Noel C.G Newman: IOM Global Diaspora Ambassador 2025- Empowering Youths Through Under 30 CEOs Africa

Today we are shifting the focus from negativity and putting the spotlight on someone who has not only found the path to success but has also made a way for other young people to do the same in a place where rising unemployment and dwindling opportunities are prevalent, therefore, leadership rooted in lived experiences has never been as significant as it is today.  For Noel C. G. Newman, youth empowerment advocate, social entrepreneur, and the IOM Global Diaspora Ambassador for 2025, this journey began with a story of resilience shaped by a single mother’s sacrifice and a young man’s desire to build a better future.

A Purpose Born Out of Struggle

Noel discovered his purpose in 2016 when he inherited his mother’s small food business. With few resources, he learned every aspect of food production, especially smoked chicken, a personal favorite. Through creativity and determination, he rebranded the business, improved its packaging, and expanded his customer base to supermarkets, offices, weddings, and major events.

This experience taught him a powerful lesson. Many Sierra Leonean SMEs struggle with, not because of lack of potential but because of weak branding, limited knowledge, and a gap in innovation. Determined to help change this narrative, Noel founded Under 30 CEOs Africa, a youth-led initiative offering entrepreneurship support, skills training, and innovation programs in Sierra Leone, Rwanda, and The Gambia.

Creating Opportunities for Other Generations

Since 2019, Under 30 CEOs has become a safe and empowering space for young people seeking technical skills, work experience, and business development support. Through partnerships with UNDP, the World Bank, the EU, and Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Youth Affairs, the organization has supported startups, shaped national youth policies, and delivered vocational training in carpentry, plumbing, brick-making, and other hands-on fields.

“Our mission is to reduce poverty by equipping young people with practical skills and real opportunities,” Noel explains. The initiative aims to empower 15,000 youths within five years and contribute to sustainable economic growth across communities.

Mentorship: The Undervalued Gem

Speaking from his office, Noel emphasized that mentorship has played a significant role in his leadership journey. He stated that he holds himself accountable by getting feedbacks from his mentors who guide him on some matters. One of his strongest influences is Nelson Mandela. Through studying Mandela’s writings and attending events held in his honor, Noel has drawn inspiration from his courage, unity, and belief in justice.

Mandela’s legacy also shapes Noel’s vision for a future monument beneath Sierra Leone’s historic Cotton Tree. He imagines a circular structure that symbolizes unity and diversity.

Championing The Digital Diaspora                                                                 As a diaspora ambassador, Noel recognizes how globalization and technology have reshaped identity and belonging. Older generations relied on letters and long-awaited visits to stay connected. Today’s youth engage instantly through social media, virtual events, and online activism.

“Young diaspora members now have a dynamic and fluid sense of belonging,” he says. “With one click, we can participate in social movements, mentor entrepreneurs, or contribute to our home countries.” This digital transformation has strengthened the voice of young diaspora leaders and expanded their ability to invest, innovate, and influence change across continents.

Partnership That Drives Impact                                                             A significant turning point in Noel’s journey came through the Young African Leaders Initiative, a U.S.-funded leadership program that connected him with a network of changemakers across Africa. Through Under 30 CEOs, he has contributed to several national initiatives, including:

• The National Youth Policy Review

•  The Status of Youth Report

•  National trade fairs and exhibitions

•  Vocational training for disadvantaged youth

These efforts continue to create meaningful opportunities for young entrepreneurs and job seekers.

A Vision for The Future                                                                                       If given the chance to implement a policy across Africa, Noel would prioritize access to financial opportunities for young entrepreneurs. This includes low-interest loans, startup grants, and business development programs. “We must stop seeing young people as inexperienced,” he stresses. “They are the innovators of today, not just the leaders of tomorrow.”

A Message to Young Leaders Worldwide                                                        For Noel, true leadership is rooted in honesty, transparency, relationship-building, and consistency. His message to young leaders around the world is simple but deeply inspiring: “Believe in yourself. Take initiative. Keep showing up. Small beginnings can lead to extraordinary destinies. If I can make it, then so can you.”