Empowering Liberia’s Youth: Crafting a Future of Skills, Innovation, and Progress using a Comprehensive Youth Development Strategy

In the mosaic of nations, Liberia stands as a canvas awaiting the vibrant strokes of progress and innovation, with its youth poised to be the skilled artists shaping the masterpiece of the future. As we navigate the challenges faced by Liberian youth—escalating unemployment, pervasive poverty, limited access to quality education, and health concerns—it becomes increasingly evident that the true wealth of this nation lies not just in its abundant resources but, crucially, in the skills of its youth. The adage, “Empower the youth with skills today, and they will build a better world tomorrow,” resonates profoundly in the Liberian context, where the transformative potential of investing in youth development and empowerment is immeasurable.

Recent data from the World Bank’s “ILO Modelled Estimates and Projections database (ILOEST) – ILOSTAT,” accessed on September 05, 2023, reveals a pressing need for immediate action. Liberia’s youth unemployment rate has surged to a concerning 3.60% (about 25%), underscoring a formidable barrier to the realization of individual aspirations and national progress. In light of this, it becomes imperative to respond to the call to action embedded in the wisdom that “Skills are bridges that connect dreams to reality, and today we honor the youth as master bridge builders.” The narrative must undergo a transformative shift, pivoting from the stark realities of high unemployment rates to recognizing the untapped potential that awaits liberation. This shift in perspective is not just an aspiration; it is a pragmatic necessity to harness the skills and capabilities of Liberia’s youth for a brighter and more prosperous future.

This article endeavors to propose innovative approaches and policy recommendations, in line with international best practices, to empower Liberia’s youth. Grounded in the conviction that “Skills are like seeds; when nurtured, they grow into mighty trees of expertise. Let’s nurture the skills of our youth,” the strategies outlined herein aim not only to address immediate concerns but also to cultivate a sustainable ecosystem where the youth flourish as agents of positive change.

Key Policy Recommendations on Addressing Unemployment:

1. Skills Development Programs: Integrate sustainable agro-business training programs to equip youth with agricultural skills. This not only addresses unemployment but also contributes to food security and sustainable farming practices.
2. Entrepreneurship Support: Foster entrepreneurship in agro-business by establishing incubation centers and providing financial support for youth-led agricultural startups. Encouraging innovation in sustainable farming techniques can enhance productivity and market access.
3. ICT Integration: Infuse Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into agricultural practices to enhance efficiency and market connectivity. Digital platforms can provide real-time market information, facilitate e-commerce for agricultural products, and empower youth in rural areas.

Key Policy Recommendations on Combating Poverty and Illiteracy:

1. Education Reforms: Expand education reforms to include agricultural curricula, emphasizing sustainable farming practices and agro-business management. Scholarships and incentives can be targeted toward students pursuing studies in agriculture.
2. Social Protection Programs: Strengthen social protection programs with a focus on rural communities. Implement initiatives that provide financial support to families engaged in sustainable agro-business, linking poverty reduction efforts with agricultural development.

Key Policy Recommendations on Addressing Health and Social Issues:

1. Comprehensive Sexual Education: Enhance sexual education programs to incorporate information on the link between health and sustainable agriculture. Emphasize the importance of responsible behavior and its positive impact on individual well-being and community development.
2. Youth Health Clinics: Integrate health services into agro-business initiatives, ensuring that youth-friendly health clinics are accessible in rural areas. This holistic approach addresses both health and economic challenges simultaneously.

Key Policy Recommendations on Promoting Sustainable Energy, Land Rights, Forestry, Fishers, and Blue Innovation:

1. Sustainable Energy Integration: Integrate sustainable energy solutions into rural communities, promoting clean and renewable sources. This not only addresses energy challenges but also contributes to environmentally sustainable agro-business practices.
2. Land Rights and Forestry: Strengthen land rights for youth engaged in agriculture, ensuring secure tenure. Implement sustainable forestry practices and incentivize reforestation efforts, aligning with international conservation goals.
3. Blue Innovation for Fisheries:  Promote blue innovation by supporting sustainable fisheries practices. Empower young fishers with modern techniques, ensuring the long-term viability of marine resources.

