Leadership Academy

Empowering the next generation of African leaders

The Leadership Academy is a program aimed at equipping young people across Africa with essential leadership, personal, and professional development skills.
Applications are open from the 1st of March till the 31st of March.

medium-shot-students-working-with-laptop

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Open to African youth aged 18–35 years old.
Applicants must be citizens of an African nation.
Must be passionate about leadership and personal development.
Ability to fully participate in the three-month virtual program from April to June 2025.
Must be proficient in English.
Must have access to an internet enabled device (laptop or smartphone) as well as access to the internet.

Program Overview

The Leadership Academy Program is designed to equip young people across the African continent with essential leadership, personal, and professional development skills. By integrating digital literacy, theoretical foundations, practical exposure, and peer-to-peer learning, the program empowers participants to become socially responsible leaders who create long-term impact in their communities.

The program is delivered over ten weeks through the YAM.edu platform, utilizing a self-paced model complemented by assignments, automated assessments, peer evaluations, facilitated virtual sessions, and personalized facilitator feedback. It also integrates the Inspiring Journeys Series, where guest speakers from diverse industries provide real-world leadership insights.

Program Objectives

Develop transformative leadership skills among African youth, emphasizing personal and professional growth.
Combine theoretical and practical learning experiences through interactive modules and virtual facilitated sessions.
Provide a comprehensive learning experience that fosters a lasting and positive impact on participants and their communities.

Program Experience

Our leadership program is designed to instill strong leadership qualities in participants, equipping them with the ability to lead and inspire others, encouraging a sense of responsibility and empathy.

Foundations of Transformative Leadership: Emphasizes developing the ability to inspire and motivate others, build trust, and navigate complex challenges. Through practical exercises, case studies, and reflective practices, learners gain the tools to become impactful leaders capable of driving meaningful transformation in their organizations and communities.
Visionary Thinking and Strategic Planning: Learners will focus on cultivating the essential skills for crafting a clear and inspiring vision, and translating that vision into actionable strategic plans to realize long term success.
Collaboration and Networking: Participants will learn how to build and maintain professional networks, navigate diverse perspectives, and create synergistic partnerships. Through practical exercises and real-world scenarios, learners will develop the ability to foster teamwork, enhance communication, and build strategic connections that drive personal and professional growth.

What is the Leadership Academy Program?

The Leadership Academy Program is a three-month virtual initiative designed to equip African youth with essential leadership, personal development, and professional skills. Through self-paced modules, interactive virtual sessions, and peer-to-peer learning, participants gain the tools needed to create positive change in their communities and advance their careers.
Who can apply for the Leadership Academy Program?

The program is open to African youth aged 18-35 years old, residing in and are citizens of Africa. Applicants should be post-secondary students, recent graduates, or early-career professionals with a passion for leadership, personal and professional development, and community development.
What is the duration of the program?

The program runs for three months, from April to June 2025, with a combination of self-paced learning and bi-weekly virtual facilitated sessions.
What are the technical requirements to participate?

Participants need access to a reliable internet connection and a device (laptop or smartphone) to engage with YAM-edu.com (the learning platform used for the leadership academy virtual program) and join virtual sessions.
What is the program structure?

Self-paced modules on key leadership topics such as adaptability, critical thinking, communication, and inclusivity. Bi-weekly facilitated virtual sessions for discussions, group work, and peer assessments. Assignments, and practical exercises to apply learning in real-world contexts. A final project and graduation ceremony to celebrate participants' achievements.
How much time do participants need to commit each week?

On average, participants should expect to dedicate 6-8 hours per week to complete self-paced modules, and assignments, and attend virtual sessions.
Is there a fee to participate in the program?

No, the Leadership Academy Program is completely free for selected participants.
What support is available to participants during the program?

Each participant will be assigned to a group with a dedicated facilitator who will provide guidance, monitor progress, and offer personalized feedback. There will also be support channels such as WhatsApp groups for easy communication.
What happens after the program ends?

Graduates of the program will receive a Certificate of Completion and have the opportunity to apply for the post-secondary program to support further education and the LCAP entrepreneurship programs to further their entrepreneurship journeys. Additionally, participants who implement their leadership skills through community or entrepreneurial projects may be invited to become facilitators for future program cycles.
How can I apply for the Leadership Academy Program?

You can apply to join the Virtual Leadership Academy by clicking Apply. Applications will open throughout the month of March 2025 and will close on 31st March 2025.
What are the key benefits of participating in the program?

Develop essential leadership and professional skills. Build a strong network of like-minded young leaders across Africa and the continent. Gain mentorship and feedback from experienced facilitators. Receive a Certificate of Completion and potential opportunities for continued education or entrepreneurial support.
Can I participate if I am working or studying full-time?

Yes, the program is designed to be flexible, with self-paced learning and evening virtual sessions to accommodate participants' existing commitments.
How can I stay informed about the program?

Follow Leading Change Africa on social media and subscribe to our newsletter to receive updates about the Leadership Academy Program and other opportunities! Or contact us at office@leading change-africa.org.