The Board of Directors of Africa Action today announced the appointment of Gerald LeMelle as Executive Director of Africa Action.
LeMelle comes to Africa Action after 12 years as Deputy Executive Director for Advocacy at Amnesty International (USA) and eight years as Director of African Affairs with the Phelps-Stokes Fund.
He grew up in Kenya and Tunisia and throughout his career demonstrated a passion for social and economic justice, dedicating his career to making a difference in Africa.
The Board of Directors searched for a candidate with experience and commitment to issues germane to Africa Action’s mission. In addition they wanted
experience in programs using advocacy strategies to effect social change strong management and strategic planning experience extensive fundraising/relationship development experience the ability to develop appropriate partnerships and strategic alliances in the Africa-specific and broad progressive communities demonstrated effectiveness as a communicator with the ability to represent Africa Action to a broad public and heighten Africa Action’s visibility
Emira Woods, Africa Action Board Chair, says, “We’ve selected Gerald LeMelle with his strong credentials in the management and fundraising areas Africa Action needs most at this critical time. We are also excited at the prospects of someone with Gerald’s 12-year experience managing campaigns at Amnesty, joining the leadership of the Africa advocacy community. We know that these skills will be an asset not only to Africa Action, but to the community as a whole. Gerald describes his coming to this post as a ‘spiritual journey’ back to Africa-focused work, where his core commitment lies. We are thrilled that he has taken on the challenge to lead Africa Action at this pivotal time.”
The Board of Directors says they are “looking forward to continued guidance and policy direction as Africa Action transitions to this new era of leadership.”
Africa Action