Key Policy Recommendations on Education, Employment, and Empowerment (3Es Initiatives):

1. Integrated 3Es Initiatives: Develop integrated initiatives that combine education, employment, and empowerment. For instance, establish vocational training centers in rural areas, providing education in sustainable agro-business and related skills.
2. Youth Employment Schemes: Implement targeted youth employment schemes in key sectors, including agriculture, energy, and ICT. Encourage public-private partnerships to create sustainable job opportunities.

Key Policy Recommendation on International Collaboration:

1. Global Partnerships for Sustainable Development: Actively engage with international partners, NGOs, and global initiatives focusing on sustainable development. Collaboration can bring in expertise, funding, and shared best practices to enhance the impact of youth development initiatives.

Significance of Prioritizing a Comprehensive Youth Development Strategy:

Prioritizing a Comprehensive Youth Development Strategy for Liberia is not just a policy imperative; it is an investment in the nation’s future prosperity, resilience, and sustainability. The youth represent the dynamic force capable of propelling Liberia towards progress and innovation. By strategically investing in their development, the nation not only addresses immediate challenges but also lays the foundation for long-term socio-economic transformation.

1. Human Capital Development: Youth development is pivotal for building a robust human capital base, fostering a skilled and adaptable workforce. As skills become the currency of success in the 21st century, a well-developed youth population enhances Liberia’s competitiveness in the global arena.
2. Social Cohesion and Stability: An empowered and engaged youth population contributes to social cohesion and stability. By addressing unemployment, poverty, and inequality, a Comprehensive Youth Development Strategy mitigates the risk of social unrest and creates a conducive environment for sustainable peace and prosperity.
3. Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Prioritizing youth development nurtures a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. As the youth are encouraged to think creatively and explore new avenues, they become catalysts for economic growth, job creation, and technological advancement.
4. Global Competitiveness: Nations that invest in their youth elevate their global standing. A well-educated, skilled, and empowered youth population attracts foreign investments, fosters international collaborations, and positions Liberia as a competitive player in the global market.
5. Long-Term Economic Impact: While immediate gains are essential, the long-term economic impact of a focused youth development strategy is profound. The dividends from a skilled, healthy, and innovative youth population continue to pay off over time, ensuring sustained economic growth and development.

Conclusion:

As Liberia charts its course forward, it is imperative to prioritize a Comprehensive Youth Development Strategy for Liberia to resonates as an investment in the nation’s future prosperity. The proposed policy recommendations are not just a prescription but a roadmap to unleash the latent potential of Liberia’s youth. By integrating skills development, educational reforms, entrepreneurship support, and holistic health initiatives, Liberia can foster a generation equipped to lead in the global landscape. These policy measures, when implemented, will not only address immediate challenges but also cultivate a resilient and innovative society. As Liberia navigates the path forward, it is crucial to recognize that the true wealth of the nation lies in the skills and aspirations of its youth. Through strategic investments and a commitment to empowering the next generation, Liberia can forge a path towards sustainable development and progress.

ABOUT THE WRITER:

Joseph M D Johnson, born in Yekepa, Liberia, has spent over two decades navigating life as a refugee and currently resides in Monrovia. As the National Program Coordinator and UNDP Focal Point for YouthConnekt Africa Hub, he leads initiatives empowering 2.8 million Liberian youth through socio-economic transformation under the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Republic of Liberia.

Joseph’s journey has been marked by resilience, dedication, and a deep commitment to creating positive change in the lives of young people. His work within the YouthConnekt Africa Hub reflects his unwavering passion for youth empowerment and his belief in the potential of every individual to contribute to the development of their communities and nation.

With a steadfast focus on socio-economic transformation, Joseph has implemented a range of impactful initiatives that aim to provide Liberian youth with the necessary tools and resources to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Through strategic partnerships, innovative programs, and a holistic approach to empowerment, he has been instrumental in fostering a supportive environment where young people can cultivate their skills, pursue their aspirations, and shape their own futures.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Joseph remains deeply connected to his roots and is dedicated to uplifting the voices of his fellow Liberians. His multifaceted role as a leader, advocate, and catalyst for change exemplifies his unwavering dedication to the betterment of society, serving as a source of inspiration for others to join him in the pursuit of a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

Joseph’s impact extends far beyond the borders of Liberia, resonating across the African continent and beyond. His remarkable journey embodies the resilience and strength of the human spirit, illuminating the transformative power of unwavering determination and the unwavering effort to empower the youth in pursuit of a brighter tomorrow.

