Kenyan rapper Juliani bags top US fellowship 

Eisenhower Fellowships president George de Lama broke the news to the artist in a letter dated 15 June, informing him that he had beat strong competition to earn admission into the programme. De Lama added that Eisenhower fellows are outstanding leaders from around the world making great contributions to their societies.

“It gives me great pleasure to inform you that you have been selected as a fellow from Kenya for the Eisenhower Fellowships,” de Lama said. “This powerful in-person experience will be preceded by a series of virtual sessions beginning in February. I urge you to think carefully about how you intend to maximise your own impact and articulate how the fellowship can help you produce tangible results.” 

Juliani, an award-winning hip hop artist, entrepreneur, ambassador, speaker, and activist, has been actively engaged in community empowerment activities through his Dandora Hip Hop City Foundation. The organisation works to transform the lives of people living in Dandora, one of Nairobi’s toughest neighbourhoods where he grew up. 

“Over the moon! I am an Eisenhower Fellow. I got a call from Eisenhower Fellowships vice president Erin Hillman,” Juliani announced on social media. “I am so grateful to the Kenyan panel selection committee and everybody who made this possible. Looking forward to learning, growing, and contributing. Baraka tele (many blessings).” 

Eisenhower identifies, empowers and connects innovative leaders through a transformative fellowship experience and lifelong engagement in a global network of dynamic change agents committed to creating a world more peaceful, prosperous, and just.

It was created in 1953 to honour President Dwight D Eisenhower for his contribution to humanity as a world leader.