2023 Cambridge Africa Together Conference - Report

Conference Report

2023

Cambridge Africa Together Conference

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY CELEBRATING DIVERSITY AND SHAPING OUR FUTURE: CATC 23 WAS A BEACON OF AFRICAN EXCELLENCE NATHAN ODIASE 2022/2023 - PRESIDENT

The Cambridge Africa Together Conference 2023 (CATC 23) marked a historic milestone as the inaugural threeday conference. It transcended boundaries and delved into insightful panels on African Culture and Creative Arts, Governance and Diplomacy, and Women in Business.

This report not only encapsulates the essence of this historic event but also serves as a cornerstone for the consolidation of the legacy. It reflects the remarkable bonds of an outstanding team and fosters global connections.

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This report serves as a foundational document that is pivotal in shaping the trajectory for future conferences, ensuring continuity, and promoting a sustained impact on African discourse, innovation, and collaboration in the years to come.

The report delves into CATC 23's dynamic themes, encapsulating critical takeaways from sessions, insights from the organising committee, and testimonials from global delegates. It highlights the conference's impact on African culture, governance, and women in business, emphasising recommendations for future editions, celebrating a rich cultural tapestry, and exploring technological integrations that shaped the event's success.

BEHIND THE REVOLUTIONARY

CORE STRATEGY Laying the foundation for sustained impact, fostering collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement in subsequent conferences.

Their vision was implemented across four major themes.

The outstanding strategy of CATC 23 owes much to the brilliance and dedication of our strategy team: William Awomoyi, Kikiopeoluwa Ajayi, and Chantell Asante.

Their exemplary leadership and tireless efforts shaped the narrative, identified stellar speakers, and set the tone for a conference that will resonate for years.

01.

Forging Our Path

The conference embraced a vision of selfdetermination, amplifying African voices to craft narratives, shape discussions, and define solutions, fostering a sense of agency and ownership.

03.

Solution-focused Panel Sessions

Each panel session was meticulously designed to be solution-centric, encouraging actionable discussions and providing practical insights, ensuring that discourse translated into tangible strategies for progress.

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02.

Pan-Africanism

CATC 23 embodied the spirit of PanAfricanism by uniting diverse voices, transcending borders, and fostering collaboration, emphasizing a collective approach to addressing continental challenges and opportunities

04.

Proactive Future:

CATC 23 championed a diverse but unified African narrative, celebrating the richness of cultures, perspectives, and ideas. This emphasis on diversity propelled the conference beyond reflection, shaping an inclusive and vibrant vision for the future.

VISION & ORGANISATION The transformative vision of a 3-day conference was conceived by the Conference Chair, Mr Alasan Ceesay. This ambitious vision served a historic significance for a conference previously held for just a day. Mr Ceesay aimed for a borderless international conference, encapsulating the spirit of Africans in Cambridge, UK, and globally.

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The meticulous organisational backbone was led by Conference Secretary Mr Muhammad Rabiu Balarabe, who orchestrated seamless coordination, formalised team structures, and upheld the conference to the highest ethical standards. Their collaborative leadership ensured an event and a vibrant and inclusive platform, uniting Africans in a global dialogue of significance and impact."

SUPPORT

Sponsors

Gold Sponsors

General Sponsors

Partners

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CONFERENCE TEAM A dedicated and visionary team was the foundation of the success of the conference. Each member (and role) brought unique perspectives, talents, and passion to the organisational structure. Consequently, we collectively crafted an event that transcended boundaries and broke barriers.

