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With the nation roiled in controversy over immigration, California offers a case study in how changing demographics and evolving attitudes can reframe the issue over time.

Which is better, education or experience? How about both? For Sudanese activist Mutasim Ali, the next stop in his quest for knowledge and influence is a second law degree in the U.S.

President Trump鈥檚 immigration policy may seem like a deal breaker for Hispanic voters.聽But for many Venezuelan and Cuban immigrants in Florida, fears of socialism聽could tip the state in his favor.

For populist governments dealing with shrinking populations, the fastest way to grow 鈥� immigration 鈥� isn't seen as viable. But convincing women to have more children is easier said than done.

Humorist James Thurber is often associated with New York, but his formative years in Columbus, Ohio, helped shape his approach to writing and drawing.聽Do hometowns mold an artist 鈥� or vice versa?

One turnaround story to watch in Africa these days is Gambia. Three years ago, the small West African state ousted a corrupt regime. It has since greatly improved its democratic governance. In a new survey by Transparency International, more than half of Gambians say their government is doing a good job in the fight against corruption. By contrast, more than half of all Africans say corruption is getting worse in their country.

鈥淎fter 22 years of patrimonial rule, where the misuse of state resources was normal, Gambians seem to have placed their trust on their new democratically elected representatives, who have vowed to uphold political integrity and deliver results for ordinary citizens,鈥� concludes Transparency International.

Gambia鈥檚 relative success helps break the myth that corruption in Africa is endemic. In fact, the same survey reveals this note of progress: 53% of Africans believe ordinary people can make a difference in the fight against corruption.

The few African countries doing well against corruption, such as Gambia and Mauritius (which has the lowest bribery rate) can serve as role models. Yet other factors, such as new digital watchdog tools and a rising middle class, also account for the new optimism that individuals can bring about honest and accountable leadership.

The most important factor is integrity in the election process. Only 41%聽of citizens are satisfied with how democracy works in their country. The survey found 15% of Africans have been offered a financial incentive to vote for a particular party or candidate.

Still, says Richard Jurgens, editor of Africa in Fact, Africans鈥� approval of their leaders has slightly increased over the past 20 years. He cites better economies, internet activism, and urbanization as reasons. These trends compel citizens to ask questions about the motives of officials. They expose 鈥渃racks in leadership capabilities, the quality of public administration, inconsistencies in the rule of law and breaches of basic liberties,鈥� he writes.

Africa is home to many of the world鈥檚 most corrupt nations. Yet 鈥渘aming and shaming鈥� countries or their leaders may not be enough. One alternative is to 鈥渘ame and frame鈥� examples of success. Gambia is now one. The speed of its turnaround sends a message of a new moral norm. Just knowing what is both good and possible can motivate Africans to expect better of themselves and their leaders.