Dr. Leoma Gilley Empowers African Communities Through Expanded Language Preservation Initiative

Dr. Leoma Gilley, a distinguished linguist and educator, is expanding her vital mission to preserve African languages and cultural identities through the Institute for the Development of Languages and Translation in Africa (iDELTA). For Dr. Gilley, language preservation is a spiritual imperative, upholding the inherent dignity and voice of communities, a commitment forged over decades of dedicated service across the continent.

The iDELTA program, developed under SIL Global, is a bachelor-level initiative empowering Africans to lead their own language development and translation efforts. This strategy ensures long-term sustainability by building local capacity, reducing reliance on external support. Upcoming sessions include an English Academic Course in Nairobi, Kenya (June 8-July 31, 2026), and a French program in Yaoundé, Cameroon (October 12-December 4, 2026).

Through its multi-year curriculum, iDELTA students gain expertise in language, literacy, and translation, applying skills directly within communities. Dr. Gilley emphasizes language as fundamental for understanding truth, connection, and faith. Her vision, refined over two decades in Africa, focuses on ensuring this crucial work belongs to and is carried forward by the people themselves, preserving invaluable cultural heritage.