Alasan Ceesay

Nathan Odiase

Muhammad R. Balarabe

Chair

President

Secretary

William Awomoyi

Kikiopeoluwa Ajayi

Paula-Peace Okoro

Co-Director Of Strategy

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Co-Director Of Strategy

Director of Logistics

Emmanuela Bonglack

Daisy Moraa Ong’angi

Fortune IsokaOnwordi

Co-Director of Marketing

Head of Corporate Sponsorships

Director of Communications

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CONFERENCE TEAM

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Blessings Doherty

Tanatswa Chikaura

Inioluwa Afolabi

Director of Program

Logistics Team

Director of Speaker Engagement

Enoch Alex

Myesha Jemison

Ruth Jepkemoi

Cooperate Communications

Conference Advisor

Co-Director of Marketing

Ademola Aiyenuro

Denise Ingabire

Oladimeji Shotunde

Co-Director Conference Technology

Junior Treasurer

Protocol and Special Assistant

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CONFERENCE TEAM

Chantell Asante

Boluwatife Oladele

Deusdedit Kansiime

Strategy Team

Logistics Team

Logistics Team

Chukwuebuka Obetta

Aishat Alaran

Chinedu Onubogu

Logistics Team

Co-Director Conference Technology

Logistics Team

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

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Julian Chieza

Chike Pilgrim

Africa Over Coffee Chair

Welfare Officer

CATC 23 Report

THE NETWORKING RECEPTION

CATC 23 inaugurated a historic tradition with its first-ever Networking Reception.

This evening resonated with the vibrant energy of diverse African voices converging, exchanging ideas, and forging connections.

Beyond an event, it was a reflection of the strength and unity of our global African community. It was the opening ceremony that set the stage for a conference that celebrated our African identity.

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Highlights Networking Reception was graced by the esteemed Sonita Alleyne OBE, 41st Master of Jesus College, whose commitment to diversity and inclusion resonated profoundly.

Nathan Odiase Osareme, our president, inspired us with a compelling reminder of the vast potential within our Cambridge African community.

Renowned BBC Presenter Jonelle Awomoyi, our dynamic compère, infused the event with her engaging style, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere. Blessings Doraherty, our cohost, exhibited exceptional grace, fostering spaces for meaningful conversations.

Together, they created an evening of unity, inspiration, and connection, marking the beginning of a conference that celebrated leadership, diversity, and the power of shared experiences."

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THE ACS COMPOSERS

A standout moment of the evening unfolded with the electrifying performance by the Afro-Carrebian Society (ACS) Compozers.

Hailing from the University of Cambridge, these musicians masterfully blended Afrobeats, R&B, and hip-hop, creating an immersive musical journey that transcended boundaries.

The beauty of their performance transformed the reception into a vibrant dance floor and light moment for everyone present.

The Compozers ensured that we connected authentically through shared stories, dance, and the universal language of music. The atmosphere was a genuinely befitting way to start the conference.

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KEYNOTE ADDRESS

Limoblaze Nigerian award-winning musician and singer-songwriter Limoblaze (Samuel Onwubiko) is an Afrobeats, Hip-Hop and Gospel recording artiste. One of his recent hits, “Jireh”, debuted on Billboard’s US Afrobeat song chart, peaking at #31; Billboard’s Hot Christian Songs chart, peaking at #41; and Billboard's Gospel Songs chart, peaking at #15.

Limoblaze delivered a powerful keynote address, unravelling his remarkable journey in transcending musical boundaries. From industry challenges to global acclaim, Limoblaze's narrative resonated as a testament to the resilience of the African spirit.

His words echoed trials, triumphs, and tenacity, illustrating that dreams are attainable amidst obstacles. A touching tribute to his wife, Favor Emma, celebrated supportive bonds. Limoblaze's impact on the Afrobeats landscape, crowned by his collaboration with Reach Records, stands as a reflection of his ability to ignite hope and inspire millions worldwide.

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CONFERENCE CHAIR

Social Innovation Mr Alasan Ceesay, the conference chair, articulated a visionary perspective on social innovation in Africa. Emphasising poverty alleviation, marginalisation and exclusion reduction, and sustainable progress, he highlighted the critical yet often overlooked aspect of employment.

