Adel Testimonials

The ADEL Program provided a rare space where reflection met responsibility. It encouraged me to think beyond technical expertise and engage more deeply with leadership, power, and systems, particularly from an African and Global South perspective.

The ADEL Program was both a reset and a catalyst for me. In one of the busiest weeks of the year, it provided me with space to step back from the day-to-day and think more intentionally about leadership and impact. The futures-thinking workshops were especially valuable. They helped me widen my scope of thinking and get comfortable with uncertainty.

The ADEL Program was a great opportunity to network with peers from around the world, learn, and exchange ideas on common interests and challenges. The cohort's diversity fostered passionate discussions and underscored the need to create more spaces for policy experts from diverse backgrounds to engage with one another and cultivate strategic empathy. I love debating, and the ADEL program delivered!

The Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders Program was an intense and deeply enriching experience, both personally and professionally. More than a program, it was a space for demanding conversations, shared learning, and genuine connection.

ADEL was an extremely meaningful and transformative experience for me. It challenged the way I see myself as both a leader and a person, pushing me to question long-held assumptions and grow in ways I did not expect. One of the most powerful aspects of the program was learning how to think the unthinkable and look toward the future in a context of accelerated change and global crises affecting every continent.

I was looking for a condensed leadership development experience that could fit into a short period of time (and be feasible alongside my tight work schedule) when I found out about ADEL: a program born in the Global South. But it delivered much more than that.

It has been a transformative experience for me, broadening my perspective in ways I hadn't anticipated. The opportunity to engage with a diverse group, each bringing their unique backgrounds and viewpoints, was incredibly enriching. The program's collaborative environment fostered a unique learning experience and made me realise how powerful collaboration can be when it comes to shaping a better future.

As far as I am concerned, it meant genuine connection. Pure, stimulating, and great personality match and clash, which led to extremely interesting conversations.

It allowed me to explore part of me that I didn't know ever existed and reinforced my identity and allowed me to talk about subjects I don’t always conform to but truly enjoy.

From start to finish, the ADEL Program immerses participants in a stimulating and supportive environment. Thanks to the team’s thoughtful design, flawless organization, and genuinely welcoming spirit, it creates a space combining deep professional learning with personal enrichment.

ADEL was a much-needed reset. In an increasingly polarized world, it reminded me of the enduring positives of the global order, clarified my own role and responsibility within it, and reaffirmed what becomes possible when people engage with ideas openly, honestly, and with a genuine commitment to solutions.

The strength of the ADEL Program is the richness of its participants, constituting young leaders not only from many countries but also from diverse professional backgrounds across government, the private sector, non-profits, think tanks, and academia. Bringing this dynamic group together and into proximity with high-level thought leaders during the Atlantic Dialogues generated inspiring discussions on the cutting edge of international issues, peering into the future.

The ADEL Program has been one of a kind. For me, it meant HOPE. Reflecting on the experience reminds me of Aristotle’s words: Hope is a waking dream.

The program has had a tremendous impact on both my career aspirations and my understanding of the world we live in. It is exactly the kind of program I needed to see how connected we are globally, and in many ways facing similar challenges, just in different contexts.

The ADEL Program effectively bridged the gap between my work as an investor and the shifting landscape of global policy. It was a transformative experience to engage with both established and emerging leaders on the role of the Global South in the new global order. Through critical discussions across a range of core policy themes, I gained deeper insights and built a global network of colleagues at the forefront of policy.

The ADEL Program was a truly transformative experience for me. It offered much more than high-level discussions; it created a space for genuine connection, critical thinking, and shared purpose among leaders from across the Atlantic.

For 2025, I was searching for an interdisciplinary global community of professionals who were passionate about building bridges across regions and sectors. Being part of the 2025 ADEL Program exceeded my wildest dreams, this is hands-down the best professional development program I have ever participated in.

The ADEL Program was a great opportunity for me to step outside my DC bubble, learn from, and share ideas with inspiring thinkers and changemakers from 27 nations. It allowed me to expand my knowledge, grow professionally, and form genuine human connections in a deeply fractured world.

“The ADEL program created an engaging and welcoming space, in which open dialogue on key issues facing the Global South was able to be discussed without fear of censorship. I had a wonderful time meeting and bonding with the other participants—which, considering I am typically a bit of a silent participant in these programs, is really saying something.

"The Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders program is a valuable platform that brings together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from various nationalities to discuss the complexities of public policy shaping and the evolving dynamics of transatlantic diplomacy. The events facilitated an insightful exchange of ideas on how Western and developing nations can collaborate to create inclusive and effective policy frameworks.

