About this opportunity
Applications are now open for the African-Europe Youth Academy (AEYA) New Leaders Lab 2026 , a fully funded leadership development programme for young Africans who are passionate about creating positive change in their communities through entrepreneurship, civic engagement, and community leadership. Funded by the European Union and implemented by Expertise France in partnership with the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) , the New Leaders Lab is designed to equip emerging leaders with practical skills, mentorship, and a continental network to strengthen their impact.
Benefits and support
Selected participants will receive: Free participation in the New Leaders Lab Leadership and entrepreneurship training Practical workshops and interactive learning sessions Personalized mentorship and coaching Peer learning with young leaders from across Africa Access to the Africa-Europe Youth Academy alumni network Opportunities to strengthen community and social impact initiatives.
Eligibility
Applicants must: Be 18–30 years old Reside in one of the eligible countries: Benin Burkina Faso Cameroon Republic of the Congo Côte d’Ivoire Democratic Republic of the Congo Ethiopia Guinea Kenya Malawi Mauritania Mozambique Niger Rwanda Senegal Tanzania Togo Uganda Zambia Demonstrate motivation to drive positive change through leadership, entrepreneurship, or community engagement.
Programme Structure
The New Leaders Lab is a 3–4 month programme that combines: Leadership development modules Entrepreneurship training Civic engagement learning Community development workshops Personalized support Networking and peer exchange with young leaders from across Africa. Why This Matters Young Africans are playing an increasingly important role in addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges across the continent.
The AEYA New Leaders Lab provides participants with the skills, knowledge, mentorship, and regional network needed to transform ideas into sustainable community initiatives while strengthening collaboration between Africa and Europe.
Application timeline
July 19, 2026 (11:59 p. m.
GMT).
Application steps
Interested applicants can learn more and submit their applications through the official programme page: APPLY HERE
Sources and verification
Important disclaimer
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