The Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) West Africa Emerging Leaders Program is an initiative by the United States Government aimed at nurturing the next generation of African leaders. The program provides comprehensive sponsorship, covering all travel, visa, accommodation, and meal expenses for selected participants.
Location: Ghana
Category: Training | Fellowships
Eligible Countries: West African Nations
Benefits: Full Sponsorship | Accommodation | Travel Expenses
Application Deadline: August 18, 2024
Program Overview:
Africa is experiencing strong economic growth, increased investment opportunities, and advancements in governance and leadership. Supporting this momentum, the Accra Regional Leadership Centre (RLC) in Ghana offers a transformative leadership training program as part of the YALI initiative.
The program includes a 5-week intensive course focusing on:
- Core Courses:
- Leadership and Accountability
- Ethics
- Contemporary Issues Affecting Africa
- Elective Courses: Choose one from three themes:
- Entrepreneurship
- Public Policy and Management
- Civil Society Management
Training will take place both in-person at the Accra RLC and online, facilitated by experienced leaders from Africa and beyond, using innovative teaching methods to enhance the learning experience.
Eligibility Criteria:
The YALI Regional Leadership Center West Africa seeks dynamic young leaders based on merit. Applicants must:
- Be aged between 18 and 35 at the time of application.
- Be citizens and residents of Ghana, Nigeria, Togo, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Liberia, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, or Burkina Faso.
- Not hold U.S. citizenship or permanent residency.
- Be eligible for a Ghana visa.Have proficiency in English (reading, writing, listening, speaking).
Program Duration and Benefits:
The program spans 17 weeks and is divided into four phases:
- 5-Week Coursework: Delivered in-person or online.
- Mentorship Program: Participants engage in mentorship activities.
- Internship or Community Service: Hands-on experience in real-world scenarios.
- Report Writing: Documenting and presenting learned skills.
Participants receive certificates upon completion and join the esteemed YALI Alumni network. The training equips them with leadership skills essential for impacting their organizations and communities.
Selection Process:
Selection is based on merit and involves:
- Application Review: Initial screening by a selection panel.
- Interviews: Semi-finalists are interviewed for final selection.
Evaluation Criteria:
- Proven leadership in public service, business, entrepreneurship, or civic engagement.
- Active involvement in community service, volunteerism, or mentorship.
- Ability to collaborate in diverse groups and respect differing viewpoints.
- Strong communication and social skills.
- Positive and energetic attitude.
- Knowledge and professional experience in the chosen sector/track.
- Commitment to applying leadership skills to benefit one’s country or community post-program.
For more information and to apply, click here.