FULLY FUNDED TO NAIROBI, KENYA: Apply for the Young Leaders Conference - Kenya 2025 for young leaders working on mental health

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FULLY FUNDED TO NAIROBI, KENYA: Apply for the Young Leaders Conference – Kenya 2025 for young leaders working on mental health

Applications are open for the Sawa Project, an exciting new initiative led by MCW Global in collaboration with the Kofi Annan Foundation and the Africa Alliance of YMCAs. This program is designed to empower passionate young individuals working in mental health across six countries in Eastern Africa—Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Malawi, and Somalia. If you’re between 25 and 35 years old and engaged in mental health through your work, studies, or personal experience, this is your opportunity to deepen your impact, grow your network, and strengthen your leadership.

At the heart of the program is the Young Leaders Conference, happening from September 3 to 5, 2025, in Nairobi, Kenya. This fully-funded gathering will bring together committed mental health professionals, advocates, and changemakers to explore regional solutions, share ideas, and build lasting collaborations. In addition to the in-person conference, the Sawa Project offers online vision-building sessions and a seed funding opportunity of $1,000 USD to support participants in launching impactful mental health projects in their communities.

Those selected will take part in every phase of the initiative—from the conference and online learning sessions to the development and execution of their funded projects. The program covers all costs, including travel, accommodation, and program materials, ensuring accessibility for all participants. However, lodging will be shared with fellow attendees to encourage connection and collaboration.

If you’re committed to expanding access to mental health services, breaking down stigma, and leading change in your community, this program was made for you. Don’t miss the chance to be part of a vibrant network of emerging leaders driving mental health advocacy in Eastern Africa.

Submit your application by May 23, 2025, at 5:00 PM East Africa Time and take your place among the next generation of mental health changemakers.

Scroll down for more information and click on the official link attached below to apply for this opportunity

Host Institution

MCW Global

Program Type

Fully Funded

Program Benefits

Selected participants of the Sawa Project will receive a wide range of benefits designed to support their personal and professional growth. The program is fully funded, meaning all expenses related to participation—including transportation to and from Nairobi, accommodation, meals, and program materials—will be covered. Participants will attend a three-day in-person conference that provides unique opportunities for regional networking, leadership development, and knowledge exchange. In addition to the conference, they will benefit from virtual vision-planning webinars and continuous mentorship. A key highlight is the $1,000 USD seed funding offered to support participants in implementing impactful mental health projects within their communities. This comprehensive support ensures that young leaders are equipped not only with the resources they need but also the confidence and skills to drive lasting change in the mental health space across Eastern Africa.

Eligible Countries

The Sawa Project is open to young leaders who reside in six countries within the Eastern Africa region. These include Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Malawi, and Somalia. Applicants must be living in one of these countries at the time of application and during the entire duration of the program. The initiative is focused on equipping individuals from these specific countries with the tools and support needed to transform mental health care and advocacy in their local communities, fostering a strong regional network of emerging mental health leaders.

Application Procedure

Click on the official link attached below to apply for this opportunity

Official Link

https://mcwglobal.org/young-leaders-conference-sawa-2025/