Laganeh Fade is a Master of Arts student in Global African Studies at The Africa Institute, Global Studies University, specializing in Diplomacy and Africa’s International Relations. Born in the United States, she examines African political economy, diplomacy, and alternative development frameworks, with a focus on decolonial and socialist theory, revolutionary thought, and South–South cooperation. Drawing on interdisciplinary African studies, field-based research in West Africa, and professional experience in Francophone contexts, Laganeh investigates how Africa can shape equitable global governance and assert agency in international relations. Her work emphasizes Africa’s intellectual and political leadership in reimagining international development, diplomacy, and policy frameworks.
Academic Background
- B.A., Individualized Studies (Development of the African Subcontinent), New York University, Gallatin School of Individualized Study, 2023
Professional Experience
- Political Education Intern (Labor History and Global Solidarity Programs), The People’s Forum, USA, 2026
- French–English Translator (Sustainable Policy and Development Publications for African Programs), United Nations Volunteers, USA, 2025
- Bergman Summer Research Fellow (Ethnographic Research on Development and Public Health), Senegal/USA, 2022
- Changemaker Fellow (Barriers to Education Access), Senegal, 2023
Publications and Contributions
- 2023, Changemaker Fellowship Award, New York University – Competitive $10,000 fellowship supporting field-based work on education access in Senegal
- 2023, Disregard as Development (Senior Thesis), New York University – Honors thesis analyzing colonial legacies and development models in Africa
- 2023, E. Frances White Award, New York University – Awarded for outstanding undergraduate thesis and scholarly contribution in African Studies
- 2022, Africa House Bergman Summer Research Fellowship, New York University – Funded ethnographic research on development and public health in Dakar, Senegal
- 2022, Global Pandemic, Local Risks: COVID-19 in Senegal, NYU Africa House Research Blog – Published research-based articles on development and public health
In Their Own Words
"Joining The Africa Institute has given me access to a diverse and intellectually rigorous community dedicated to centering Africa in scholarship and practice. Learning alongside peers with deeply specialized interests provides the guidance and environment I need to develop focused, sustained research and a long-term commitment to Africa’s future."
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