“…if you want to see change, you must be willing to lead that change.”- Alfred Eli K. Dei
Alfred Eli Kwasi Dei is a distinguished Ghanaian legal professional, social entrepreneur, leadership coach, and emerging diplomat, widely celebrated for his transformative contributions to youth empowerment, international law, and sustainable development across Africa and the global diaspora. With a career spanning legal advocacy, institutional leadership, and innovative enterprise, Alfred’s work reflects an unwavering commitment to excellence, equity, and advancing African youth in governance, education, and human rights.
He is an alumnus of the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), where he obtained his Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.), and the University of Ghana, where he earned his Master of Laws (LL.M.) in International Law, specializing in international trade, corporate governance, investment, humanitarian law, and human rights. His academic credentials are complemented by a French language certification from Alliance Française and foundational education from the prestigious Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School in Legon. His early career included service as a Judicial Clerk at the Judicial Service of Ghana, where he conducted legal research and contributed to several legal drafting, sharpening his practical skills and judicial insight.
Alfred currently serves as the Chief Business Development Officer at Cleva Technologies Ltd., Toronto, where he leads the company’s strategic expansion, including a landmark partnership with MasterCard that facilitates operations in over 150 countries. Prior to this role, he was the Head of Partnerships at FloodGates Limited, spearheading institutional alliances. His leadership capacity also shines through his co-founding of EyisonDeiAmoah & Associates, a trailblazing student-led legal firm that reshaped UPSA’s law school advocacy culture. Under his guidance, the firm achieved victories in every major national moot competition and secured a place on the international stage through platforms such as the John H. Jackson Moot in Geneva and the Philip C. Jessup Moot in Washington D.C. As a WTO Moot Trainer, he successfully led an African Moot team to the global finals in Geneva.
Alfred has indeed carved a unique niche in African leadership and youth development. He is the Co-Founder of the African Young Leaders Foundation, which empowers over 500 young leaders across 33 African countries through mentorship, entrepreneurship training, civic engagement, and regional collaboration. As the Convenor of the African Youth Empowerment Summit (AYES), he leads one of the continent’s largest platforms for youth-driven dialogue on Agenda 2063 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, shaping the policy and leadership ecosystem of tomorrow. He also serves as Head of Leadership Development at the Reformation Community, where he has trained more than 1,000 children in literacy and over 500 young leaders in business innovation and ethical leadership. His efforts culminated in the Reformation Leadership Summit, a landmark convening of Ghanaian thought leaders and professionals committed to national development. He expanded the reach of the Community to East Africa, advancing a collaborative Africa and a generation of self-motivated young Africans.
Alfred’s dedication to impact-driven initiatives is further evidenced by his work with the UBUNTU Development Network, where he forged over 10 cross-continental partnerships with institutions including the United Nations and the African Union. Through this platform, he facilitated a major entrepreneurship workshop for over 200 emerging African entrepreneurs. He also serves as the Programs Director for Aretha Malka/Virtuous Queens International, leading social interventions in education, maternal health, and access to clean water across underserved communities.
A formidable force in international law and diplomacy, Alfred served as International President of the Federation of African Law Students (FALAS) in 2021, a position in which he expanded the organization’s reach to 42 countries and launched a mentorship program, an online radio, and podcast that benefited over 500 students continent-wide. Under his leadership, FALAS formed strategic partnerships with leading global institutions such as the Commonwealth Lawyers Association, DLA Piper, AB & David, and the National Bar Association (USA), opening international pathways for young African legal professionals. He chaired and led two historic annual FALAS Conferences in Ghana and South Africa, the largest gatherings of African law students in history. Alfred previously held the position of Head of Diplomacy and External Affairs for FALAS and continues to influence its direction currently as a member of the Board of Trustees and as the High Commissioner of the FALAS Alumni Commission.
As a human rights advocate and public speaker, Alfred has spoken at prominent international forums, including the UN African Business and Human Rights Forum in Kenya, the African Union APRM Youth Symposium in Uganda, the Global Women Lead Forum, and the Young Commonwealth Lawyers Conference. His advocacy emphasizes the intersection of youth participation, digital innovation, inclusive trade, and access to justice. As a Garvey-Nkrumah Fellow, he conducted policy research into Africa’s trade governance and contributed to continental dialogue on integration and institutional reform.
His exceptional leadership and service have earned him numerous accolades, including his selection among the Global 100 Under 40 Most Influential People of African Descent (Humanitarian Category) in 2022. He is a three-time recipient of the Leadership Icon Award, presented in Ghana (2021), Liberia (2022), and South Africa (2022), in recognition of his work in legal education and Pan-African youth diplomacy. In a testament to his enduring legacy, the UPSA Law School Mooting Society instituted the Eli K. Dei Award, presented annually to law students who exemplify excellence in legal practice and advocacy. Additionally, the Federation of African Law Students established the Alfred Eli K. Dei FALAS West Africa Essay Competition, honouring his commitment to academic scholarship and visionary legal leadership.