Recognising the multifaceted role of development, Mr Ceesay underscored the necessity of formalised collaborations between civil society and private and public sectors. This nuanced exploration revealed that while many social innovations begin informally, there's a growing trend towards more structured partnerships.

CATC 23's focus on social innovation catalyses fostering meaningful connections and exploring solutions that address immediate challenges and contribute to the long-term prosperity and stability of African societies

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PANEL SESSIONS

Governance & Diplomacy The Governance and Diplomacy Panel, expertly moderated by William Awomoyi, featured distinguished voices: Bright Simons, International Political Commentator; Chido Munyati, Head of Africa at the World Economic Forum; H.E. Patsy Moustache, Acting High Commissioner-Republic of Seychelles in London, and Maudo Jallow, Economic Development Consultant.

They navigated the complexities of African governance, advocating for a redefined African Union and emphasizing the role of subject-matter experts. Bright Simons underscored the tension between symbolic and material victories and the need for a serious governance paradigm,

Maudo Jallow highlighted the need for transformative leadership, thus framing politics as an 'extractive industry.' H.E. Patsy Moustache showcased Seychelles' holistic progress through education and healthcare, innovatively leveraging the blue economy. Chido Munyati urged addressing internal issues before pursuing continental unity, questioning the external funding of the African Union.

The panel collectively championed introspection, individual nation responsibility, and unity as prerequisites for Africa's prosperous future, resonating with the transformative potential of the AfCFTA Agreement."

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PANEL SESSIONS

Culture The Culture Panel, 'The African Renaissance: Exploring the Diversity, Resilience, and Impact of African Culture and Creative Arts,' curated a profound exploration of our rich cultural heritage.

Moderated by Myesha Jemison, a UK Board Member at the Pan-African Heritage Museum, the panel navigated the realms of history, art, technology, and narrative.

Robin Walker underscored the resilience of our heritage, advocating for the preservation of historical assets. Mabintou Kolley sparked discussions on the intersection of technology and African narratives, emphasising the balance between innovation and understanding.

Yaya Sillah encouraged positive reframing of African narratives, while Tokini Peterside-Schwebig provided a fresh perspective on the complex term 'African narrative,' stressing the importance of diverse representation and self-authorship.

The dialogue left a lasting impact, emphasising that the African Renaissance is a dynamic journey of innovation, evolution, and identity preservation."

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PANEL SESSIONS

Women in Business

The groundbreaking Women in Business Panel at CATC 23, expertly moderated by Daisy Moraa Ong’angi, showcased a confluence of high-performing women in Business and entrepreneurship. Mandy Nyarko MBE highlighted the alarming gender imbalance in venture capital, emphasizing the imperative for equitable business education.

Oyinkansola Adebayo's journey with Niyo Bootcamps underscored the transformative role of tech in empowering black women entrepreneurs, shedding light on biases faced during fundraising.

Jumoke Dada, the force behind Taeillo, illuminated the uphill battle for capital faced by women, revealing gender biases in the investment world. These revelations echoed the layered challenges for female entrepreneurs while celebrating their resilience, determination, and the boundless potential of African women in business—a compelling call for change, inclusivity, and a testament to Africa’s innovation and business development prowess."

The Women in Business Panel at CATC 23 delivered profound insights and sparked a palpable desire among audience members to venture into entrepreneurship. Their comments echoed a collective aspiration for business ownership and reflected the impact of the panel's discussions on inspiring a new wave of entrepreneurial spirit. The session addressed challenges and ignited a fervour for positive change, marking a pivotal moment in fostering a new generation of African women entrepreneurs.

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PERFORMANCES

The conference was elevated by remarkable performances, beginning with the soul-stirring poetry of 19-year-old Ogor Ozor. Her poignant piece, a journey through her life as a Black African woman, resonated with messages of self-worth, empowerment, and authenticity. Ogor's performance set the tone for an empowering day, emphasizing the significance of owning one's African identity for the benefit of future generations.