As a dedicated Peace Ambassador, Corporate Development Consultant, Student-At-Law, Motivational Speaker, and a trained Career Diplomat in Diplomacy and Contemporary International Relations, Joseph has championed youth development in diverse African nations, including the Gambia, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Egypt, Ghana, Nigeria, and Kenya. His impactful journey continues to inspire thousands of young individuals, helping them discover their life’s purpose, unlock their full potential, and maximize their capabilities. Joseph is fervently committed to fostering positive change, promoting equitable inclusion, advocating for social justice, and supporting good governance. He takes pride in his mother land and making meaningful contribution to his County, Liberia.

Call for African Youth Charter Hustlers

Join The Movement of Youth-Led Accountability

Welcome to my blog and I hope you’ll maximize this opportunity as an African Youth Charter Hustler!

26 March 2020, AU Headquarters, Addis Ababa – The African Union Office of the Youth Envoy launches a new initiative to empower a movement of Pan-African youth advocates.The initiative will engage two Hustlers per country, young male and female over a period of two years to lead continental, regional and national advocacy and accountability for the ratification and implementation of the African Youth Charter including progressive youth policies, youth funds and youth inclusion as well as the institution of effective monitoring and reporting mechanisms.

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, we remain committed to advocating for the contribution and central role of young people to reform our institutions and transform our systems to work for our generation. Article 17 of the African Youth Charter on Health, guarantees the right of African youth to enjoy the best attainable state of physical, mental and spiritual health and institution of programmes to address health pandemics in Africa.

What is This Initiative? 

As mandated by the Chairperson of the African Union Commission H.E, Moussa Faki, the African Union Youth Envoy published 2019/20 Action Plan. The Action Plan, under the Advocacy Model, seeks to mobilize the African Youth Charter (AYC) Hustlers, to lead continental, regional and national advocacy for the ratification and implementation of the Charter as well as the institution of effective monitoring and reporting mechanisms.

This is in line with the AUC’s 1 Million by 2021 Initiative, which seeks to provide opportunities for African youth in the game-changing areas of employment, education, entrepreneurship and engagement (4Es). Under the engagement pillar, the initiative seeks to create meaningful platforms for youth to drive change in their environments. The AYC Hustlers initiative provides an opportunity for youth-led advocacy and youth-led accountability, and ensures results on continental commitments to their development.

The flagship initiative is spear-headed by the AU Office of the Youth Envoy (OYE), with the support of Youth Division of the AUC Department of Human Resources, Science and Technology (HRST), and in collaboration with the Regional Economic Communities (RECs), seeking to engage young Africans as African Youth Charter Hustlers. The AYC Hustlers initiative will engage two mobilizers per country, one male and one female for a period of two years.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must;

• Be national of the 55 member states of the African Union
• Be aged 18-33 years old (as of 21 April 2020)
• Have demonstrated advocacy results and impact in their work
• Be committed to volunteer for two years to hustle for the Charter

Deadline 

20 April 2020

For Questions please contact hello@auyouthenvoy.org

Apply Now:

https://auyouthenvoy.org/aych/

Kofi Annan: Statement of Condolence

Words can’t express how saddened I am to hear that Kofi Annan have left the stage of time. I once read that, “There are things that we don’t want to happen but have to accept, things we don’t want to know but have to learn, and people we can’t live without but have to let go.”

Personally, as a young Pan Africanist I have always been an admirer of Kofi Annan. One thing I have always questioned was how he transcended as a ‘black man’ to champion diplomacy, sound leadership and Good Governance at the global level. His ability to create a space of influence served as my greatest motivation. He championed the empowerment of young people at the forefront of global change and innovation as key agents for development and peace.

According to him, “Young people should be at the forefront of global change and innovation. Empowered, they can be key agents for development and peace. If, however, they are left on society’s margins, all of us will be impoverished. Let us ensure that all young people have every opportunity to participate fully in the lives of their societies.”

