Be Part of the France-Africa 2025 Young Leaders Program (Fully-funded): Applications Now Open!
Shaping the Future of Leadership Between Africa and France
Under the High Patronage of H.E. Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic, and H.E. