What is YALI?
The Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) is the U.S. government’s signature effort to invest in the next generation of African leaders. Nearly 1 in 3 Africans are between the ages of 10 and 24, and approximately 60 percent of Africa’s total population is below the age of 35. YALI was launched in 2010 to support young African leaders as they spur growth and prosperity, strengthen democratic governance, and enhance peace and security across sub-Saharan Africa.
The YALI Network is an online extension of YALI that provides members with invaluable opportunities to connect with other leaders in their community and to learn from experts in their field. Explore this page to learn more about the YALI Network and all the ways you can be involved.
Join the YALI Network
If you’re ready to join the YALI Network, then sign up today!
Get Involved with the YALI Network
Free Online Courses and Videos
Do you want to learn what you can do to promote human rights or protect the rights of women and girls? Are you trying to grow your small business? Do you want to improve your networking skills? Have you struggled with public speaking? As part of the YALI Network, you have access to over 25 Online Courses and Video Vignette Series that cover a range of important issues.
Both the Online Courses and Video Vignette Series include both video and written components to suit varying bandwidths. The Online Courses also include discussion guides to spark conversations, quizzes to test your knowledge, and an opportunity to earn a YALI Network Certificate. Take your first Online Course or watch your first Video Vignette Series today.
YALI Network Podcasts and Blogs
Every day, YALI Network members do extraordinary things. You can learn more about their achievements – and access practical information to help you achieve your own goals – by reading one of the blog posts or podcasts.
There are hundreds of blog posts and podcasts on the website with new ones published each week. These posts include everything from interviews with YALI Network members on farming and voter education to how-to guides on starting a business and making the most of your job search.
Online Conversations
You can connect with other young African leaders across the YALI Network social media platforms. Follow the YALI Network on Facebook and Twitter to meet other members and join the conversation.
YALI Network Initiatives
Throughout the year, YALI Network members come together to address important issues across the continent. Through these initiatives, you can join other YALI Network members in raising awareness and taking actions on issues that matter to you.