accountable to the people and partners we humbly serve, transparently sharing our results, stories and lessons.
Excellence
We challenge ourselves to the highest level of learning and performance, tapping the best of the human spirit to create impact.
ALG Mission
African Leadership Group’s mission is to help the African diaspora integrate and prosper by connecting cultures, developing strong community leaders, and advocating for economic, social and educational impact.
ALG Vision
To advocate for the entire African immigrant community across national origin, tribes, and language to ensure continuous improvements to immigrants’ quality of life.