The E.L.L.A. Award is inspired by a West African (Adinkra) symbol for the expression "Nea ope se obedi hene daakye no, firi ase sue som ansa." Translated it means: He who wants to be king in the future must first learn to serve." It is a symbol of service and leadership, appropriately imbuing the spirit of The E.L.L.A. Award.

What some view as an arrow pointing downward has a negative connotation in corporate America. However, as a symbol to inspire corporate community involvement, it serves as a reminder that initiatives must reach into communities for efficacy.

"Increasingly, doing well is a result of doing good."