Alfred is affiliated with several prestigious legal and leadership organizations. He is a member of the British-Ghana Lawyers Union and the Young Commonwealth Lawyers Association, a Board Member of One Hundred Black Men (Ghana Chapter), and an active participant in the Full Gospel Businessmen Fellowship International, where he advocates for ethical and faith-driven leadership. Fluent in English, with working proficiency in French and foundational skills in German, Alfred is a gifted communicator and public speaker. His unique blend of legal insight, developmental strategy, and visionary leadership continues to inspire a new generation of African changemakers. As he continues to shape legal systems, mentor young professionals, and promote collaborative diplomacy, Alfred Eli Kwasi Dei stands as a formidable ambassador for Africa’s future, rooted in justice, driven by impact, and guided by purpose.
Titles often tell only part of the story. If we strip away the awards and professional milestones, who would we find at the core of your journey?
At the core of Alfred’s journey, he is a passionate advocate for justice, ethical leadership, and youth empowerment. His journey has been shaped by a deep sense of purpose, a desire to make a difference, and an unwavering belief in the power of young people to transform societies. Growing up, he was always drawn to fairness and equity. Whether it was standing up for a classmate in school or engaging in debates about social justice, he felt a strong need to ensure that the voices of the unheard were amplified. Over the years, this passion has evolved into a career that blends law, advocacy, business, and mentorship. Beyond my professional milestones, he is someone who values meaningful connections and lifelong learning. He believes in using his skills and knowledge to create pathways for others, whether through legal advocacy, business development, or leadership training. His work is not just about personal success. It is about building a legacy that will outlive him, ensuring that the next generation of leaders is better equipped to drive sustainable change.
What values, experiences, or personal philosophies define you?
Several values and experiences have shaped who he is today: integrity, resilience, service, and a commitment to excellence. Integrity is the foundation of everything he does. As a legal professional and social entrepreneur, he understands the weight of responsibility that comes with decision-making. He strives to be transparent and ethical in his dealings, ensuring that every action he takes aligns with his core values. Resilience has been a defining trait in his journey. There have been moments of setbacks, challenges, and failures, but each one has taught him a valuable lesson. Whether it was facing obstacles in securing opportunities or dealing with leadership challenges, he has learned that perseverance and adaptability are key to success. Service is another value that drives him. He firmly believes that leadership is about empowering others, not just personal achievement. This is why he has dedicated much of his career to mentoring young people, creating opportunities for law students, and advocating for social change. His philosophy is simple: if you want to see change, you must be willing to lead that change. He does not wait for opportunities to be handed to him: He creates them, not just for himself but for others as well.
Advocacy is often deeply personal. Was there a particular injustice you witnessed or experienced that fuelled your passion? Or perhaps a mentor, historical figure, or personal role model who profoundly influenced your approach?
His passion for advocacy was ignited during his time as a law student when he saw how many talented and hardworking students struggled to access opportunities simply because of a lack of networks and resources. He witnessed firsthand how young African law students, despite their brilliance, were often overlooked in global legal spaces. This realization drove him to take action. As the International President of the Federation of African Law Students (FALAS) and beyond his time in that active role, he has made it his mission to bridge this gap by creating mentorship programs, securing international partnerships, and ensuring that African law students had access to the same opportunities as their counterparts in other parts of the world. In terms of inspiration, he draws a lot from historical figures like Kwame Nkrumah and Nelson Mandela. These are leaders who not only fought for justice but also built institutions that transformed their societies. Their resilience and visionary leadership remind him that change is never easy, but it is always worth the fight. He also credits mentors and peers who have guided him along the way, pushing him to think bigger and act bolder. His advocacy is personal because he has seen the difference it can make in people’s lives, and that keeps him going.
Leadership in law and human rights can take many forms. Some through policy, others through activism, scholarship, or quiet resilience. In your view, what are the qualities that define authentic and effective leadership in this field?
Authentic leadership in law and human rights requires a combination of vision, integrity, adaptability, and the ability to inspire change. In terms of vision, he believes a leader must see beyond the present and work towards a future that is better for all. In his leadership journey, he has always sought to create lasting impact rather than just temporary solutions. In terms of integrity, it is important to note that this field demands ethical leadership because decisions affect people’s lives and freedoms. A leader must be fair, honest, and principled in their approach. As far as adaptability is concerned, laws and human rights issues evolve with time, so a leader must be willing to learn, unlearn, and embrace innovation to stay relevant and effective. In terms of inspiration, he has come to understand that the best leaders do not just give instructions; they inspire others to act. Leadership is about empowering others, and he has always focused on mentorship as a way to build a strong, capable generation of future leaders. Leadership in this field is therefore not just about holding positions; it is about taking responsibility for change, whether through writing, speaking, activism, or policymaking.
