James Madison's Montpelier We The People Fall 2014 | Page 13

from leading universities, participants deepened their understanding of democratic government and
considered how constitutional reforms in their own nations could propel economic growth, prosperity,
and democracy in Africa.
The 25 Fellows were selected from an
applicant pool of more than 50,000 for their
leadership in progressive civic initiatives in
their home countries—many of which address
issues of governance, law, health care, gender
equality, education, and natural resource
management.

Mila Vertseeg, J.D., University of Virginia Law School, and Heinz Klug, Ph.D., University
of Wisconsin, opened the program with an engaging and provocative workshop about
constitution-making, good governance, and citizenship.

The Washington Fellows included 13 women
and 12 men ranging in age from 23-35, from
18 different African nation-states. With 60%
of Africa’s population under the age of 35, it is
recognized that young leaders will shape the future
of the continent.
Touring Montpelier,
the Fellows
considered the
American paradox of
slavery and gained a
greater appreciation
of how the definition
of citizenship has
changed through
amendments to the
U.S. Constitution.

We T he People

at home and abroad

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