"The Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders Programme was a great reminder that real problem-solving happens when different perspectives come together. Sitting with people from development economics, technology, and climate policy—each from different parts of the world—made it clear that no single field has all the answers. The real value lies in connecting ideas across disciplines.

''My ADEL experience was a wonderful experience.

“The Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders (ADEL) program was a transformative experience that exceeded all expectations. The program’s passion—for connection, for dialogue, for knowledge, and for progress—is contagious, and I hope it never loses that spark. 

"The Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders (ADEL) program was an incredible space to meet and exchange ideas with accomplished professionals and bright minds from all over the world. The chance to connect with people who bring such diverse perspectives and expertise made the experience deeply enriching, reinforcing the value of meaningful networks. These aren’t just professional contacts; they’re spaces where ideas circulate, evolve, and sometimes even turn into concrete action. 

"Participating in ADEL gave me a priceless understanding of the development of strong teams and purpose-driven leadership. The keynote lecture on "Unlocking the Potential of Tomorrow's Leaders," motivated me to approach my job and everyday interactions with a fresh sense of purpose and commitment to making a difference. Along with being fascinating, the trip to Rabat's historical spots and nature double-reminded me of the need to appreciate many civilizations in our globalized society.

"The Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders Program provided me with a unique experience to engage with diverse perspectives from across the Atlantic region. This was a remarkable experience, as the program deepened my understanding of regional cooperation while also expanding my professional network. From early mornings to night owl sessions, there were always intense encounters and reflections on our global future.

“Getting together with 40 people, who are strangers at first, each with different personal experiences, professional backgrounds, and perspectives…and the dynamic works; it is surprisingly natural and self-evident. We laugh together, we open up, and we share our stories, as if we have known each other not just for 1 or 2 days, but for months or years. 

"Being part of the 2024 ADEL cohort was a life-changing experience for me. I was both inspired and challenged by the ideas and energy of the fellow emerging leaders from across the Atlantic. This was my first time engaging at this level with individuals beyond the African continent. It truly dawned on me how many strategic opportunities for collaboration exist on the international front.

“Honored to be selected as one of 40 global changemakers for this year’s Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders Program in Rabat, Morocco. 

Out of 1,300 applicants, I had the privilege of joining an incredible cohort of inspiring peers for workshops, roundtables, and a three-day conference tackling North-South cooperation in an increasingly fragmented global landscape. 

“My ADEL selection was a welcome surprise that brought me to an incredible community of young technology, development, and policy professionals working on bettering governance in the new South. My experience scaling real-world solutions with cutting-edge technology was welcomed into the discussions which reflected a diversity of perspectives from across the globe.

"The Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders (ADEL) program was more than a conference—it was a transformative experience. It reinforced the power of cross-continental dialogue, deepened my understanding of global dynamics, and connected me with an extraordinary network of changemakers. Engaging with policymakers, business leaders, and fellow emerging voices broadened my perspective on Africa’s place in the Atlantic space and sharpened my strategic thinking.

"The ADEL program was an incredibly enriching experience, not just for the valuable insights gained from panels, sessions, and workshops, but for the deep sense of community it fostered. More than just a network, ADEL feels like a family—one that transcends borders and unites inspiring individuals from across the Atlantic Basin. 

"A serendipitous experience aptly describes the Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders Program. An opportunity that immerses participants in well-structured, thought-provoking sessions led by facilitators, followed by dynamic debates. These discussions encourage active involvement in shaping policies and decisions at regional and global levels, driving innovation, and addressing future challenges across various fields.

"The Emerging Leaders program provided an exceptional opportunity to connect with young leaders from across the Atlantic and engage in thought-provoking leadership workshops. The highlight was participating in the Atlantic Dialogues conference, where we debated critical geopolitical issues facing the Atlantic region alongside policymakers, business, and academic leaders.

"The ADEL program was one of the best programs I had the opportunity to participate in. Being around an incredible group of leaders from different parts of the world, with such impressive knowledge, experience, and backgrounds, was truly inspiring. I was particularly amazed by how passionate everyone was about their work and the impact they are creating.

"The ADEL 2024 program was an incredible experience. It was an intense week packed with innovative and insightful workshops, panel discussions, and plenty of space for interaction. Not only did I meet amazing people with whom I will surely stay in touch, but it was also very refreshing and inspiring to spend a full week discussing solutions to global issues.

“The ADEL program has been transformative for me, both personally and professionally. It introduced me to a global network of incredibly talented and passionate emerging leaders, and it’s already allowed me to start collaborating on exciting initiatives—even though it’s only been just over a month since I joined! I feel like this is just the beginning, and there is so much more to come. 

