Empowering the Next Generation of African Leaders
A non-governmental organization, Shapers Network Africa, has taken significant steps to equip over 100 students, recent graduates, and early career professionals with essential skills to access decent jobs, lead impactful careers, and contribute meaningfully to Africa’s sustainable development. This initiative, titled “SkilledforNow 2.0,” was held in Ibadan and marked a pivotal moment for young Africans seeking to build successful futures.
The program was supported by the Youth Empowerment Fund and funded by the European Union and Global Youth Mobilisation. These partnerships highlight the growing recognition of the importance of investing in youth as a key driver of economic growth and social progress across the continent.
The event drew a diverse audience, with many participants attending in person while others joined virtually through livestreams. This hybrid format ensured broader accessibility, allowing more young people to benefit from the opportunities presented during the workshop.
Before the in-person session, over 100 young individuals actively participated in a 12-day virtual BootCamp. This preparatory phase was designed to provide foundational learning in career readiness and professional development. The BootCamp covered a range of topics, including resume building, interview techniques, and personal branding, all aimed at helping participants navigate the competitive job market.
Participants came from various countries across Africa, including Nigeria, Tanzania, Cameroon, and Kenya. This cross-border participation underscored the shared challenges and aspirations of young people on the continent. It also highlighted the potential for collaborative efforts to address these challenges collectively.
In his welcome address, Oyindamola Osinubi, founder of Shapers Network Africa, encouraged participants to take ownership of their growth and careers. He emphasized the importance of self-driven learning and proactive engagement in shaping one’s future. His message resonated with attendees, who were eager to apply the knowledge gained from the BootCamp and the workshop to their personal and professional lives.
The “SkilledforNow 2.0” initiative is part of a larger movement to empower young Africans with the tools they need to succeed. By focusing on skill development, career guidance, and leadership training, the program addresses critical gaps in the current education and employment systems. It also aligns with global efforts to promote youth inclusion and economic empowerment.
Through such initiatives, organizations like Shapers Network Africa are not only helping individuals achieve their goals but also contributing to the overall development of their communities and the continent as a whole. As more young people gain access to quality education and training, the potential for innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth in Africa becomes increasingly promising.
The success of “SkilledforNow 2.0” serves as a model for similar programs across the region. It demonstrates that when young people are equipped with the right skills and support, they can become powerful agents of change. With continued investment and collaboration, the future of Africa looks brighter than ever.
