We are beyond honored to announce our official partnership with Michael and Brittany Leach, who will serve as Global Ambassadors for AREF 2026. This milestone collaboration reinforces AREF’s commitment to inclusion, global engagement, and transformative impact.

Michael Leach’s legacy is historic. As the former Special Assistant to the President of the United States and the first ever Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer at the White House under the Biden Administration, his work has shaped inclusive systems at the highest levels of global governance. His career reflects a deep commitment to opening doors, amplifying underrepresented voices, and building frameworks that create lasting opportunity.

Alongside him, Brittany Leach brings a powerful blend of passion, vision, and community driven leadership. Together, they represent a dynamic force for meaningful change, championing equity, leadership development, and cross cultural collaboration.

By joining AREF 2026, Michael and Brittany play a critical role in bridging the gap between the African continent and the global Diaspora. Their expertise in inclusion, leadership, and community building ensures that AREF 2026 will be more than an event. It will be a global movement focused on sustainable and equitable development.

This partnership marks a new chapter for AREF as we expand our global footprint, deepen international collaboration, and elevate conversations that matter. Together, we are setting the stage for a festival that is more inclusive, more impactful, and more globally connected than ever before.

AREF 2026 is not just about convening leaders. It is about shaping the future. With Michael and Brittany Leach as Global Ambassadors, that future is stronger, broader, and more intentional.