FULLY FUNDED : Apply the Youth Leadership for Democracy and Solidarity (YLDS) Cohort I 2026 – Regional Leadership Programme
Applications are now open for the Youth Leadership for Democracy and Solidarity (YLDS) Cohort I, a fully funded regional leadership programme organized by the Horn Center for Democracy (HCD). The initiative is designed to bring together 15 emerging youth leaders from across the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) region to strengthen leadership, civic engagement, and democratic collaboration.
The programme aims to equip young leaders with the knowledge, skills, and regional networks needed to promote democratic governance, foster cross-border cooperation, and contribute to positive social and political change across the Horn of Africa.
Participants will take part in a hybrid learning experience that combines online engagement with an intensive residential programme in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, scheduled for 11–18 October 2026.
Programme Overview
- Programme: Youth Leadership for Democracy and Solidarity (YLDS) – Cohort I
- Organizer: Horn Center for Democracy (HCD)
- Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (Hybrid Programme)
- Residential Programme: 11–18 October 2026
- Number of Participants: 15
- Funding: Fully Funded
Learning Themes
The programme covers a range of topics, including:
- Democratic governance and political dynamics in the Horn of Africa.
- Leadership development and emotional intelligence.
- Civic engagement and digital advocacy.
- Youth and women's participation in democratic transformation.
- Conflict-sensitive leadership.
- Cross-border cooperation and regional solidarity.
- Grassroots innovation and democratic action.
- Collaborative project design and implementation.
Why Apply?
The Youth Leadership for Democracy and Solidarity Programme provides a valuable opportunity for young leaders to deepen their understanding of governance and democracy while building practical leadership skills and expanding regional networks. Participants will collaborate with peers from across the Horn of Africa, engage with experienced practitioners, and contribute to initiatives that promote democratic governance and regional cooperation.
Interested applicants are encouraged to submit their applications before 5 August 2026.
Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached below to apply.
Additional Information
- Leadership development and mentorship.
- Hybrid learning with regional collaboration.
- Interactive workshops led by democracy practitioners, academics, and policy experts.
- Innovation labs and collaborative problem-solving sessions.
- Peer learning and cross-border dialogue.
- Access to a growing regional alumni network of young democratic leaders.
- Be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to democratic values.
- Have experience in civic engagement, advocacy, youth leadership, community organizing, social innovation, activism, or policy engagement.
- Be committed to non-violent civic participation and democratic dialogue.
- Be available to participate fully in both the online and in-person components of the programme.
- Be willing to contribute to collaborative projects and remain active within the programme's alumni network.
- The programme welcomes applications from diverse backgrounds and promotes equal opportunity and inclusion.
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