The joint performance by Ade Oyejobi and Amira Campbell showcased a powerful fusion of spoken word and music. Ade's evocative verses shattered societal norms, emphasizing masculinity, empathy, and brotherly love. Amira's hauntingly beautiful violin melodies added depth, reflecting her dedication to diversifying classical music. Their collaboration, driven by a shared vision of liberation, underscored the transformative power of artistry, leaving a lasting impact and prompting reflective conversations on identity and change throughout the conference."

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FIRESIDE CHAT

NJ AJUK "The Fireside Chat at CATC 23, featuring NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, and Nathan Odiase Osareme, 2022/ 2023 President of the African Society, brought insightful perspectives on transforming the energy sector for a sustainable future.

NJ Ayuk emphasized the necessity of approaching climate change and energy issues with an authentic African lens, highlighting unique challenges and opportunities.

He underscored that global frameworks often fall short of addressing Africa's specific needs. Ayuk elaborated on entry points into the energy sector, urging impact-driven initiatives and emphasizing that true change begins at the grassroots level.

The fireside chat was a beacon of wisdom, urging not just transformation but impactful change for a sustainable and resilient African energy landscape.

FIRESIDE CHAT

Uche Orji The second Fireside Chat at CATC 23, led by Kiki Ajayi, Entrepreneur and CoDirector of Strategy, featured a masterclass in leadership and financial management with Uche Orji, former MD & CEO of Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (#NSIA).

Uche shared insights into the meticulous strategies that transformed NSIA into a globally respected institution, offering a blueprint for revolutionizing the African business landscape.

His emphasis on multi-strategy approaches and public-private partnerships became a rallying point, inspiring a resolve to adopt similar strategies for investment bodies across Africa.

The fireside chat was a beacon of wisdom, offering tangible lessons for leadership, financial acumen, and the future development of Africa's vital infrastructure."

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TEAM DYNAMICS

MARKETING & COMMS STEPPING UP OUR SOCIAL MEDIA GAME Our global outreach was a cornerstone of success, orchestrated by our dynamic marketing team led by Emmanuela Bonglack and Ruth Jepkemoi.

Leveraging the power of social media platforms, including Instagram and Facebook, they implemented innovative strategies. They utilised Instagram Live sessions, online Q&A sessions, and engaging content dissemination, which were key components that provided a virtual space for global participation.

This approach not only expanded our audience reach but fostered an inclusive dialogue that transcended geographical boundaries.

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The communication team, led by Fortune Isoka-Onwordi (Instagram and Facebook) and Encoh Alex (LinkedIn and corporate comms), played a pivotal role. Their strategic prowess ensured that our message resonated effectively across different platforms, creating a unified and impactful narrative.

In addition to social media, our conference thrived on strategic collaborations and partnerships with key stakeholders. This collaborative spirit enhanced the richness of our discussions and broadened our impact.

The Fireside Chats, masterclasses, and cultural panels provided unique insights, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the African continent.

TEAM DYNAMICS

LOGISTICS CELEBRATING OUR HEROIC FOOT SOLDIERS Under the adept leadership of Paula-Peace Okoro, the CATC 23 logistics team executed a seamless orchestration of critical elements to consolidate the physical infrastructure of the conference.

From the intricacies of venue arrangements to the finer details of speaker awards, backdrops, ushering, and hospitality, every facet was meticulously addressed.

Paula-Peace's strategic delegation and coordination were complemented by the dedication and hard work of a committed team.

As the Director of Speaker Engagements, Inioluwa Afolabi played a pivotal role in ensuring that our esteemed speakers experienced smooth and comfortable transitions. From flight arrangements to travel accommodations, Inioluwa, with her keen attention to detail, ensured that our speakers felt welcomed and supported.

The logistics team, comprised of Tanatswa Chikaura, Oladimeji Shotunde, Boluwatife Oladele, Deusdedit Kansiime, Chukwuebuka Obetta, and Aishat Alaran, were the backbone of the conference's operational success. Their dedication went beyond mere coordination; it contributed significantly to the overall atmosphere of professionalism and efficiency that defined CATC 23.

