Deba Uwadiae Wins New American Leadership Academy Champion Award

The publisher of New Americans magazine, Deba Uwadiae has won the New American Leadership Academy Champion Award in recognition of his contributions to development across Columbus, Ohio, United States.

“NALA Champion Award to Deba Uwadiae for consistent dedication and effectively branding and championing the visibility of New American Leaders and Initiatives across Columbus,” announced Abdi Soofe, New American Program Coordinator, City of Columbus Department of Neighborhoods at the NALA 2026 Annual Reception on Saturday, September 12, 2026.

Other awardees at the 2026 reception included Reynoldsburg City Council President, Bhuwan Pyakurel and Alma  Rosa Diaz, Founder of Alianza 614, who received Outstanding Leadership.

The New American Leadership Academy is a leadership and professional development program held by the Department of Neighborhoods. The program empowers individuals to become advocates for their communities.

“By empowering New American leaders, we can ensure that everyone has a voice for their community,” said Kym Douglas, Director of the Department of Neighborhoods.

“Congratulations to all the awardees,” said Councilmember Nancy Day-Achauer.

“I am grateful for the award. I thank the City of Columbus Department of Neighborhoods for promoting the New American Initiative program that established the New American Leadership Academy. Thanks to the management team led by the Director, Kym Douglas with Abdi Soofe and Lindora Kolu Howard-Diawara. I thank my family members who are always there supporting and everyone that has been there from the beginning.”

Bhuwan Pyakurel and Alma  Rosa Diaz  expressed appreciation for the awards, thanking the City of Columbus Department of Neighborhoods for supporting the new American community in Columbus.

Members of the Steering Committee of the New American Leadership Academy alumni were elected at the reception including Njeri Mbure, Miriam Tesfai, Musa Dampha, Teresa Temu, Dr. Ahcene Zerrouk, Edward Soumaila, Dr. Lola Frazier, Alpha Tongor and Telahum Tesfave.