The experience in ADEL 2023, made me realise how global perspective in decision, design and thinking and networking and collaboration can be achieved especially global south. It also expounded a lot on emerging technologies like AI and its impact in my career field. I would greatly recommend the ADEL program to any young person you will challenged, inspired and engaged.

Earlier last year, I was asked the question: “Can you provide an example of a South-South cooperation.” While I had some examples in mind, they were limited compared to South-North cooperation.

Uncomfortable. That one word sums up my experience at the ADEL 2023 program. Every aspect of the program pushed me to my limits, inspiring me to be more...to do more. For an entire week, I was completely out of my comfort zone, immersed in a whirlwind of rigorous debates, thought-provoking workshops, and real-world simulations that challenged my understanding of security and policy issues across the Atlantic basin and the north-south divide. The diversity of perspectives was enlightening.

Being part of the 2023 Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders (ADEL) program was a career highlight, exemplifying excellence in global think-tank initiatives. ADEL's commitment to fostering diverse, intergenerational dialogues enriched my perspective and underscored the power of connections in addressing global challenges.

Trying to highlight only one aspect about the great ADEL experience is not an easy task. However, we chose to emphasize not the professional realm, but the fostering of people-to-people relations. One of the most important results of the experience – apart from the enriching discussions – was to get to know each other and start a profound friendship.

The ADEL 2022 program was truly an incredible experience. An intense but good environment to foster a strong bond amongst the fellows. There were insightful panel discussions across peace & security, industry 4.0, climate change, food security, as well as valuable interactions with ADEL alumni as a segway into the main Atlantic dialogues conference with leaders from across the Atlantic region.

It was a privilege to take part in the 2022 Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders (ADEL) program, and by extension, welcomed to the Atlantic Dialogues conference. 

The Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders (ADEL) program was an amazing experience for me. The program is an intergenerational dialogue between the current leaders and the emerging leaders. The workshops in the program, bonding activities with other ADELs who came from 21 other countries, networking with ambassadors, generals, former presidents and prime ministers was a one-of-a-kind experience for me.

You enter as an ordinary professional, but leave an extraordinary one! This is how I summarise the ADEL program combined with the Atlantic Dialogues conference.

I facilitate social dialogue between government, business, civil society and labour on socio-economic policy and legislation. The design thinking workshop delivered at the ADEL program has made me view social dialogue and policy formulation in an enhanced manner in that I always have the user in mind and apply the methods that we were taught on design thinking.

"It is impossible to attend the Atlantic Dialogue Emerging Leaders (ADEL) program and not come away a better person.

The curriculum during the program helped advance my professional standing and afforded me the opportunity to learn about new cultures and languages. I have made relations for life in Marrakesh and look forward to reconnecting with ADEL community around the world." 

" En 2018 j'ai eu l'opportunité de faire partie de la promotion 2018 des Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders. Ce programme de qualité mis en place par Policy Center for the New South était une véritable formation intensive qui m'a permis de bénéficier d'outils, d'acquérir de nouvelles compétences en leadership, design thinking, prise de parole en public mais aussi de novelles connaissances en matière de relations internationales. 

" L’expérience que je viens de vivre dans le cadre de ce programme Emerging Leader va constituer une source d’inspiration dans ma vie professionnelle de jeune élue locale et d’entrepreneure. C’est la toute première fois que je participe à un programme qui offre autant de thématiques et qui met en liaison des jeunes de différents horizons. "

" I was encouraged to apply to the Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders program by an Alumni who have long praised the value of the program. In addition, I was particularly keen on joining a world class  leadership program organized on the continent by an African institution; and indeed, the Policy Centre for the New South delivered with brilliance.

" Ma participation à la 8ème édition des Atlantic Dialogues Emerging leader Program (ADEL), est une expérience exceptionnelle. C’est l’exemple d’une initiative innovante, qui nous permet de faire entendre nos voix, et penser un monde meilleur ! Nous avons vécus beaucoup d’échanges et de partage entre des jeunes acteurs passionnés, et motivés pour contribuer aux changements positifs dans les différents domaines (politique, social, économiques etc…)

" Ma participation au programme Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders fût une expérience très enrichissante dans sa multiculturalité et sa diversité. Échanger avec les Emerging Leaders sur différents sujets permet de promouvoir l’innovation, l’engagement et la sensibilisation autour des problématiques sociales, économiques et politiques autour du bassin Atlantique.