Amongst all your endeavours, is there one case, project, or initiative that stands out as a defining moment in your career? What made it so significant, and what impact did it leave on both you and those it served?
One of the most defining moments of his journey was contributing to the expansion of the reach of the Federation of African Law Students (FALAS) to over 40 African countries and the creation of initiatives like Mentorship Programs to aid in creating a potent legal community in Africa. When he took office as International President, he recognized that while FALAS was doing important work, its impact was limited to a few countries. He made it his mission to grow the organization’s presence globally and increase its relevance in international legal circles. Through strategic partnerships with global organizations like the Commonwealth Lawyers Association and various law firms like DLA Piper, Baker Mckenzie, AB & David, Ntrakwah and Co., he was able to create programs that connected African law students to internships, scholarships, and mentorship opportunities worldwide. The impact was profound. Hundreds of students have benefited and continue to benefit from these initiatives, gaining access to career-changing opportunities. For him, the most rewarding part was seeing young African legal minds step into global spaces where they previously had little representation. This experience reaffirmed his belief that African youth can compete and excel at the highest levels when given the right opportunities. This propelled him into new experiences and a path that he loves, “legal diplomacy”.
The younger generation looks up to great achievers like you for inspiration. What intentional steps do you take to ensure that young legal minds and aspiring advocates are equipped, empowered, and prepared to carry the torch forward?
Empowering the next generation is one of his greatest priorities. He believes that leadership is only meaningful when it creates opportunities for others to rise. That is why he has been actively involved in mentorship, training programs, and youth-led initiatives.
i. Mentorship Programs: Through organizations like the African Young Leaders Foundation and the Federation of African Law Students, he has helped train and mentor young legal minds, providing them with guidance, career advice, and networking opportunities.
ii. Legal Education & Training: He has coached law students for major international moot court competitions, such as the WTO Moot and the Philip Jessup Moot Court Competitions.
Through these efforts, African law students have been able to compete globally, representing the continent with excellence. Law students are also showcasing their talents through initiatives like the Alfred Eli K. Dei West Africa Essay Writing Competition, a platform designed to give students in the region an opportunity to apply their legal writing skills. He believes that the future of Africa lies in its young people, and he is committed to ensuring that they are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to make an impact. It is not just about passing the torch, but rather, it is about making sure they are ready to carry it forward.
From climate justice to digital rights and displacement crises, human rights advocacy is constantly being redefined. What emerging challenges or trends do you believe international law must urgently address, and what reforms or innovations do you foresee shaping the field?
The landscape of human rights advocacy is evolving rapidly, and with that comes a set of emerging challenges that international law must address with urgency and innovation. Three key areas stand out to him:
i. Digital Rights & Privacy in the Age of AI With the increasing integration of artificial intelligence and surveillance technologies into everyday life, digital rights and privacy concerns have become more pressing than ever. Many governments and corporations are gathering vast amounts of personal data, often without clear regulations to protect users. The challenge is to develop strong international legal frameworks that balance security needs with individual privacy and digital freedoms.
ii. Climate Justice & Environmental Rights Climate change is no longer a distant issue; it is affecting livelihoods, displacing communities, and challenging existing human rights doctrines. Many vulnerable communities, especially in Africa and small island nations, face the brunt of environmental degradation caused by industrialized nations. International law must evolve to ensure that climate justice is not just an environmental issue but a legally enforceable human right that holds nations and corporations accountable for their contributions to the crisis.
iii. Migration and Displacement Crises Conflicts, economic disparities, and climate disasters are forcing millions of people to flee their homes. However, current international frameworks for refugees and displaced persons often fail to protect those who do not fit the traditional definition of a refugee. We need legal reforms that recognize climate migrants and economic refugees as persons entitled to protection and assistance.
iv. Innovations & Reforms International law must become more proactive rather than reactive. We need binding legal instruments on digital rights, climate responsibility, and migration protections. Additionally, he foresees a stronger role for regional bodies like the African Union and ECOWAS in shaping localized responses that align with global legal standards. Technology will also play a role, with blockchain and AI being used to ensure transparency in human rights monitoring and accountability.
Challenges often shape us more than our successes. Can you share a time when you faced a major roadblock, whether legal, institutional, or personal, and how you overcame it? What did you learn in the process?
