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Kadmiel Van Der Puije, the distinguished serial entrepreneur, author, philanthropist, and World Bank Youth Delegate, has been named one of the Founding Members of the African Diaspora Leaders Network (ADLN), an initiative under Ashoka, the world’s largest network of social innovators.
Founded in 1980 by Bill Drayton, Ashoka coined the term social entrepreneurship and has since supported system-changing individuals who develop innovative solutions to society’s most pressing problems. Today, Ashoka spans 98 countries, with over 4,000 Ashoka Fellows impacting more than 650 million people annually. Four of its Fellows—Muhammed Yunus, Kailash Satyarthi, Jerry White, and Carlos Nobre—are Nobel Peace Prize recipients. Recognized by Forbes as one of the most innovative organizations in the world, Ashoka continues to pioneer global social change by empowering individuals to drive long-lasting, systemic impact.
The African Diaspora Leaders Network (ADLN) is an Ashoka initiative designed to unite African diaspora leaders who have demonstrated expertise and commitment to Africa’s development. By connecting these leaders with Ashoka Fellows across industries, the ADLN aims to catalyze sustainable, community-driven change. Its core pillars include:
- Partnering and Co-Creating with Ashoka Fellows – Leaders collaborate with Ashoka Africa and US Fellows to amplify social innovations through mentorship, strategic guidance, and ecosystem solutions.
- Network Building – Members bridge communities, sectors, geographies, and policymakers to accelerate systemic change.
- Voices of Influence – The network elevates African Diaspora perspectives in global forums, advocating for policies and narratives that reflect the realities and aspirations of African-descendant communities.
- Resource Mobilization – Leaders unlock new, sustainable funding and support for high-impact initiatives that foster an Africa with agency.
- Thought Leadership and Advocacy – Through convenings, publications, and public engagement, members shape discourse on Africa’s development and the Diaspora’s role in driving progress.
Kadmiel Van Der Puije brings extensive experience to this global initiative. He is best known as the CEO of The Voice of Africa (TVOA)—The Gateway To ALL THINGS AFRICA, a United Nations and World Bank-accredited platform connecting global audiences to Africa through media, tourism, events, youth development, and investment opportunities. TVOA’s ecosystem includes:
- TVOA Media – Bridging global audiences to Africa through authentic storytelling.
- Experience Africa – The largest Pan-African event in Washington, D.C., celebrating African and Caribbean cultures.
- Experience Africa Tours – Offering transformative travel experiences for the African diaspora.
- TVOA Trade, Investment, and Tourism Forum – Driving sustainable development in Africa through strategic partnerships.
- Ambassador of Africa – Empowering African youth to lead, innovate, and shape the continent’s future.
Beyond TVOA, Kadmiel is the founder of Dervan Solutions, a management and digital consulting firm, and Naberm Publications, which champions authentic storytelling and amplifies diverse voices worldwide. His philanthropic work is equally transformative: as CEO of The Father’s Haven Children’s Home, he is committed to providing homes for orphans across Africa, and through The Countess Foundation, he develops ecosystem cities empowering women and children. He also serves on the Board of Trustees of Naberm Montessori School in Ada, Ghana, promoting excellence in early childhood education.
A man of faith and purpose, Kadmiel is a youth ministry leader at Dominion Life Ministries Church, mentoring young people to pursue lives of integrity, service, and impact.
By joining the African Diaspora Leaders Network under Ashoka, Kadmiel is now positioned to leverage his experience, networks, and vision to accelerate systemic change for Africa, fostering collaborations that connect the diaspora to sustainable development, social innovation, and global leadership opportunities. His involvement promises to elevate African voices, influence policy, and inspire a new generation of changemakers dedicated to building a resilient and empowered Africa.