Investing in the scholars who will study and serve our community.

Presented by the GABA Foundation in partnership with the Department of Africology and African American Studies at Eastern Michigan University, this scholarship honors academic excellence and community leadership across the diaspora.

Apply Now → About the Award

Applications close December 31, 2026

2027 Award

Akindele F. Akinyemi Global Achievement Scholarship

EMU Africology and African American Studies Track

$500One awardgiven this cycle

Eligibility

Who should apply

Currently enrolled in Eastern Michigan University's Department of Africology and African American Studies
Demonstrated academic excellence
Active engagement with Black communities across the diaspora
A vision for using your education to drive community impact

Why a Research Institute Funds Scholars

The next generation of diaspora research starts in the classroom.

This scholarship is one part of a growing partnership between the GABA Foundation and EMU's Department of Africology and African American Studies, connecting academic study with real-world community impact.

Community-based researchCollaborating on data collection and research about African and Caribbean nationals living in Michigan.

Policy engagementBringing scholarship to bear on immigration policy and the issues that shape our communities.

Student programmingCreating pathways for students to connect their studies to work in the community.

The GABA Foundation

Research and policy for the diaspora

An African Research Institute rooted in Michigan's diaspora community, committed to making diaspora data visible and actionable.

Eastern Michigan University

Department of Africology and African American Studies

An academic department dedicated to the scholarly study of African and African American experiences, history, culture, and contributions across the diaspora.

Award Recognition

Honored before the whole community.

The recipient will be formally recognized at the department's annual end-of-year celebration and awards ceremony in April. GABA Foundation leadership attends to present the award in person, before students, faculty, alumni, and community stakeholders. Applications close December 31, 2026, to allow time for review and selection before the ceremony.

How to Apply

Three steps to apply.

All applications are submitted through The GABA Network Portal. Create your free account to apply securely and track your status.

Create your account

Submit your application

Complete and submit your scholarship application in the portal.

Track your status

Follow your application and hear from our scholarship team.

Celebrating Grassroots Leadership and Service

Ready to apply?

This scholarship is an investment in the next generation of leaders across the diaspora. Applications close December 31, 2026.

Apply Through the Portal →

Questions? Email scholarships@thegabafoundation.org