FCEM&HS Hosts Mandela Washington Fellowship

    Posted: 8/28/2017
    rsz_img_0138.jpgDirector Jeffrey J. Young and FCEM&HS are pleased to host Labran Alio Maidoukia of Niger as part of the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders Program.  The program is the flagship component of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI).  It brings young leaders to the United States for academic coursework and leadership training and creates unique opportunities in Africa for Fellows to put new skills to practical use in leading organizations, communities, and countries.

    The Professional Development Experience component of the Fellowship assists Fellows in enhancing transferrable skills and expanding their professional networks.  Labran is one of 100 competitively selected fellows who have joined private, nonprofit, and government organizations across the country to participate in an individually tailored six-week program that relates to their professional interests and goals.   

    Labran, a skilled professional and established leader in Niamey, Niger, is currently a Fire Rescue Captain and Security and Safety Manager at AREVA Nuclear Company where he specializes in emergency operations such as disasters, chemical nuclear incidents, chemical weapons and explosives response. He is also in charge of Fire Rescue at AREVA’s uranium production facilities in Niger and has been a key staff member supporting company responses to terrorist attacks in the country over the last few years.

    In early August, Labran began his professional development experience with FCEM&HS.  He has accompanied Director Young to planning meetings and participated in response training. He continues to expand his skills and gain a keen understanding of U.S. approaches and best practices in disaster preparedness and recovery.  His future goal is to become an expert of safety security for civilian protection against disasters.

    In mid-September, Labran will return to Niger and share what he has learned from his time with FCEM&HS and the Fellowship with peers and future leaders.  He will continue to build the skills he developed during his time here through regional conferences, professional practicum experiences, and mentoring opportunities.