On September 11th, Global Health Corps (GHC) launched its 2025–2026 Leadership Accelerators in Africa and the United States. Across two separate program kick-offs, 64 fellows—32 in Africa and 32 in the U.S.—began their leadership journeys.
Though GHC’s Leadership Accelerators are distinct programs, they share a common purpose: equipping emerging health leaders with the skills, networks, and resilience to advance health equity. Over the next nine months, these early- and mid-career professionals will deepen their practice and apply their learnings to transform health outcomes in their communities across Malawi, Rwanda, Uganda, Zambia, and the U.S.
Why They Lead
For many fellows, this work is deeply personal.
“As a leader, I am deeply committed to advocating for social justice reform to address systemic inequities in the United States,” said Kierstyn Gallegos, a U.S. fellow based in San Antonio, Texas. “My work aims to challenge policies perpetuating inequality in education, healthcare, and economics.”
Across the ocean in Lusaka, Zambia, Atupele Esnart Chisiza echoed that conviction, linking health to opportunity itself: “A productive society is only possible when people are healthy. I am committed to ensuring equitable access to health services for women, children, and other vulnerable groups because health is a right that should be enjoyed by all, not a privilege for a few.”
And for Brittney Vincent-Buckmire, a fellow from New York City, the drive comes from both lived experience and professional purpose: “I strive to break down barriers to care, amplify community voices, and design culturally responsive health initiatives that meet people where they are.”
Two Cohorts, One Community
GHC’s Leadership Accelerators takes shape through two distinct tracks: one based in the U.S. and one in Africa. Each program is carefully tailored to reflect fellows’ unique regional contexts—whether they’re addressing the challenges of rural healthcare access in Uganda, designing community-driven health programs in Rwanda, or reimagining urban health systems in the U.S.
While the programs are separate, they share the same vision: equipping leaders with the skills, networks, and mindsets to accelerate health equity. Throughout the year, fellows will also connect at key moments to exchange perspectives and build solidarity across borders. Together, they strengthen a collective movement for health equity that is greater than the sum of its parts.
Looking Ahead
As this year’s fellows begin their journey, they are championing a singular message: equitable health systems that serve all people are possible when leaders work boldly, collaboratively, and across borders.
We can’t wait to see what they accomplish.