REF: EB/NL-AA/54-04/24-25 DATE: 10th September 2024
Aspiring Achievers #4
Africa Federation is proud to announce that Asad Lilani has been appointed the global CEO of The Access Challenge Organization in New York, effective June 21, 2024. The Access Challenge is a leading advocate for global health, focusing on universal health coverage, routine vaccinations, and data-driven health approaches. Asad's appointment as the youngest CEO at The Access Challenge and one of the youngest Africans in such a prestigious role is a significant milestone for young African leaders on the international stage.
Asad has made noteworthy contributions to advancing Universal Health Coverage at the African Union and United Nations levels. He spearheaded The Access Challenge's COVID-19 response, reaching over 75 million people in Africa through the One by One vaccination campaigns in collaboration with The Africa CDC. As Director at The Access Challenge, he successfully led health campaigns across seven countries, addressing critical issues such as Universal Health Coverage, COVID-19, polio, cholera, HIV, and pandemic preparedness.
Originally from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Asad is a recent Master’s graduate from New York University (NYU) - Gallatin School of Individualized study with a Master's in Business and Human Development in Global Emerging Markets. His Master’s thesis research was based on sustainable textile manufacturing in Tanzania and the way forward. As part of his thesis deliverables, Asad created a policy proposal for Tanzania’s Textile sector and collaborated with Tanzania’s Ministry of Industry Trade and Investment, Textile Development Unit, and the esteemed Prof Benno Ndulu, former Governor of Tanzania’s Central Bank among other renowned economists, professors, and leaders.
During his time at NYU, Asad served as a graduate research assistant at NYU Africa House & Development Research Institute, where he had the privilege of working with former President of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, and ghost-writing his upcoming book, "The Journey of My Life: From Barefoot Schoolboy to President."
He also holds a Bachelor’s in Business and Engineering from Drexel University and gained valuable experience in business development and corporate strategy through his roles at Sunoco Inc., Exelon-Peco, and TE Connectivity.
Asad Ali Lilani is an alumnus of the Africa Federation Higher Education Loan Program, having received a loan for his undergraduate studies. We are pleased to highlight that Asad repaid his loan fully within the allotted time, demonstrating his dedication and responsibility, honoring his obligation – A good example for others to follow.
We convey heartiest congratulations to Asad for his determination, hard work and excellent accomplishments, we pray and look forward to his continued success, Aameen.
Below link: In this insightful podcast episode of "Chezuba Talks", a Silicon Valley based Podcast show that has viewers in over 100 countries around the world - host Tej sits down with Asad Lilani, a visionary leader from The Access Challenge, to explore the power of synergy in driving sustainable healthcare in East and Southern Africa.
Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from aspiring achievers in our community in future editions of the Aspiring Achievers Bulletin from Education Board of Africa Federation.
Students who have completed their higher education studies are requested to share their achievements and experiences with us; please contact us at: Education Board Secretariat education@africafederation.org
SECRETARIAT
AFRICA FEDERATION EDUCATION BOARD
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