The Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) is the United States government’s signature effort to invest in the next generation of African leaders. The Accra Regional Leadership Centre (RLC) caters to 9 West African countries: Togo, Nigeria, Ghana, Ivory Coast, The Gambia, Burkina Faso, Liberia, Cameroon, and Sierra Leone. The RLC is hosted by the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA). The Center offers an innovative and game-changing leadership training program and develops the skills of young people so that they become the change they want to see in their communities.
The YALI Regional Leadership Center West Africa provides young African leaders who meet the above criteria with the necessary skills, tools, and opportunities to serve their organizations, communities, and countries better. Cohort 52 application which is currently open would offer in-person training in leadership for the Public Policy Management, Business and Entrepreneurship, and Civic Leadership track.
Eligibility Criteria:
You must be between the ages of 18 – 35
Must be a citizen of Ghana, Togo, Nigeria, Cameroon, Burkina Faso, Cote D’Ivoire, Liberia, Sierra Leone or The Gambia
Proficient in English language
A young person driving change within your organization, community or country
With demonstrated leadership capabilities and interest in Public Policy Management, Business and Entrepreneurship, and Civic Leadership
Applications are encouraged from:
Rural-based and economically disadvantaged young leaders
Young leaders living with disabilities
Women
Other minority groups
Program Details
Business and Entrepreneurship
This track caters to the range of emerging or aspiring entrepreneurs who expect to take on leadership roles within the private sector or build their own business ventures on the continent.
Civil Society Management
This track is oriented to those who are or aspire to be civically engaged and serve the public through non-governmental organizations, community-based organizations, or volunteerism.
Public Policy and Management
This track is tailored to those who work or aspire to work in any level of government (including elected positions), regional organizations such as the African Union or the West Africa Community, international organizations such as the United Nations, or other publicly minded organizations or think tanks