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In addition to these key individuals, the logistics team benefited from collaborations with external service providers. Most of these were provided

by Jesus College Cambridge. Security personnel, caterers, and technical support teams were seamlessly integrated into the logistics plan, ensuring that the conference ran smoothly and left a lasting impression on attendees.

This harmonious collaboration between the logistics team, volunteers, and external partners was instrumental in creating an environment conducive to impactful discussions, effective networking, and a memorable experience for all participants.

TEAM DYNAMICS

DIRECTING OUR

REMARKABLE PROGRAM The Programs Team, under the dynamic leadership of Blessings Doherty, crafted the proceedings with meticulous precision, ensuring a seamless flow of each section.

Blessings, who also served as a co-host, brought enthusiasm and dedication to her role, managing the program's timing and transitions between different phases of the conference with remarkable finesse.

Guest Host Joining Blessings in the hosting duties was the esteemed Jonelle Awomoyi, a groundbreaking figure in broadcast journalism. Jonelle's expertise added a layer of professionalism and engaging charisma to the proceedings. Her role as a co-host alongside Blessings contributed significantly to the dynamic and lively atmosphere of the conference.

Digital Infastrcture Ademola Aiyenuro, leading the charge on the Digital Infrastructure, played a crucial role in ensuring the seamless integration of technology into the conference experience.

As the head of conference technology, Ademola, in collaboration with Oladimeji Shotunde and Chinedu Onubogu, navigated the complexities of Zoom links and audiovisual needs, ensuring a technologically sound environment for both virtual and in-person participants.

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TEAM DYNAMICS

OUR AMAZING MBA TEAM THE CAMBRIDGE AFRICA BUSINESS NETWORK AND THE ART OF FUNDRAISING

DAISY MORAA ONG’ANGI

The collaboration with the MBA students from the Cambridge Judge Business School, who form an integral part of the African Business Network in Cambridge, proved to be a strategic alliance that significantly contributed to the success of CATC 23.

Daisy Moraa Ong’angi, in her capacity as the Head of Corporate Sponsorships and Partnerships, demonstrated exceptional prowess in identifying and securing operational sponsors. She played a key role in reaching out to Cambridge colleges and strengthening partnerships, broadening the financial support base for the conference. Daisy's efforts went beyond traditional fundraising, incorporating innovative approaches to engage sponsors and foster long-term partnerships.

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DENISE INGABIRE

Denise Ingabire, serving as the Junior Treasurer, played a critical role in the financial stewardship of CATC 23. Her diligence ensured meticulous fund management, accurate reporting, and adherence to the highest professional standards. Denise's commitment to financial integrity contributed to the overall transparency and success of the conference.

The excellent MBA students were instrumental in expanding the financial resources of CATC 23. We look forward to working together in the future.

The Afro-Ball a magical night

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE BALL

ingout sinignsyle

MILESTONES

150+ Over 150 students and professionals attended the conference, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and perspectives. The diverse audience enriched the discourse, ensuring multifaceted insights and a truly representative platform.

90% Our Instagram followers doubled, demonstrating a 90% growth and increased outreach. A growing Instagram community reflects heightened interest and effective communication through visual content and storytelling.

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3000+ Achieving more than 3000 engagements on LinkedIn during our marketing phase signifies broad interest and active participation. This indicates a wide-reaching impact and interest in our content, enhancing visibility and connection.

25% Facebook experienced more than a 25% increase in page growth, highlighting expanding connections and engagement. A growing Facebook presence underscores the platform's effectiveness in connecting with the alumni community and a broader audience and facilitating interaction.

MILESTONES

4 Collaboration with three cultural societies: The Afro-Carrebian Society (ACS), Cambridge University Nigerian Society (CUNS) and Cambridge University Ghanaian Society (CUGS) fostered diverse perspectives and created a vibrant platform for meaningful discussions.