It was Christian Bovee who once console saying, “Tearless grief bleeds inwardly.” Words are never adequate in moments like these in mourning a great son of the African soil. Kofi Annan was a general of perseverance, a captain of negotiation, a genius of international relations, and a hero in promoting world peace, youth development and innovation.

He leaves behind a unique family and a new generation of youth challenged by his distinguished legacy of determination for peace and selflessness with matchless dignity and integrity. The universe will miss a great soul.

Joseph M D Johnson

Young Diplomat & Peace Ambassador

YALI Fellow/AU YVC

Republic of Liberia

E: josephmdjohnsonsr@hotmail.com

M: +231 886 26 2676

P: +231 775 26 2676

Peace Poem: Liberia Election Is Not Violence

Written by Joseph M D Johnson | Young Diplomat, Advocate & Classic Poet, Republic of Liberia | 18.10.17

Oh Peace! Peace, Peace, Peace!

Peace for the old and young Liberians

Peace for the bold and strong Liberians

From River Gee through Grand Bassa to Cape Mount

More peace for all to count

 

Peace in our national election

Peace towards our traditional celebration;

Free from lies, unforgiveness, hatred and corruption

Overflowing with love, forgiveness and reconciliation

Not the violence from tribalism

But the love for true patriotism

 

Election is not for violence of war

Election is not of violence for power

Election is not for violence to fear

Election is not for violence of death

Election is not for violence of revenge to theft

 

Election is for unity and prosperity

From South-eastern Liberia to Nimba with peaceful serenity

Election is for voting for generation’s longevity

Election is for national peace with beautiful harmony

Election is for citizens to enjoy peace so sweet as honey

Election is telling the truth and making good choices not Cunning

 

We find no peace in violence

We find more peace in unity and credence

A peace that sees election as accountability

A peace that feels election as development

A peace that hears the majority as prosperity

A peace that smells democracy as Good Governance

A peace that taste sound leadership as freedom

 

Our vote as a people is our peace

Our vote as a people is for positive and transformational change

From Liberia’s Mangroves swamp to the Wologessi Mountain in Lofa County

Our vote is not for greed, betrayal or nepotism

Our vote is to protect our young girls from violence and rape

Our vote is to empower our young men to become self-reliant

Our vote is to create equal opportunity for all Liberians

To live in a Peaceful Liberia that belongs to Liberians

 

To all Liberian Youth during every moment of national election. There must be no violence. Let’s stand for Peace. God bless Liberia!

+231 886 26 26 76

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS: 7th BATCH AU-YVC RECRUITMENT

The African Union Youth Volunteer Corps (AU-YVC), established in 2010, is a continental development program that promotes youth volunteerism in Africa. The program aims to deepen the status of young people in Africa as key actors in Africa’s development targets and goals, enhancing their participation in policy development as well as design and implementation of relevant interventions towards the AU Vision of ‘the Africa we want’. It brings people together to share skills, knowledge, creativity and learning to build a more integrated, prosperous and peaceful Continent driven by its citizens. The volunteering opportunities are intended to build professionalism and a sense of responsibility among the participants, thus enhancing their employability.

Young African Professionals are recruited to serve for a period of 12 months as AU Volunteers in an AU Member States other than their own. The next intake of volunteers for deployment in 2017 will be 02^nd – 22^nd August 2016.

Eligibility Criteria:

Applicants have to meet the following criteria:

• Citizen of AU Member State or African Diaspora;
• Age 18 – 33 years;
• Has a post-secondary certified qualifications (TVET, Bachelor’s degree or equivalent)
• Available to dedicate 12 (twelve) months for volunteer work;
• Willing to live and work in another AU Member State;
• Is proficient in at least one official AU language (Arabic, English, French, Portuguese);
• Has at least one year verifiable volunteering experience and one year professional work experience.

