The Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) is a signature effort to invest in the next generation of African leaders. The need to invest in grooming strong, results-oriented leaders comes out of the statistics: nearly 1 in 3 Africans are between the ages of 10 and 24, and approximately 60% of Africa’s total population is below the age of 35.

Who will empower and lead these young Africans? Who will shape the future of business and entrepreneurship, civic leadership, and public management? In order to answer these questions, YALI promotes three models designed to identify and empower young leaders: the YALI Mandela Washington Fellowship, YALI Network, and now the establishment of Regional Leadership Centers across Africa.

Who can apply?

The Young African Leaders Initiative is open to young African leaders aged 18 – 35 years old depending on their level of experience and tracks record in their chosen sector. Participants must meet the following criteria:

• Age (18-35).
• English language proficiency.
• Portuguese-speaking participants will be accommodated in the Mozambique Hub at UEM.
• A commitment to positively impact Africa, their own countries as well as communities.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and interest in Public Management, Entrepreneurship Development, and Civic Leadership.
• Commitment to serving the development agenda of the African continent.

Eligible Countries

Young leaders from the following countries are eligible to participate in the program: Angola, Botswana, Comoros, Lesotho, Malawi, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Kingdom of Eswatini, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Requirements

• A proven record of leadership in public service, business and entrepreneurship, or civic engagement. They can be new entrants in public and private service institutions looking to develop their leadership abilities.
• Proven record of knowledge, interest, and professional experience in the sector/track selected.
• Proven record of active engagement in public or community service, volunteerism, or mentorship.
• Selected participants applying for the contact session must be willing to travel to the RLC SA in Midrand, Johannesburg or Maputo for the duration of the program.
• A commitment to apply leadership skills and training to benefit your country and/or community after the program.

 Apply for YALI Program