Mandela Washington Fellow Muhammed Finds Growth & Purpose at AAMU’s Inaugural Leadership Institute

As a proud host of the prestigious Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders, Alabama A&M University is playing a vital role in shaping the future of business and entrepreneurship across the African continent. This summer, AAMU welcomed 25 dynamic and accomplished Fellows to its first-ever Leadership in Business Institute, a six-week experience funded by the U.S. Department of State and designed to expand each participant’s leadership, financial, and social impact skills through immersive academic and cultural exchange.

Among the trailblazers is Raja’atu Muhammed, a social entrepreneur from Sokoto, Nigeria, whose work fuses culinary artistry with community transformation. As the Founder and CEO of Diary of a Northern Cook, Muhammed has spent the last four years growing a home-based food venture into a thriving social enterprise that feeds the underprivileged, empowers women and youth through culinary training, and champions emotional wellness through cooking therapy. Her soon-to-launch restaurant will be the first of its kind in Nigeria – offering not only authentic Northern Nigerian cuisine but also cooking sessions aimed at healing and personal growth.

Muhammed’s academic journey began with a degree in computer science education from Ahmadu Bello University and continued with two master’s degrees – in information technology and in guidance and counseling. Before launching her business full-time, she taught in local schools, developing strong communication and mentoring skills that now shape her leadership style.

She applied to the Mandela Washington Fellowship to gain the tools needed to expand her enterprise and formalize her innovative restaurant concept. More than just professional development, the Fellowship has provided a global platform to amplify her mission and deepen her impact at home.

“I cried, prayed, and danced all at once,” recalled Muhammed. “It was a surreal moment for me, my family, and my community.” While she previously hosted U.S. Ambassador Richard M. Mills Jr. in her home, Muhammed says being chosen as a Fellow was a milestone that affirmed her purpose on a global scale.

Her time at Alabama A&M – her first visit to both the United States and the state of Alabama – has been deeply transformative. “Every day feels like an adventure in learning, networking, and personal growth,” she said. “From business leadership and financial management to community engagement, the lessons I’m learning here are shaping how I approach the future of my business.”

In between classes and networking events, Muhammed has found joy in local culture – visiting the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, exploring farmers’ markets, and traveling to Birmingham, Montgomery, and Atlanta. While she admits she misses the flavors of home and the embrace of family, she’s adjusting well and soaking in every opportunity. “The people here are incredibly kind and generous. I’m impressed by the strong focus on community service, which aligns so well with my values.”

At AAMU, she has experienced a different style of learning – one that emphasizes innovation, dialogue, and leadership development. The diversity and energy of the campus have inspired her to think bigger and bolder.

When she returns to Nigeria, Muhammed plans to bring more than just memories. She will take home practical strategies for scaling her business, building new partnerships, and creating more sustainable community initiatives. “I hope to serve my community better and help others realize that food can be a powerful vehicle for change.”

Her long-term vision is ambitious and heartfelt: “My ultimate goal is to build Africa’s leading culinary social enterprise – one that uses food not only to nourish, but to heal, connect, and uplift entire communities.”

Reflecting on her journey, she added, “This Fellowship has reminded me that passion, when matched with purpose and the right support system, can create incredible change. I hope my story inspires others to follow their dreams, even if they seem unconventional.”