More than three decades ago, Liz Fanning’s experience as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Morocco set her on a path that would eventually lead to the founding of CorpsAfrica.

In the latest issue of WorldView magazine, Liz reflects on how her Peace Corps service (Morocco, 1993–1995) inspired a vision for empowering young Africans to serve their own countries and partner with communities to create lasting, community-led change.

“During my service, a young Moroccan woman asked me if she could be a Peace Corps Volunteer, and I had to say, ‘No, I’m sorry. It’s only for Americans.’ Her question dogged me for 20 years, because young Africans deserve the opportunity to help their own country. The Peace Corps model is the best for international development: living with people for a long period of time, eating what they eat, sleeping where they sleep, learning their language, and becoming part of the community by building trust and friendship. We launched CorpsAfrica on March 1, 2011, the 50th anniversary of the Peace Corps, as a way of celebrating its incredible success by passing the baton to young Africans.”

-Liz Fanning, Founder and CEO, CorpsAfrica

Since its start in Morocco in 2011, CorpsAfrica has evolved, placing over 1,700 volunteers in 11 countries across the African continent. CorpsAfrica Volunteers initially serve a one-year term in their home country, engaging in community-led development to implement small-scale, high-impact projects that are identified by the people.

We’re grateful to the National Peace Corps Association and WorldView magazine for sharing the story behind CorpsAfrica and the values of service that continue to guide our work.

Read the full WorldView magazine feature to learn more!