One of the biggest challenges he faced in his journey was during his tenure as International President of the Federation of African Law Students (FALAS). When he assumed office, the organization had great potential but lacked an institutional presence, sustainable funding, and strong international partnerships. There were internal conflicts, leadership gaps, and skepticism about whether we could truly expand our reach across Africa. At times, it felt overwhelming balancing his academic life, personal growth, and the responsibility of leading a continental organization. However, he refused to let these roadblocks define the outcome. He adopted a strategic approach:
i. Building Credibility – He engaged with international legal bodies and stakeholders to establish partnerships. Securing collaborations with several international institutions and organizations gave us the legitimacy needed to attract funding and new members.
ii. Resilience & Teamwork – He learned the importance of delegation and trusting his team. Leadership is not about doing everything alone but about empowering others to step up. This experience taught him that challenges are not stopping signs but they are rather opportunities to innovate and lead with resilience. Today, FALAS is stronger than ever and keeps growing, and that period of struggle made him a better leader.
Law and advocacy sometimes demand difficult choices, balancing ethics, justice, and personal values. Can you share a moment when you had to make a hard decision that tested your principles, and how it shaped your career moving forward?
One of the most difficult decisions he had to make involved declining a high-paying opportunity that conflicted with his ethical values. Early in his career, he was approached with an offer to provide legal consultation for a corporate entity that, upon deeper research, he discovered had been involved in exploitative labour practices. It was a tempting opportunity, financially lucrative and career-boosting, but it went against his principles of ethical governance and human rights advocacy. He struggled with the decision because, like any young professional, financial stability was a major concern. However, he ultimately chose to walk away. That decision shaped his career in two key ways:
i. It reinforced his commitment to ethical leadership – He realised that success should not come at the cost of one’s values. Walking away from unethical opportunities has allowed me to build a reputation of integrity and credibility.
ii. It led him to more meaningful opportunities – Shortly after, he received an opportunity to work on an impactful project focused on corporate governance and ethical business practices, which aligned with his true purpose. This experience taught him that sticking to one’s principles might seem costly in the short term, but in the long run, it builds a career grounded in respect and authenticity.
As the world becomes more interconnected, human rights advocacy is evolving. What major shifts do you foresee in the coming decade, and how can lawyers prepare for the challenges and opportunities ahead?
The next decade will bring major shifts in human rights advocacy, shaped by globalization, technology, and changing socio-political landscapes. Here are three key trends that he has observed:
i. The Rise of Technology & AI in Legal Practice The use of artificial intelligence in legal analysis, case predictions, and human rights monitoring will grow. Lawyers must adapt by becoming tech-savvy and understanding how digital tools can enhance advocacy efforts.
ii. Decentralisation of Legal Power There will be a shift from reliance on centralized legal institutions to regional and grassroots movements driving change. Lawyers will need to collaborate more with civil society organizations and community-based legal advocacy groups.
iii. Increased Cross-border Legal Challenges Issues like data protection, corporate accountability, and global migration policies will demand international collaboration. Lawyers must embrace international law and cross-border legal strategies to remain relevant. To prepare, young legal professionals should develop a global perspective, specialize in emerging legal fields like tech law and environmental justice, and build networks beyond their immediate jurisdictions.
Your work has already left a significant mark, but every visionary is always looking ahead. Are there any upcoming projects, ideas, or collaborations that excite you and align with your broader mission?
Yes! He is currently working on a project focused on empowering young African entrepreneurs through legal education and business mentorship. Through his work with organizations like Cleva Technologies Ltd., Nexa Growth Africa, and the African Young Leaders Foundation, he is developing a program that will provide startup founders with legal knowledge on corporate governance, intellectual property, and regulatory compliance. Through these initiatives, he is organizing the African Youth Empowerment Summit, which aims to convene Africa’s most dynamic youth leaders, policymakers, youth entrepreneurs, and development experts to create a potent ecosystem and drive change in Africa. They are converging in Kenya this year. Additionally, he is exploring collaborations with global legal firms to create internship pipelines for African law students to gain hands-on experience in corporate law, international trade, and policy advocacy. He is also planning to expand his mentorship initiatives, ensuring that young professionals across Africa have access to leadership training, business strategy insights, and legal career development programs. These projects align with my broader mission of bridging the opportunity gap between Africa and the global legal/business space.
For those who are just beginning, the path may seem daunting. Based on your journey, what advice, mindset, or guiding principles would you offer to young legal professionals and advocates trying to find their place and purpose in this field?
His advice to young legal professionals is simple:
i. Stay Curious & Keep Learning – The legal field is vast, and continuous learning will set you apart. Read widely, take courses, and expand your knowledge beyond law into areas like business, technology, and governance.
ii. Build Strong Networks – Success is not just about what you know, but who you know and how you collaborate. Engage with mentors, join professional organizations, and seek out meaningful connections.
iii. Be Purpose-Driven – Define your “why” early. Whether you want to work in human rights, corporate law, or policymaking, align your career with a purpose that keeps you motivated.
iv. Embrace Challenges – Every setback is a setup for growth. Learn from failures and keep pushing forward. Most importantly, never underestimate your ability to create change. Start where you are, use what you have, and take action!
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