By Tanisha Colon-Bibb.
(Johannesburg, South Africa – 31 March 2025) The third annual Global Freedom Fellowship (GFF), a pioneering initiative by Incarceration Nations Network (INN), concluded its 2025 program with a stirring farewell reception at the Nelson Mandela Foundation on Tuesday, March 25th.
The evening brought together justice advocates, policymakers, and community leaders to celebrate the resilience and impact of formerly incarcerated leaders from across the globe.
Hosted by actor Christopher Jaftha, the evening was a powerful testament to the importance of lived experience in justice reform. Each fellow had the opportunity to introduce themselves and share their personal journeys, highlighting both the diverse and interconnected struggles of justice-impacted individuals worldwide.
The event also featured music by DJ Charles Leonard and an emotive performance by Pearl Khumalo.
Ahead of the reception, the fellows toured the Nelson Mandela Foundation, immersing themselves in South Africa’s rich history of justice and resistance. The evening included remarks from INN Founder Dr. Baz Dreisinger and INN Project Leader Mthetheleli “MT” Ngxeke, reinforcing the organization’s ommitment to global justice reform.
Notable Guests & Announcements :The reception was attended by key figures in policy and advocacy, including:
● Sophia Berhie (U.S. Department of State)
● Pelmos Mashabela (Office of the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services)
● Koketso Moeti (Amandla – Action for Mzansi)
● Nabeelah Mia (Lawyers for Human Rights)
● Claire Mawisa (Social Advocate and co-host Carte Blanche)
Dr. Dreisinger announced the expansion of INN’s Education Not Incarceration work in South Africa via a new partnership with Boston City Campus, furthering opportunities for justice-impacted individuals to access higher education. Additionally, she revealed that for the next installment of GFF in 2026, GFF Consulting Agency will be launched and active Fellows from all three years of the GFF—46 formerly incarcerated leaders from 26 countries—will return to South Africa for a public-facing convening.
A Call to Action: Voices from the Fellowship
The impact of the Global Freedom Fellowship was reflected in the words of its participants: “Every child deserves the freedom to reach their full potential, whatever that may be. As a society, it is our responsibility to create an environment where every child is free to grow into the best version of themselves. This should be a fundamental right, not a privilege. Yet, for many, it remains just that, a privilege. I look forward to a world where this changes. Organizations like Global Freedom Fellowship are making a real difference by providing safe spaces and opportunities for those in need.” – Tricia Walsh, Proudly Māori, and grateful for the support of GFF.
“Let him who would move the world, first move himself.” – Socrates. “This quote has stayed with me, serving as a guiding light in my journey of self-discovery. During my time in prison, in the solitude of my cell, I found the person I thought I had lost. That realization gave me the strength to move forward. Global Freedom Fellowship has been a powerful force in that journey, pushing me closer to my passion and purpose. Their support has not only helped me rebuild but has also reinforced the importance of transformation and growth.” – Jazz Singh, Global Freedom Fellow.
Looking Ahead
As the Global Freedom Fellowship continues to expand, the program remains committed to amplifying the voices of formerly incarcerated leaders and driving systemic change in justice systems worldwide. The event served as both a celebration of progress and a rallying cry for continued advocacy.