African Collaborative Network - ACN

Happy International Women’s Day to all the incredible women around the world!!🌍💜

We are pleased to welcome Esperance Abedi as Interim Director of the African Collaborative Network. As a nonprofit founder, business owner, and community leader, Esperance brings deep commitment to educational access, entrepreneurship, and economic opportunity for African communities and refugees. Her leadership experience—founding Sunga to support children’s education, graduating with honors from Western Michigan University, and serving in multicultural student leadership—will strengthen ACN’s day-to-day operations and deepen partner engagement.

I invite our community and partners in West Michigan to join us in supporting Esperance as she advances our mission across advocacy, education, economic empowerment, and cultural unity. Share your welcome messages, collaboration ideas, or questions below — and visit the full announcement to learn more.

ACN Welcomes Esperance Abedi as Interim Director The African Collaborative Network (ACN) is pleased to announce the appointment of Esperance Abedi as Interim Director.Esperance is a nonprofit founder, business owner, and community leader deeply committed to empowering African communities and refugees through education, entrepreneurship, and expand...

Ghana is coming to West Michigan 🇬🇭
March 3–7 at Princess African Cuisine🫕🫕
Honoring Ghana’s Independence and the spirit of resilience that continues to inspire generations🥳

Join us as we celebrate culture, community, and freedom✊🏽🥳

Calling all rising immigrant leaders in the Midwest/Michigan!

’s Ready to Lead is coming back to Detroit, Michigan! Designed by and for New Americans, their training will show you how to message, fundraise, and embrace your immigrant heritage and experiences to become a successful candidate.

Apply today at bit.ly/NAL2026

Ready to Lead® - New American Leaders Ready to Lead® is our signature training program that identifies the immigrant experience as a valuable asset in civic leadership. Our curriculum, thoughtfully designed by New Americans, shows trainees how to message, fundraise, and embrace their heritage to become successful candidates. At Ready t...

Thanks to our award honorees for your work and dedication to the African community of West Michigan. Les clayWest Michigan Welcome PlanCity of Grand Rapids Office of Equity and EngagementThe City of Grand RapidsTausi ZainaKentwood Community Churchty

Amazing talk from our Keynote speaker, Mr. Goei Bing. Our community has a lot to learn from yours and we are grateful for your grace and insights. Goei CenterLes clay West Michigan Welcome PlanWest Michigan Asian American Association Inc

Amazing show of unity & resolve at the Visioning 2025 luncheon yesterday, by the African community West Michigan. .Les clayWest Michigan Welcome PlanCity of Grand Rapids Office of Equity and EngagementTausi ZainaWest Michigan Asian American Association IncMichigan UnitedPrincess KonnehReouhidi Reuben NdjerareouMyra Maimoh MusicA Glimpse of AfricaHispanic Center of Western MichiganThe City of Grand RapidsMichigan Immigrant Rights Center

In response to rising fears over deportation, D.C. area schools are stepping up to support immigrant children with legal resources, counseling, and safe spaces. As parents, it's equally important to take steps at home to help ease your children's fears. Below are some key actions to consider.

These efforts, paired with the ongoing support from local schools, can help provide your children with the tools and reassurance they need during this uncertain time.

For more details, read this article by the Washington Post: https://www.washingtonpost.com/education/2025/01/28/dc-schools-immigration-policies/

Michigan Immigrant Rights Center

Not sure where to turn? Check out MIRC's resources for immigrants in Michigan:

1. Know Your Rights - Find Michigan-specific information about your rights, how to prepare your family for enforcement, what to do if ICE comes to your door, and what to do after someone is arrested or detained. 👉🏿 bit.ly/MIRCKYR

2. Immigration Legal Services - If you are in need of immigration legal services, call us at 734-239-6863. If lines are busy, leave a message and we will return your call. ☎️

3. All detainees can call MIRC for free from detention.

Recap of Day 1 at the

Huge thanks to our volunteers and our founder, Reouhidi Reuben Ndjerareou and the African Think Thank for rallying an incredible crew of volunteers to support the ACN at the NIIC!