NYU Wagner Student Jibreel Jalloh Selected as Obama Foundation Scholar

NYU Wagner student Jibreel Jalloh (MPA 2026) has been selected for the prestigious Obama Foundation Scholars program, recognizing his outstanding leadership in nonprofit advocacy. Jalloh, who is the first NYU student ever to be selected for the program, is the founder of The Flossy Organization, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering marginalized communities through civic training and grassroots mobilization.

Jalloh discovered the Obama Scholars program while researching graduate schools. “I was eager to expand my knowledge and scale The Flossy Organization,” he said. “The program provides a unique opportunity to connect with global leaders, deepen our impact, and, of course, meet President Barack Obama himself.”

Through The Flossy Organization, Jalloh aims to close the advocacy gap in underserved communities, drawing from his years of experience as a community organizer. The organization has already achieved significant success, including securing over $1 million  for anti-violence programs. Jalloh hopes to expand its work nationwide and internationally, with a long-term goal of establishing initiatives in Sierra Leone, the homeland of his parents.

During the Obama Scholars program, Jalloh plans to incorporate cutting-edge AI technology into The Flossy Organization’s programs. “Integrating AI in a responsible and ethical way is critical to advancing our advocacy efforts,” he explained.

Wagner’s curriculum has played a pivotal role in shaping Jalloh’s journey. He credits courses in nonprofit management, fundraising, and participatory policymaking with helping him build sustainable, community-driven programs. The support of Wagner faculty and the NYU Entrepreneurial Institute have been instrumental in his development as a leader. “The mentorship and resources I’ve received at Wagner have accelerated our growth and deepened my understanding of impactful, sustainable work,” Jalloh noted.

Jalloh’s selection as an Obama Scholar underscores his commitment to civic engagement and social justice. His participation in the program represents another milestone in his mission to create lasting change.