Eligible Fields of Qualification

For the next intake of AU Youth Volunteers, the following fields of qualification and expertise are required:

§  Accounting §  Agriculture §  Communication Studies §  Computer Science §  Diverse Natural Science Fields §  Economics §  Education §  Environmental Management §  Gender Studies

§  Human Resources Management §  Human rights §  International relations §  Journalism §  Law §  Political Science §  Space Science §  Statistics §  Translation/Interpretation

 

Application Process:

1. Register on the AU-YVC Database (africa-youth.org/auyvc)
2. Read carefully the information on the website
3. Build Your Profile
4. Attach the following:
   • Scanned copy of identity page on your passport
   • Highest qualification degree
   • Letter of Recommendation
5. Submit application (latest by 22^nd August 2016 midnight Addis Ababa time)

 

*Late applications and applications that do not contain all requested documents will not be considered

*THOSE WHO HAD APPLIED BEFORE ARE REQUESTED TO RE-APPLY

Recruitment Process:

• 23^rd August – eligibility Check;
• 15^th September: Successful applicants will be notified;
• 15^th October – 01^st November: AU-YVC pre-deployment training;
• 2017: Deployment of trained volunteers.

Volunteer Entitlements:

For the successful candidates, the African Union Commission and partners will cover the full costs of their pre-deployment training and cost of their deployment.

 

On deployment, the African Union Youth Volunteers receive the following:

• Economy return air ticket from home town to place of deployment
• A modest monthly stipend
• Health insurance cover
• Separation allowance on successful completion of twelve months

More Information:

For more information, please contact Ms Prudence Ngwenya (Head of Youth Division); Mr Daniel Adugna (AU-YVC Program Manager)

youth@africa-union.org

www.africa-youth.org/auyvc

www.facebook.org/auyvc

20 Inspirational Quotes To Maximize Your Potential

I’ll like to share with you some of the best Inspirational Quotations to Maximize Your Potential. These quotes have been really helpful to me over the last ten years when I was at the stage of discovering my purpose and finding meaning in life. Please feel free to comment or send me your awesome feedback. – Joseph M D Johnson

1. “It’s not what you achieve, it’s what you overcome. That’s what defines your career.” –Carlton Fisk
2. “Failure doesn’t mean you are a failure it just means you haven’t succeeded yet.” – Robert H. Schuller
3. “Think big and don’t listen to people who tell you it can’t be done. Life’s too short to think small.” – Tim Ferriss
4. “If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude” – Maya Angelou
5. “If you don’t build your dream. Someone will hire you to help build theirs.” – Tony Gaskins 
6. “Believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle.” – Christian D. Larson
7. “If you don’t go after what you want, you’ll never have it. If you don’t ask, the answer is always no. If you don’t step forward, you’re always in the same place.” – Nora Roberts
8. “No man can succeed in a line of endeavor which he does not like.” – Napoleon Hill
9. “The price of success is hard work, dedication to the job at hand, and the determination that whether we win or lose, we have applied the best of ourselves to the task at hand.” – Vince Lombardi
10. “You never stop earning when you do what you love.” – Asha Tyson
11. “Communication–the human connection–is the key to personal and career success.” – Paul J. Meyer
12. “What is the recipe for successful achievement? To my mind there are just four essential ingredients: Choose a career you love, give it the best there is in you, seize your opportunities, and be a member of the team.” – Benjamin F. Fairless
13. “I think everyone should experience defeat at least once during their career. You learn a lot from it.” – Lou Holtz 
14. “Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great.” –Mark Twain
15. “Don’t set compensation as a goal. Find work you like, and the compensation will follow.” –Harding Lawrence
16. “Great work is done by people who are not afraid to be great.” – Fernando Flores
17. “The only way to get people to like working hard is to motivate them. Today, people must understand why they’re working hard. Every individual in an organization is motivated by something different.” –Rick Pitino
18. “Find out what you like doing best and get someone to pay you for doing it.” –Katherine Whitehorn
19. “The only person you are destined become is the person you decide to be.” –  Ralph Waldo Emerson
20. “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act but a habit.” –Aristotle

Reference: http://addicted2success.com/quotes/20-powerful-quotes-that-will-maximize-your-potential/

Empowerneurship

The synopsis to his book, “The Empowerneurship,” Joseph M D Johnson idea is drawn from his experience of being socially discriminated and excluded from decision-making processes ostracized and categorized by war, lack of self-sufficiency and highly dependent on charity, or welfare as a Liberian refugee. The turning point of his life is as a result from strongly believing in God, gaining knowledge from pages of books and his ability to lead a social youth organization in a positive direction by proper leadership, adapting to changing environment and understanding his own strengths and weaknesses.