We also had advisory support from Cambridge Africa, which ensured a comprehensive representation of African experiences and expertise, enhancing the exposure of the conference in the institution.

12 The exceptional organising team of the African Conference was a vibrant mosaic of 24 dedicated students hailing from 12 distinct nations. From the sunny coasts of Barbados to the vibrant landscapes of Uganda, the bustling streets of Nigeria to the expansive savannahs of Kenya, the soulful rhythms of Sierra Leone to the thunderous falls of Zimbabwe, our team truly mirrored the vastness and diversity of the globe

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Our Impact Projects AFRICA OVER COFFEE

WELFARE We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Chike Pilgrim, Welfare Officer of the African Society, whose dedicated efforts in prioritizing member welfare laid a crucial foundation for a successful conference.

His commitment ensured the well-being and comfort of all participants, contributing significantly to the overall positive experience.

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Our sincere appreciation also extends to Mr. Julian Cheiza, Africa over Coffee (AoC) Officer of the African Society. The AoC sessions provided a crucial platform for open discussions on issues affecting African students.

Mr. Cheiza's leadership fostered proactive dialogues, enabling collaborative problemsolving. His dedication significantly contributed to creating a supportive and engaged African community.

THE FUTURE CRAFTING SOLUTIONS, DELIVERING SUCCESS I am honoured to serve as the president of the African Society of Cambridge University for the academic year 2023/2024. This year holds particular significance for our community, as it marks the 10th Anniversary of the society's founding. We are eager to celebrate the remarkable achievements that have been accomplished over the past decade. During the past decade, several landmark milestones have brought our continent into the spotlight.

This society is both diverse and vibrant, acting as a symbol of African pride, culture, and knowledge on a global platform. In the coming year, we aim to build upon the exceptional work of previous leaders and foster the development of future leaders.

We look forward to increased intercultural collaborations, engagements with various institutions, and the expansion of our networking platform, all of which will promote creativity and innovation.

The society is home to great minds, minds that can transform nations, drive change, and sustain prosperity.

This year, we are privileged to continue the cultivation of such minds.

Tanatswa Chikaura President 2023/2024

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Our

Testimonials Muhammad Rabiu Balarabe It is with immense pride and gratification that I reflect upon CATC 2023 under the resonant theme, "Forging Our Path." The conference embodied the ethos of selfdetermination and empowerment. We meticulously curated an environment where African voices resonated with strength, unity, and purpose. It was a platform where diverse narratives converged, sparking robust discussions and propelling us towards crafting innovative solutions.

The dedication and commitment of our team cultivated an environment where pride and possibility thrived. This conference was not just an event; it was a milestone that empowered our community and set the stage for lasting change and progression. As a committee member, I am honoured to have been part of this movement, and I'm excited about the inspiring paths we've collectively charted for the future.

Ruth Jepkemoi I had the incredible opportunity to be part of the planning team for the conference and it was truly an inspiring experience. Working alongside such a dedicated and passionate team was nothing short of remarkable. Each team member approached the conference planning with a level of commitment that was truly commendable.

One of the highlights of the conference was the diverse audience it attracted. Personally, the conference provided me with a unique opportunity to establish long-lasting connections and collaborations. The interactions and relationships formed during the event have proven to be invaluable, both personally and professionally.

Daisy Morra Being part of the ATC Committee allowed me to see and experience Pan-Africanism in action from the students in the ASCU society, whose ideas for the conference made it as spectacular as it was, and also from the generosity of the larger African Diaspora in the University of Cambridge network who contributed with their availability and funding.

For the 2023 ATC, I was the Head of Corporate Sponsorships and Partnerships. Together with Paula James and Blessings Doherty, and we made a concerted effort to reach out to all potential sponsors and donors. Their generous contributions made the conference possible.

