Jessica Peters
The Young Africa Innovates Mentorship Programme has successfully completed its first month, marking a major step in grooming young innovators across the continent.
Backed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Mastercard Foundation, the initiative is designed to help young people sharpen their ideas, learn from experienced mentors, and create solutions to real problems.
The opening month featured train-the-trainers sessions and a residential week of activities, where participants worked in groups, exchanged ideas, and received guidance from mentors.
A mentor in the program, Stella Uzoamaka described the journey as both “challenging and rewarding,” explaining that balancing professional duties with mentoring was tough but fulfilling.
A key highlight of the programme was its inclusive approach. Organisers ensured that persons with disabilities were fully involved through accessibility adaptations and a safe space free from discrimination.
According to organisers, the passion, creativity, and teamwork shown by the young innovators prove that Africa has a promising future. They expressed confidence that the coming months will produce more impactful ideas and stronger solutions from the participants.
The programme is expected to continue in phases, building a strong network of young Africans ready to drive change in their communities.
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