United Kingdom | 9 November 2026
The Global Reputation Forum (GRF) is pleased to announce the appointment of two distinguished African leaders as Regional Co-Chairs of its Global African Governing Board, marking a significant milestone in the Forum’s commitment to strengthening African leadership, advancing global reputation and amplifying the continent’s contributions to international development. The appointments bring together distinguished experience in humanitarian leadership, public service, governance and continental engagement, reinforcing the Forum’s vision of building a stronger, more credible and globally recognised African narrative. Leading the Board’s regional representation are:
Hind Laidi – Co-Chair, Northern Africa
Chief Executive Officer, JOOD ONG Hind Laidi, Chief Executive Officer of JOOD ONG, has been appointed Co-Chair for Northern Africa. Through her leadership in the humanitarian sector, she brings valuable experience in social impact, community development and humanitarian engagement. Her appointment reflects the Forum’s commitment to recognising leaders whose work extends beyond professional achievements to create meaningful change in society.
Her Royal Highness Princess Ncengecenge Dlamini
Co-Chair, Southern Africa Senator in the Parliament of the Kingdom of Eswatini
Her Royal Highness Princess Ncengecenge Dlamini, Senator in the Parliament of the Kingdom of Eswatini, has been appointed Co-Chair for Southern Africa. Her appointment brings an important dimension of public service, governance and regional representation to the Board, strengthening the Forum’s engagement with influential African institutions and leadership networks. Together, the two Co-Chairs will contribute to advancing the Forum’s continental engagement, strengthening regional partnerships and supporting initiatives that promote integrity, leadership, institutional credibility and reputational excellence across Africa.

Hind Laidi
CEO, JOOD ONG Co-Chair

Princess Ncengecenge Dlamini
Senator in Parliament, Kingdom of Eswatini
Expanding Continental Representation The establishment of the Global African Governing Board forms part of the Global Reputation Forum’s broader vision to build a network of credible and influential African voices capable of contributing to conversations around leadership, reputation, development and Africa’s global standing. The Forum is bringing together distinguished personalities from across different regions and professional backgrounds to support its mission.
Further appointments and additional members of the Global African Governing Board will be announced in due course, as the initiative continues to expand its continental and international representation.
Advancing the 2027 100 Most Reputable Africans
The announcement comes as the Global Reputation Forum prepares for the 2027 edition of the 100 Most Reputable Africans, with nominations currently ongoing. The annual recognition initiative celebrates Africans whose leadership, integrity, professional accomplishments and contributions are making a meaningful difference across the continent and beyond.
The 2027 edition will recognise outstanding individuals across diverse sectors, including governance, business, entrepreneurship, technology, education, healthcare, humanitarian service, arts, culture, diplomacy and social impact. Through the Global African Governing Board, the Forum seeks to deepen its continental reach, encourage wider participation and strengthen the process of identifying Africans whose work exemplifies excellence, ethical leadership and positive societal transformation.
Nominations are officially open. Individuals, organisations, institutions and stakeholders across Africa and the diaspora are invited to nominate deserving personalities whose achievements and contributions merit continental and international recognition.
SUBMIT A NOMINATION FOR THE 2027 100 MOST REPUTABLE AFRICANS:
https://www.reputationpoll.com/reputation-form/
A Shared Vision for Africa’s
Reputation In a statement, the Global Reputation Forum Secretariat noted:
“Africa’s reputation must be shaped by the quality of its leadership, the integrity of its institutions and the contributions of its people. The establishment of the Global African Advisory Board, beginning with these distinguished regional appointments, represents an important step towards building stronger connections across the continent.
We are delighted to welcome Hind Laidi and Her Royal Highness Princess Ncengecenge Dlamini into these leadership positions. Their respective experiences and contributions will support our continued efforts to advance meaningful partnerships, recognise excellence and promote a more balanced and positive global perception of Africa.
As we look towards the 2027 100 Most Reputable Africans, we remain committed to celebrating individuals whose work reflects the values, aspirations and potential of our continent.”
The Global Reputation Forum looks forward to the contributions of its newly appointed Regional Co-Chairs and the wider Advisory Board as it continues to advance its mission of promoting reputation, ethical leadership and global recognition.
Nominations for the 2027 100 Most Reputable Africans are ongoing.
Help us recognise the people shaping Africa’s future.
Nominate today: https://www.reputationpoll.com/reputation-form/
ABOUT THE GLOBAL REPUTATION FORUM
The Global Reputation Forum (GRF) is an international platform dedicated to promoting reputation, ethical leadership, institutional credibility and global recognition. Through strategic engagements, leadership dialogues, partnerships and recognition initiatives, the Forum celebrates individuals and institutions making meaningful contributions to society while encouraging a culture of integrity, accountability and excellence.

