Leadership, Learning & Growth: Why Join YALI?
The youth are the future, a common phrase that we should seek to debunk. But what better way to debunk this than through proactively engaging the youth in activities and programs that build their capacity to create sustainable solutions. The potential greatly expoused by the African youth is desirable. If you haven't had an opportunity to meet this potential and promise then there is somewhere some of us had a unique opportunity to experience it.
The YALI Regional Leadership Center EA is a unique program that brings together young leaders from 14 East and Central African countries. The youth are selected from three specific leadership tracks: Entrepreneurship, Civic Leadership and Public Management. Let me tell you (Maina) the moment you get the chance to meet these amazing leaders cutting across several languages, cultures, religions and various interesting food tastes the realization of what the future for Africa holds strikes home.
The focus on enabling young people build solutions within their communities through programs and not just events has been emphasized through the YALI program. This model can be replicated across several organizations, institutions and businesses. Appreciating the potential that young people have and offering them an opportunity to access the best possible knowledge, skills and competencies is a sure way to unlock what they hold.
About Author: Kevin Makova
One alumni writes:
"Arriving at Kenyatta University in the dead of night, I am immediately struck by the breathtaking beauty of the campus. Towering trees, with branches reaching out like welcoming arms, adorn the landscape, creating a sense of tranquility and serenity. As I make my way through the campus, I am mesmerized by the vast array of tree species, each one more captivating than the last. Despite the late hour, the vibrant energy of the university is palpable, filling me with a sense of excitement and anticipation for the YALI program ahead. In this moment, surrounded by the natural splendor of Kenyatta University, I am reminded of the endless possibilities that lie ahead on my journey as a young African leader."
The sense of anticipation and exhilaration among trainees—whether arriving by plane from outside Kenya or simply walking in from nearby locales like Kahawa Wendani—is palpable and difficult to articulate. Some arrive dressed in beautiful African attire, amazing suits or even casual jeans and t-shirts the diversity of experiences in the selected young leaders. They stroll in or ride through the gates of the institution with so much splendor. But that is just the beginning of a journey.
The 4-week experience takes the youth through several activities. A week-long bonding session at Lukenya for instance or a visit at some of the best companies like Microsoft provides clear insights in the realities of technology, fun, food and art. I forgot to mention the music but don't take it against me. The YALI RLC EA provides a proper opportunity to learn and grow collaboratively. The trainees are offered an opportunity to create solutions through design thinking, yes that is a real thing. A masterclass program is squeezed into a single week where learners become innovators within a few days. Most alumni narrate of how the sessions enabled them to create their projects and build real impact back home. Forezava for instance was conceptualized and imagined within the walls of the Chandaria Business Center.
The centers continues to offer leadership support through an alumni network. The network now at an amazing 5000+ membership offers real leverage for growth. A lot happens for us if we work together. The YALI Alumni Network of Kenya for instance has built a great platform for collaboration with similar networks in Rwanda, Central African Republic, Burundi, Uganda, South Sudan, Djibouti, Somalia among others. The networks created also go further to offer a platform for discussions on social, economic and political problems.
The YALI T-Fund is another creative support tool that enables alumni access resources for establishing solutions within their community. The fund an amazing collaboration between Kenyatta University and USAID a unique opportunity for alumni to innovatively build amazing organizations. We cannot forget to mention that Forezava has greatly benefited from this start-up support. Then there is the consistent follow-up to enable alumni organizations set up structures and processes.
We recognize this amazing opportunity we hope it should not pass you by. Take the leap of faith right now by applying to Cohort 55 and 56 of the Yali Regional Leadership Center East Africa. We will take initiative to organize info-sessions at the grassroots as well as create awareness on social media, dear alumni what shall you do?
Comments