Empowering Africa’s Future Leaders: YALI’s Call for Applications
Dear YALI Network Member,
The Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) is on a mission to invest in the next generation of African leaders, and you could be one of them. The YALI Regional Leadership Center Southern Africa (RLC SA), hosted by the University of South Africa at the Graduate School of Business Leadership in Midrand, South Africa, is at the forefront of this transformative endeavour. This initiative seeks to nurture critical thinkers, foster innovative and entrepreneurial thinking, and promote cross-border communication and multicultural collaboration. The RLC SA equips young African leaders with the knowledge and skills they need to make a significant impact on their communities and countries.
The YALI RLC SA
The YALI RLC SA doesn’t just aim to produce leaders; it aspires to create change agents who can tackle multifaceted, multidisciplinary challenges effectively. To achieve this, the centre provides comprehensive training in contemporary African issues and specialized training in three key areas:
- Business and Entrepreneurship: This track equips participants with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the business world, fostering the development of innovative and sustainable ventures.
- Civic Leadership: Civic leaders play a crucial role in driving change at the community level. This track empowers individuals to become effective advocates for social and political transformation.
- Public Management: Public sector leaders are vital for the effective governance of nations. This track focuses on imparting the knowledge and skills required to excel in roles of public service.
Are You Eligible?
To join the ranks of YALI Network members who are making a difference in their communities, you must meet the following criteria:
- Age (18-35): YALI seeks young leaders with fresh perspectives and boundless energy.
- Demonstrated Commitment: If you are committed to making a positive impact in your community, country, and the African continent, this program is for you.
- Proven Experience: Successful applicants will have a track record in one of the following areas: Public Management, Business, Entrepreneurship, or Civic Leadership.
- Citizenship: You must hold citizenship in one of the following countries: Angola, Botswana, Comoros, Lesotho, Malawi, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia, or Zimbabwe.
- Commitment: Are you prepared to dedicate yourself to a two-week online and three-week residential program?
- English Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English is essential to ensure effective communication and participation in the program.
Inclusivity is Our Priority
The YALI RLC SA is committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity. We welcome applications from the following groups:
- Rural-Based and Economically Disadvantaged Young Leaders: We believe in levelling the playing field and giving everyone a chance to excel.
- Young Leaders with Disabilities: Your unique perspectives and experiences are valued and essential to our shared future.
- Women: Empowering women is a cornerstone of our mission. We encourage women to apply and take their rightful place as leaders.
- People Living with HIV/AIDS: Your strength and resilience inspire us, and we invite you to be part of our journey.
- LGBTIQ Advocates: We stand with those who represent and advocate for the rights of LGBTIQ communities across the region.
- Other Minority Groups: We embrace diversity in all its forms and invite all minority groups to participate.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
The opportunity to be part of Cohort 23, a hybrid program with both online and in-resident components (11 Mar – 22 Mar 2023 online, and 08 Apr – 26 Apr 2024 in-resident), and Online Cohort 19, a fully online program (26 Feb – 12 Apr 2023), is open for application until 11 November 2023 (23:59 South Africa Standard Time).
If you’re passionate about becoming a leader who can change Africa’s future, the YALI RLC SA is the place to start your journey. Apply now and be part of a community of like-minded individuals who are dedicated to making a difference.