Innovator
Intrapreneur
Catalyst

At the heart of every initiative, Carl is focused on people, creating pathways for communities to grow, thrive and lead lasting change.

About Carl

INSIDE THE BLUEPRINT PODCAST

HOSTED BY CARL & CLAIRE MANLAN

Blueprints for change

View All

Economic Development & Financial Inclusion

Read More

African Leadership & Governance

Read More

Youth and Human
Capital

Read More

Timeline

  • 1978
  • 1993 – 1996
  • 1999-2002
  • 2009
  • 2012
  • 2012
  • 2012–2014
  • 2014
  • 2014
  • 2015
  • 2015
  • 2020
  • 2020
  • 2021
  • 2025

  • Born and raised in Côte d’Ivoire

  • Attended High School at Lycée classique d'Abidjan

  • Attended the University of Cape Town, South Africa Political Philosophy and Economics

  • Married Lelani a quiet constant in a journey shaped by purpose, partnership, and presence.

  • Graduated from Harvard University Kennedy School of Government (Master’s in Public Administration)

  • Welcomed our first child Claire, a moment that deepened my perspective on legacy, responsibility, and the future.

  • Served as Fund Portfolio Manager at The Global Fund leading critical data-driven health interventions to fight AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria.

  • Awarded the prestigious Mo Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship recognizing outstanding leadership and commitment to Africa’s progress.

  • Welcomed our son, Liam further grounding my commitment to shaping a future worth inheriting.

  • Played a key role in the "Africa Against Ebola Solidarity Trust" mobilizing 9,000 health workers for Ebola relief in Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone.

  • Awarded Chevalier de l’ordre national du mérite du Benin one of Benin’s highest civilian honors, for contributions in health and social impact.

  • Honored among "African Silent Heroes" for impactful, behind-the-scenes leadership.

  • Received Euromoney Award for Excellence recognizing innovative leadership in financial inclusion and social impact.

  • Relocated to Dubai, joining Visa as Vice President, Inclusive Impact for Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa, further expanding his global impact initiatives.

  • Launched Inside the Blueprint A podcast co-hosted with his daughter Claire, bridging intergenerational dialogue on human sustainability, leadership, and impact.

In The News


latest articles, media features, and interviews

View All

Digital Scrapbook

  • CIV won the African Cup of Nations and I was in the stadium for this miracle

    It is not because you do not see anything that nothing is happening. African proverb – Abidjan

    Lycée Classique d’Abidjan. The place where I finished high school. https://fr.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lyc%C3%A9e_classique_d%27Abidjan The motto of the school is “Cherche Trouve et jamais n’abandonne” – Search Find and never give up

    Boston – Rediscovering the city with the family

    When fashion is covid statement

    Dakar – committed to support communities fighting against neglected tropical diseases