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Obama Foundation Summit

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November 18, 2018
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November 18-19, 2018

The 2018 Obama Foundation Summit has concluded. Thanks for tuning in! You can see video highlights below.

Video Highlights from the Summit

Obama Foundation 2018 Summit Highlights

This year’s Summit was a tribute to President Obama's longstanding belief that, no matter our backgrounds, we all share a desire to build a better future. Across three sessions, we were joined by incredible speakers including Advocate & Actress Janelle Monáe, U.S. Olympic Fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad, and Author Zadie Smith.

Updates from the Summit

I would be nothing without my community.

Diane Guerrero

We are in a space where at the end of the day, we see each other, we love each other, and we really do all want the same thing, which is love.

Karamo Brown

I can be anything I want to be. Education has changed my life. I believe that all girls should fight to get an education.

Kiran Sahu, A Member of the Global Girls Alliance

I’ve always had that feeling inside that I was fighting for anyone who has been told no.

Olympic Fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad

It doesn’t come easy. You have to fight for it. And none of us have to do it alone.

Janelle Monáe

A man with a medium skin tone is shown outside in front of boats looking forward toward the camera.

November 17, 2018

A Day in the Life: Harry Grammer

Obama Fellow Harry Grammer founded New Earth to help justice system-involved youth build a brighter future for themselves. See how he does it +

Hong Hoang smiles at a man as they walk down the sidewalk together.

November 16, 2018

A Day in the Life: Hong Hoang

For 20 years, Hong Hoang has mobilized youth leaders to push for environmental preservation. See how she’s taking her work to the next level as an Obama Foundation Scholar. Read more +

Asa Singleton

November 15, 2018

A Day in the Life: Asa Singleton

See how Asa Singleton, Youth Ambassador for MBK Houston and Summit attendee, is working towards a brighter future through boxing and community involvement. Read the full story +

This picture shows President Obama wearing a black suit and a white shirt
while standing in front of the Foundations logo, giving a presentation to various 
skin-toned people.

Unite a new generation of leaders to move us forward

November 12, 2018

Tell Us: How are you working towards a better future?

The theme of this year’s Summit is Common Hope. Uncommon Stories. Take a moment to think about how you’re working towards our shared hope: a better future for communities around the world. Add your voice

King Gyan plays soccer with one of his students.

November 13, 2018

A Day in the Life: King Gyan

Take a peek into the life of mentor, footballer, Africa Leader, and Summit attendee King Gyan. Read more +

Obama Foundation Summit Speakers and Attendees Include

President Obama speaking on a stage

President Barack Obama

44th President of the United States

A man with a light skin tone takes a picture in a background full of nature

Dave Eggers

Author

A professional headshot of a man with a medium skin tone

Harry Grammer

Fellow

A man with a deep skin tone takes a picture smiling

Karamo Brown

Host, Culture expert

A picture of a woman with a light skin tone and long hair

Lilly Singh

Comedian and YouTube Creator

A woman with a light skin tone takes a close up picture smiling

Hong Hoang

Scholar

A man with a deep skin tone takes a picture smiling while wearing business casual clothing

Asa Singleton

Youth Ambassador, MBK Houston

A woman with a light skin tone takes a close up picture

Zadie Smith

Author

A close up picture of  a woman with a medium-deep skin tone

Janelle Monáe

Singer-songwriter, Advocate and Actress

A male with a light skin tone takes a picture in front of a pride flag and the flag of Mexico

Danny Flores

Community Leadership Corps Columbia Member