MEET FRANCIS KOROMA

 Francis Koroma is a founder, president, speaker, and global advocate dedicated to empowering young leaders and fostering sustainable development worldwide. He is currently pursuing a degree in Political Science at Columbia University, furthering his commitment to global policy and diplomacy.

Francis is an official member of the Forbes Nonprofit Council, selected for his impactful leadership and professional accomplishments. Through this prestigious platform, he contributes thought leadership articles and expert insights alongside other global changemakers on Forbes.com.

As President of the Francis Koroma Foundation, a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Francis leads initiatives that equip the next generation of changemakers with academic support, mentorship, and leadership development. In less than two years, the foundation has expanded its reach across four continents, impacting over 2,500 young people and offering full scholarships, resources, and internships. Students mentored by the foundation have been accepted to programs like Yale Young Global Scholars and universities including Berea College (USA) and Asia Pacific University (Japan).

The foundation’s work now includes international youth diplomacy, advocacy, entrepreneurship training, and a global speaker series that connects young people with notable leaders. Over 300 volunteers support these initiatives, spanning eight countries and creating a truly international network of empowerment.

Francis’s achievements have earned him global recognition. He was awarded the African Pacesetter for Development Award (2022) at the United Nations, the 25 Under 25 Global Legacy Award (2023) from Common Purpose UK, and was named Youth Ambassador to the United Nations for Sierra Leone’s Permanent Mission. Most recently, he was appointed Secretary General of the Organization of African Youth, a testament to his tireless dedication to Africa’s future.

A compelling international speaker, Francis has addressed high-level events such as the UN ECOSOC Youth Forum, High-Level Political Forum, and UN General Assembly, where he champions the voices of young people and the realization of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

His early work in innovation includes launching FranTech3D at Yale University, a project addressing SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) by creating affordable, large-capacity water tanks through 3D printing technology. His entrepreneurial work won acclaim at the New Business Model Challenge (2020) hosted by the New Jersey Institute of Technology.

With a background in computer science and data systems, Francis has served as a SQL Server Database Administrator and a volunteer instructor for Microsoft Azure AI Fundamentals and SQL Server. His Microsoft AI Certification and earlier studies in business at BMCC continue to inform his tech-forward approach to problem-solving.

A creative at heart, Francis also brings his passion to the runway as a fashion model. He walked at New York Fashion Week in September 2023 and is an active member of ForbesBLK, The Recording Academy, and Vogue’s Global Fashion Community. Through these platforms, he mentors aspiring artists and professionals in entertainment and fashion, helping them navigate their careers.

During the pandemic, he launched The Decade Goal Podcast, a global platform that explores how leaders across sectors are preparing for long-term impact. With listeners in 54 countries and over 300 cities, the podcast reflects his vision of a connected, empowered generation shaping the next decade.