THE EMPOWERNEURSHIP

Over the years experts have been thinking about a new creative and innovative way to contribute their wisdom to the empowered entrepreneur’s communities around the globe. Professionals continue to find out new ways to turn goals into relevant realities. Successful businessmen have a joint belief that entrepreneurs have different believe then other people. These different beliefs set a stage between Empowerment and Entrepreneurship.

Joseph M D Johnson, for the first time since the inception of business ideas and the evolution of the concepts, empowerment and entrepreneurship has coined an ingenious 21^st century business term, “Empowerneurship.” Through Empowerneurship the possibility to find a way to become more creative and innovative in achieving maximum success exists. His concept is simple and straightforward yet providing a classic model through obtaining basic opportunities for marginalized people through the significant qualities of leadership, initiative and innovation in business.

Empowerneurship is a master piece of enlighten business concept that demonstrates deep principle that experts are curious to synergize into their new experience of business and personal development knowledge. The future of motivating, developing and empowering entrepreneurs is empowerneurship.

Empowerneurship draws more meaning from the assumption of taking risk and dealing with the uncertainty by the ‘empowerneur.’ The attention drawn from the function of an empowerneur with focus and clarity is done through the help for marginalized people and those who share their own access to opportunities and benefits. The significant beauty of the term “Empowerneurship,” would be in agreement with either the French economist Jean-Baptiste Say, the man who have the credit for coining the term entrepreneur or the Irish-French economist Richard Cantillon who first defined it.

For speaking appointment eMail: johnsonjmd_02@hotmail.com OR Call: +233 244 184181

2015 Mandela Washington Fellowship Application

Hey, welcome to my blog where you will find great youth opportunities. I encourage you to apply for the 2015 Mandela Washington Fellowship Application and wish you all the best!

For more information follow the link: https://youngafricanleaders.state.gov/washington-fellowship/apply/

Click Here to Apply to be a 2015 Mandela Washington Fellow.

2015 MANDELA WASHINGTON FELLOWSHIP APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

MANDELA WASHINGTON FELLOWSHIP APPLICATION PROCESS TIMELINE

• October 7, 2014- Application opens
• November 5, 2014: Application deadline
• January–February 2015: Semifinalists interviewed by local U.S. embassies and consulates
• April 2015: Applicants are notified of their status
• May 2015: Visa processing for finalists
• Mid-June 2015: Fellowship starts in the United States

Selection Process:

The Mandela Washington Fellowship is conducted as a merit-based open competition. After the deadline, all eligible applications will be reviewed by a selection panel. Chosen semifinalists will be interviewed by the U.S. embassies or consulates in their home countries. If selected for an interview, applicants must provide a copy of their passport (if available) or other government-issued photo identification to verify eligibility.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, socio-economic status, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity. The Mandela Washington Fellowship is open to young African leaders who meet the following criteria:

• Are between the ages of 25 and 35 at the time of application submission, although exceptional applicants younger than 25 will be considered.
• Are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents of the U.S.
• Are eligible to receive a United States J-1 visa.
• Are proficient in reading, writing, and speaking English.
• Are citizens and residents of one of the following countries: Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Republic of the Congo, Cote d’Ivoire, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Swaziland, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Individuals residing in Eritrea and Zimbabwe may not apply to the Public Management track. Residents of Sudan may only apply for the Civic Leadership track.

The U.S. Department of State and IREX reserve the right to verify all of the information included in the application. In the event that there is a discrepancy, or information is found to be false, the application will immediately be declared invalid and the applicant ineligible.

Applications not meeting the above technical eligibility requirements will not be forwarded to the selection committee. If you do not meet the technical eligibility requirements for this program, we invite you to visit exchanges.state.gov for information on other U.S. Department of State exchange opportunities.

What are the criteria for selection?

