Oprah Winfrey scholar Aniaba Jean-Baptiste N’guessan, ‘26. Mr. N’guessan is a fourth year Economics, Computer Science, and Mathematics triple major from Côte d’Ivoire.
Born and raised in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, Aniaba’s academic journey began at the African Leadership Academy in Johannesburg, South Africa, before bringing him to Morehouse—which he fondly calls the "African American Leadership Academy." At Morehouse, Aniaba has developed into a leader deeply invested in the advancement of the global Black community, particularly through education, economic development, and cross-cultural coalition formation.
Aniaba has participated in transformative study abroad experiences in Panamá and the United Kingdom, where he explored Afro-diasporic culture, history, and identity. His time in Panamá, in particular, deepened his understanding of the historical presence and contributions of Africans in Latin America, reinforcing his mission to bridge African and Afro-diasporic communities worldwide. His reflections on language, cultural identity, and economic systems, shaped by his travels, continue to influence his advocacy for sustainable development and education in the Global South.
A proud Oprah Winfrey Scholar, Aniaba has served as president of the Morehouse International Students Organization for the past two years, providing support to students from Kenya, Senegal, Cameroon, Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, and France to ensure that international students have access to the social, emotional, and professional resources needed for success at Morehouse and beyond.
Having lived and studied in diverse environments, these experiences fuel his lifelong commitment to opening schools in the Global South—institutions that will identify, develop, and connect young leaders across the region to tackle its most pressing challenges. Aniaba’s journey is a testament to the power of education, cultural exchange, and strategic leadership in shaping a more connected and empowered global Black community.
Aniaba shared reflections from his most recent study abroad experience with the MPAGE Panama Program here.