Presidential Precinct Partner AECOM's Tom Bayer Speaks at Africa Business Forum

AECOM continues to support the development of Africa’s infrastructure with participation in a panel discussion focusing on improving the continent’s prospects for economic development, attracting foreign investment and growing employment.

AECOM’s Tom Bayer, director, global support services, recently participated in a panel discussion at the Africa Business Forum held by the Presidential Precinct in Virginia, United States. The conference was part of the Mandela Washington Fellowship, the flagship program for the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) which was launched by U.S. President Barack Obama in 2010 and is supported by AECOM.

The Presidential Precinct is a non-profit organization that links emerging leaders and proponents of democracy with two universities and three U.S. presidencies. Through education, collaboration and global networking, YALI supports young leaders as they spur growth, strengthen democratic governance and enhance peace and security across Africa.

The business forum, held at the University of Virginia, featured discussions on improving Africa’s prospects for economic development, attracting foreign investment and growing employment. Bayer spoke during a panel on the topic of infrastructure and resources.

“Many regions in Africa are seen as emerging countries with opportunity for growth, but we still have obstacles to overcome throughout much of the continent,” said Bayer. “With its governance and economic revitalization initiatives, AECOM continues to support the development of Africa’s infrastructure and we know the future is bright with this next generation of leadership.”

In March, Bayer joined Hugh Doyle, executive vice president, global support services, as representatives at an international conference hosted by the Presidential Precinct where AECOM was praised for its support of YALI.

“AECOM’s investment has played a crucial role in helping the Presidential Precinct promote innovation, growth, peace and security around the world through programs like YALI,” said Neal Piper, managing director of the Presidential Precinct. “Tom Bayer’s expertise and global perspective was key to the success of the Africa Business Forum and Economic Development Conference we hosted earlier this year.”

In an effort to help guide Africa’s most-promising young leaders, AECOM supported YALI in 2014 financially and by hosting networking and mentoring events. Visit AECOM.com to learn more about AECOM’s support of the initiative.