Selection panels will use the following criteria to evaluate applications (not in order of importance):

• A proven record of leadership and accomplishment in public service, business and entrepreneurship, or civic engagement.
• A demonstrated commitment to public or community service, volunteerism, or mentorship.
• The ability to work cooperatively in diverse groups and respect the opinions of others.
• Strong social and communication skills.
• An energetic, positive attitude.
• Demonstrated knowledge, interest and professional experience in the sector/track selected.
• A commitment to return to Africa and apply leadership skills and training to benefit the applicant’s country and/or community after they return home.

Application Information:

The application will collect basic information and will include questions regarding the applicant’s professional and academic experience, including educational background; honors and awards received; extracurricular and volunteer activities; and English language proficiency. We will also request a résumé (with dated educational and professional background), and personal information (name, address, phone, email, country of citizenship). Additional elements, such as letters of recommendation or university transcripts, are OPTIONAL and may supplement your application.

For more information follow the link: https://youngafricanleaders.state.gov/washington-fellowship/apply/

Kind regards,

Joseph M D Johnson

Peace Ambassador | African Youth Advocate

Republic of Liberia

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/JosephMDJohnson?ref=hl

Call for Applications: The Queen’s Young Leaders Programme 2014

Are you making a difference in your community?

Apply for the Queen’s Young Leaders Pogramme. Over the next five years,this life changing Programme has been established by The Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Trust and runs in partnership with Comic Relief and the Royal Commonwealth Society in honour of The Queen’s 60-year contribution to the Commonwealth.

The Queen’s Young Leaders Programme will support thousands of young people (18-29) to make their visions of a better society a reality. Comprising two parts, it will create a lasting legacy for the Queen through:

• An Awards scheme to recognise the achievements of 240 inspirational young people and provide support enabling them to take up leadership roles and inspire future leaders

• Grants to support organisations in selected countries across the Commonwealth that work with young people to transform their lives

Young people from all across the Commonwealth can apply or be nominated to win an award and become a Queen’s Young Leader.

 

Eligibility

Young people who have already achieved something extraordinary for themselves and others are also taking part in the event

Each application/nomination must meet the following criteria:

1. Applicants/nominees need to have proven experience of working to improve their communities locally, regionally or at a national level and be able to show evidence of their achievements.
2. Applicants/nominees must be aged between 18 and 29 for the year of the award and be citizens of a Commonwealth country.
3. Applicants/nominees need to demonstrate evidence of their leadership qualities.
4. Priority will be given to individuals who have overcome challenges to achieve their goals.
5. All applicants/nominees need to be supported by a suitable referee. All applications/nominations will be considered based on the young person’s achievements to date as well as their potential and their future ambition

Award details

Each year from 2014 to 2018, 60 inspirational young people will be selected to receive a Queen’s Young Leaders Award and become ‘Queen’s Young Leaders’ – one for every year that The Queen had served as Head of the Commonwealth at the time of her Diamond Jubilee. At least one young person from every Commonwealth country will receive a Queen’s Young Leaders Award.

Deadline: October 11th 2014

Click here to apply

Visit Queen Young Leaders for more information. #TheSearchIsOn

Emerging Leaders Africa Conference 2014, Accra Ghana

The Emerging Leaders Africa Conference

Welcome to my blog where you will find the right opportunity and information for all African youth. . .Young leaders in Ghana I encourage you to apply and attend this conference. The Emerging Leaders Africa Conference will take place in Accra – Ghana, 17th September 2014 at the Plaza Hotel on the Spintex Road. Contact: (+233) 500 294636 OR 0241 839469

Link to the website http://www.emergingleadersafrica.org/

Link to the Application form:
http://www.emergingleadersafrica.org/index.php/about-us-2

Emerging Leaders Africa is a registered non-governmental  organization in Ghana that seeks to empower the youth to rise up to the leadership challenge and help establish a new generation of professionals whose high idealism will be matched by their practical skills

The Emerging Leaders Conference is an initiative of Rev. Dr. Anthony Cudjoe; the CEO of the group and also the senior Pastor of the International Central Gospel Church, Sakumono who has a passion to raise leaders for the next generation. “The foundation for preparation is planning. We must plan for the future, so that by the time it comes we are ready for it”.