I was also privileged to lead the Women in Business Panel, as I was an MBA Candidate and also the President of the Business Network at the Judge Business School. With the panellists, we engaged in an illuminating conversation about entrepreneurship, funding, and venture capital in Africa.

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Enoch Alex The experience of being part of this team has had a significant impact on me personally. It has given me a greater appreciation for the complexities of crosscultural communication and the important role that digital platforms play in bridging gaps.

Additionally, it has reinforced the power of teamwork and the incredible outcomes that can be achieved when people with diverse skills and perspectives come together to work towards a common goal. The conference was not only informative about critical issues in Africa, but it also set a high standard for what can be accomplished through a coordinated effort and strategic planning.

As we document our experiences and the success of the conference, my sense of pride extends beyond our communications team to the entire conference team.

Together, we have not only contributed to an important discourse but also demonstrated the strength and potential of united efforts in shaping the future of Africa.

Oladimeji Shotunde The Cambridge Africa Together Conference (CATC) was a transformative experience for me. While actively involved in the organising team, I had the privilege of listening to and engaging with speakers whose profound insights significantly influenced my views on pressing global issues. Being part of the organising process allowed me to witness the intricate process of orchestrating a truly world-class conference. We really did a thing.

Blessings Doherty Africa Together Conference 2023 was nothing short of amazing! It has been echoed time and time again that the future of the African continent relies on the mobilisation of our youth; this conference embodied all this and more! From the mind-stimulating conversations to the exciting networking opportunities and the grand gala to finish, it was excellent from beginning to end.

Kikiopeoluwa Ajayi It was an honour to be a director of strategy for this conference, especially as an undergrad. We pulled out all the stops that we could, and I hope everybody enjoyed!

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THE CATC RESOLUTIONS

2023

INTRODUCTION TO THE INAUGURAL RESOLUTION DOCUMENT In a historic stride towards actionable change, the Cambridge African Together Conference (CATC) proudly presents its inaugural Resolution Document.

This groundbreaking compilation encapsulates the collective wisdom, passion, and commitment of our diverse community. As we tread the uncharted terrain of resolutions on transformative leadership, economic equality, and cultural integration, this document symbolizes our shared pledge to drive tangible impact in shaping a more equitable and thriving Africa.

2- Point Resolution

Strengthening Anti-Corruption Mechanisms: To foster transformative governance, African nations commit to strengthening anti-corruption mechanisms. This includes robust legal frameworks, independent judiciary systems, and empowering anti-corruption agencies. The goal is to create an environment where corrupt practices are systematically discouraged, investigated, and punished.

Grassroots-Centric Policy Formulation Embracing a grassroots-centric approach, African nations resolve to formulate policies that directly address the needs and challenges faced by local communities. This involves decentralizing decision-making processes, engaging communities in policy discussions, and tailoring solutions to the unique contexts of different regions.

CATC23 Resolutions

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MULTILATERAL RELATIONS 3 - Point Resolution

Strengthening Multilateral Institutions We advocate for granting legislative power to the Pan-African Parliament, enhancing its authority for effective governance. We also propose that the African Union (AU) secures a majority of its funding from internal African states, ensuring financial autonomy for more decisive and unbiased decision-making.

Unlocking Diasporan Potential African leadership should work toward harnessing the intellectual and financial capital of the African diaspora, integrating their perspectives in crucial decision-making processes for a comprehensive and inclusive approach.

Consolidating Continental Relations We advocate for the implementation of visa-free travel within Africa, fostering a sense of unity, cultural exchange, and collaboration among African nations. This could further extend towards the establishment of a Single Air Market to enhance air travel connectivity across the continent, facilitating economic growth and cultural exchange.

We also propose the implementation of Free Telecom Roaming to eliminate communication barriers, encourage collaboration, and create a connected African digital space.

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Cultural Integration 7-Point Resolution

Mission

Vision

Cultivate an inclusive environment that appreciates and integrates the richness of traditions, languages, and histories across the continent.

