DIASPORA POLICY LAB

Shaping Global Policy Through Diasporic Leadership

The Diaspora Policy Lab is a global initiative of the Kush Institute of International Affairs (KIIA) that empowers African-descended leaders, scholars, and change agents to design and influence policy solutions to some of the world’s most urgent challenges.

Through collaborative research, immersive labs, global roundtables, and an incubator for bold ideas, the Lab provides a platform for African diaspora voices to shape policies that matter — across Africa, the Caribbean, Latin America, North America, and beyond.

MISSION OF THE DIASPORA POLICY LABS

Get to Know Us

“To foster diaspora-led policy innovation that advances justice, equity, and sustainable development by mobilizing African-descended thinkers and practitioners to co-create solutions, build networks, and inform global governance.”

WHO SHOULD PARTICIPATE?

We welcome:

Scholars and graduate students of African descent
Policy professionals, diplomats, and civil society leaders
Entrepreneurs and innovators solving diasporic challenges
Youth delegates (18–25) and seasoned elders (60+)
Participants across Africa, the Caribbean, Latin America, North America, and Europe

Language Access: English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese
Accessibility: Inclusive of participants with disabilities or stateless/undocumented backgrounds.

What We Offer

1

Quarterly Policy Labs (Hybrid)

Immersive workshops exploring:

Economic Sovereignty & Diaspora Trade
Climate Resilience & Environmental Justice
Governance, Human Rights & Reparatory Justice

Cultural Innovation & Heritage Preservation

2

Research Fellowship
(6 Months)

Conduct diaspora-centered policy research
Receive mentorship and funding support
Publish in the Global South Policy Journal
Participate in virtual & in-person events

3

Policy Incubator

Submit proposals to receive strategic guidance & seed funding
Launch pilot projects that advance diaspora development

Showcase ideas at KIIA’s annual policy summits

4

Global Roundtable Dialogues

High-level conversations with UN, AU, CARICOM, and ministries
Produce Diaspora Policy Communiqués for global circulation

5

Leadership Training & Workshops

Policy writing, impact evaluation, and data justice
Global lobbying and advocacy skills
Cross-cultural negotiation and inclusive diplomacy

TIMELINE

Let’s Work Together

Get in touch so we can start working together.

DIASPORA POLICY LAB