Applications are now closed for the Young Political Leadership School of Africa, Cohort 13.
WE ARE CREATING THE NEXT- GENERATION OF CHARACTER-DRIVEN
AFRICAN LEADERS.
YPLS Africa combines political education, practical engagement, mentorship, networking, and sustained leadership support to prepare emerging young politicians and civic leaders for meaningful roles in democratic governance across Africa. The program model combines intensive training, mentorship, internships, regional networking, and post-training civic engagement.
1. One-Week Leadership and Political Education Convening
Participants take part in an intensive one-week convening focused on four strategic areas:
-
Democratic Governance and Ethical Leadership
-
Political Participation, Power, and Leadership Pathways
-
Civic Engagement, Advocacy, Policy Influence, and Digital Democracy
-
Youth, Peace, Security, and Political Tolerance
Learning is delivered through facilitated discussions, practical exercises, peer learning, and reflection, with connections to Agenda 2063 and relevant African Union Shared Values instruments.
2. Practicum: Post-Program Civic and Political Action
Participants return to their countries and communities to translate learning into action through policy dialogues, town hall meetings, debates, civic education, media engagements, digital campaigns, peacebuilding activities, and grassroots civic and political participation.
This phase ensures that learning moves beyond the convening and produces visible community and democratic impact.
3. Legislative Internship, LEAD Mentorship, and Alumni Support
Participants gain access to the Legislative Internship Program, providing practical exposure to legislative and public leadership processes, and the LEAD Mentorship Program, an online mentorship platform connecting participants with experienced leaders and professionals.
These opportunities are complemented by alumni engagement, peer learning, and continued leadership support to strengthen long-term leadership readiness and ethical public service.
4. Pan-African Participation and Networking
YPLS Africa brings together emerging political and civic leaders from across the continent, fostering cross-country learning, collaboration, political tolerance, relationship-building, and a shared commitment to democratic governance and The Africa We Want.
The Pan-African network remains central to the program’s long-term impact, creating relationships and collaborations that continue well beyond the convening.