An innovative international initiative is empowering young changemakers from Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania, and Kyrgyzstan to lead the transition toward sustainable, community-driven economies. This unique program, Emerging Leaders: Building Circular Futures, is designed to engage young people between the ages of 18 and 25 in the development and execution of projects that embrace circular economy principles to tackle pressing environmental and economic challenges in their communities.

With generous backing from a private donor and led by the global organization 10 Billion Strong, the program operates in collaboration with trusted grassroots partners including Dunia Bora in Kenya, GAYO in Botswana, HUDEFO in Tanzania, and the Unison Group in Kyrgyzstan. Together, they aim to build local resilience by nurturing the next generation of environmental leaders through practical experience and targeted support.

In each participating country, five teams composed of approximately six young individuals will be selected to participate. These teams will benefit from a blended learning model combining virtual training with local, in-person events. The approach is designed to help participants gain real-world experience while building the leadership and entrepreneurial capabilities necessary to implement viable circular economy strategies. Through this immersive format, young leaders will apply their learning directly to community-based projects that promote sustainability and economic regeneration.

Throughout the program, participants will explore how to adapt circular economy frameworks to their unique cultural and environmental settings. They will engage in a self-paced online curriculum spanning around 30 hours, attend interactive virtual workshops, and receive guidance from industry experts and seasoned mentors. The training will emphasize systems thinking, strategic planning, and innovation—all aimed at empowering youth to identify and act on opportunities for regenerative development within their local context.

One of the distinguishing aspects of this initiative is the provision of small grants, enabling each team to put their ideas into action and demonstrate the tangible benefits of circular solutions. Participants will also build strong networks with local entrepreneurs, mentors, and peers, fostering a collaborative environment that supports long-term impact and continued engagement beyond the program’s duration.

The program begins with a local in-person launch event in early July 2025, followed by a combination of online and offline activities throughout the following months. It concludes in August with a local closing event and symposium, where participants will present their progress and share lessons learned.

To qualify, applicants must be between 18 and 25 years old, currently residing in one of the four participating countries, and have sufficient English proficiency and internet connectivity to engage in the program’s virtual components. They must also show a clear interest in environmental issues and a willingness to work closely with others on a shared project. Above all, they need to be ready to commit fully from July to November 2025 to a journey that blends learning, innovation, and action for a more sustainable future.

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