Clarkston Community Center Hosts Mandela Washington Fellows
The Clarkston Community Center proudly hosted Fellows from the Mandela Washington Fellowship, a U.S. government program that brings young African leaders to the U.S. for leadership and academic training. Since 2014, nearly 7,200 Fellows—ages 25 to 35—have participated, driving change in their home countries across business, government, and civic sectors.
During their visit, Fellows toured the Clarkston Community Center and learned about the programs offered to newly arrived refugees and immigrants. Clarkston, often called the most diverse square mile in America, is a vibrant home to people from over 50 different countries, and the Center plays a critical role in helping them transition, connect, and thrive.
The visit included a problem-solving session where Fellows were challenged to propose solutions to real-world issues in Clarkston, as if they had access to $500,000 in funding. Divided into five teams, they tackled five different community challenges presented by the Center. The Fellows impressed everyone with their creative, thoughtful, and collaborative ideas, drawing on the leadership training they had received during the program.
Marmar Stewart introduced the Fellows to the Chief Club—an initiative led by the Refugee Women’s Network.
Following this, the Fellows enjoyed a home-style Afghan meal prepared by an Afghan refugee chef, giving them a comforting and cultural dining experience.
To conclude the visit, Executive Director Luay Sami and Development Director Marjan Nadir shared the Clarkston Community Center’s vision, programs, and the transformative role the Center will play in the years ahead.
This memorable exchange was a celebration of leadership, innovation, and community—and a reminder that meaningful global connections start at the local level.