" In 2018, I got to have the amazing experience of being part of the Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders 2018 Cohort . The reason the program was so amazing was because it gave me the opportunity to know what a thriving professional environment looks like for me. Oftentimes as we move along in our careers we get stuck in routine and the idea that our lives are supposed to happen on the weekend.

" The Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders program is the perfect gathering for thinkers and doers to connect and collaborate, under the sharp vision of the Policy Center for the New South. The meeting gathers high level panelists and experts from all over the world and creates a wonderful space to challenge ideas and concepts.

" In 2017, I  was among the lucky 50 young leaders selected from a pool of over 1000 applicants to take part in the 6^th edition of the Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders Program. When I traveled to Marrakesh, I met the other 49 Young Leaders who are doing incredible work in different communities from across the Atlantic basin.

" The Atlantic Dialogue was a great opportunity to challenge policymakers and highlight the fact that science, technology and innovation policies lack a gender perspective.

As such policies do not adequately and equitably address all development concerns. Inequalities between women and men in terms of access to capital, resources and government support create challenges for women entrepreneurs. "

The Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders program by the Policy Center of the New South provides an ideal platform for accomplished young professionals with a passion for policy and societal impact. Once a year PCNS gathers a new cohort of rising leaders, entrepreneurs and trailblazers from around the world to focus on new solutions for the world’s most pressing issues.

" The Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders program provided me with the unique chance to meet bright people that have the energy and passion to lead their communities towards a positive developmental path. The various networking opportunities, seminars, and panels and crisis simulation exercises vibed-up my curiosity and understanding on complementary areas of my work.

" The Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders Program (ADEL) stands as a signpost in my professional development journey due to the varied experiences I encountered. From the EL to the Atlantic Dialogues the context-rich contributions by panelist and members of the audience, served to re-educate me on the single story I knew of Africa.

" The cameras went off. The ballroom is bright-lit now. The overwhelming closing ceremony has just finished. At the bordering hall, an eleventh hour exchange of business cards is happening.

"The Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders program was an expectational opportunity for me to meet talented individuals committed to meaningful causes from all sides of the Atlantic.

In addition to the valuable conferences, Emerging Leaders get to meet an incredible professional network and make encounters that last beyond the program. It has been an unforgettable experience. "

" The participation to the Emerging Leaders Program encouraged me to articulate my own goals and vision to myself.

I now have a varied network of young professionals across the world, whom I have met with since, and I found the experience of presenting on stage with my peers in front of experts an extremely valuable learning experience."

" The Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders program stands out for its networking. The 2014 Emerging Leaders have stayed in close contact, sharing their accomplishments and opportunities for collaboration. It is an alumni group that I am confident will maintain its strength into the future. "

" The ability to debate shared 21st-century challenges with an array of emerging leaders with diverse backgrounds - representing the North and South Atlantic, developing and developed countries, and the public, private and nonprofit sectors - made the program an immensely worthwhile and valuable experience. I recommend it to everyone. "

" The Emerging Leaders experience provided me with a network of dynamic and inspiring young professionals with whom I’ve shared insights, knowledge, contacts, and encouragement.

Since last year, I’ve met with five Emerging Leaders in various parts of the world. I’ve hosted ELs in Cape Town, met up on trips to Johannesburg, and now had my move to the Cote d’Ivoire assisted by an Emerging Leader in Abidjan. "

" The Emerging Leaders Program opened my networking perspectives to new horizons. It was also a great opportunity to meet inspiring former/current presidents, ministers and leaders from the globe. "

" The Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders program enabled me to interact with young, fascinating people, facing the same challenges I face as a young change maker. Talking to them allowed for a substantial and valuable exchange of ideas and experiences on shared economic, political and social issues.

" It was a unique opportunity to meet brilliant young people from all over the transatlantic world, from different fields, all committed to a better common future. The team discussions and the presentations revealed the possibility to make things happen.

It is not every day that one gets to experience a program exposing them to unparalleled insights from world leaders, discussing hot topics and global trends with expert panels, and an opportunity to interact with like-minded young change makers motivated for good.

Les dialogues atlantiques et le programme des leaders émergents (Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders program) organisés par le Policy Center for the New South sont des initiatives africaines, portées par des africains et mises en œuvre sur le continent africain.

What an absolute honor, participating in the 2022 Policy Center for the New South's Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders program. I had the privilege of meeting 29 incredible people from across Africa, Europe, South America, and North America. Our week-long program included the thought-provoking The Atlantic Dialogues conference, which convenes influential public, nonprofit, and private sector leaders from around the Atlantic Basin for open, informal discussions on cross-regional issues.