A harmonious Africa where cultural integration is celebrated as a source of strength, understanding, and solidarity.

Education Reform

Implement curricula that promote diverse cultural understanding, history, and languages.

Interconnected Events

Foster cross-border cultural events and festivals, celebrating shared heritage and promoting unity.

Media Representation

Encourage media platforms to portray diverse African cultures accurately, fostering a sense of collective identity.

Exchange Programs

Establish cultural exchange initiatives among African countries, encouraging citizens to experience and appreciate different traditions.

Digital Platforms

Leverage technology to create online forums, encouraging cultural exchange, dialogue, and collaboration across borders.

Language Preservation

Prioritize the preservation and teaching of indigenous languages to maintain cultural richness.

Legislation Support

Advocate for policies that protect and promote cultural diversity, ensuring long-term sustainability and appreciation for Africa's rich heritage.

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CATC 23 Resolutions

Economic Equality 4 Point Resolution Economic equality refers to the state of affairs in which individuals within a society have equal access to economic resources, opportunities, and outcomes, irrespective of factors such as gender, race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic background. It encompasses the fair distribution of wealth, income, and economic advantages, ensuring that all members of a community can participate equitably in the economic system. True economic equality is achieved when systemic barriers are dismantled, and policies and practices promote inclusive economic growth, bridging the gaps that lead to disparities in wealth, education, employment, and overall well-being.

Empowering Women in Business

Boosting the Cultural Industry

African nations commit to fostering economic equality by empowering women in business. This involves implementing policies that address gender disparities in entrepreneurship, providing financial support and mentorship programs, and encouraging gender-inclusive business environments.

To enhance economic equality, African nations resolve to invest in and promote the cultural industry.

This includes supporting artists, preserving cultural heritage, and creating platforms for the cultural sector to contribute significantly to the economy.

Thriving Middle Class

Promoting SelfSustainability

Nations commit to building a thriving middle class by implementing policies that promote inclusive economic growth. This involves investing in education, healthcare, and job creation to elevate individuals and families into the middle-income bracket.

African nations resolve to position individuals and communities towards self-sustainability. This involves promoting entrepreneurship, enhancing agricultural practices, and investing in sustainable development projects that empower communities to meet their needs independently

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Gratitude The success of the Cambridge African Together Conference (CATC) and its inaugural Resolution Document is a testament to the unwavering support and generosity of our esteemed sponsors, partners, and host institution.

We extend our deepest gratitude to: Gold Sponsors: The Mastercard Foundation African Energy Chamber The Vice Chancellor’s Office, University of Cambridge

Your commitment to fostering positive change and advancing the mission of CATC is truly appreciated.

Your invaluable support has played a pivotal role in realizing our vision for a united, empowered, and prosperous African community.

Thank you for being catalysts for positive transformation.

General Sponsors: Cambridge Africa Hughes Hall Cambridge Churchill College Cambridge Rahma Foods KEARNEY Newnham College Girton College Partners: Afro-Caribbean Society Cambridge University Nigerian Society Cambridge University Ghanaian Society Host Institution Jesus College, Cambridge

In extending our deepest gratitude, we wish to acknowledge the incredible support and enthusiasm of the vibrant African community here in Cambridge. Your unwavering commitment to unity, empowerment, and progress has been the driving force behind the success of the Cambridge African Together Conference (CATC). Your presence, ideas, and collective spirit have enriched this journey, making it a true celebration of African excellence.

Together, we've created something extraordinary, and we look forward to continuing this impactful journey in unity.

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CONTACT The African Society of Cambridge University

african@cambridgesu.co.uk camafricaday

CATC COMPREHENSIVE REPORT DECEMBER 2023

EDITORAL LEAD

CONTRIBUTORS

EDTORIAL CONTENT TEAM

The CATC 23 Conference Team (See Page 5-7)

Myesha Jemison William Awomoyi Daisy Moraa Ong’angi

Odiase Osareme Nathan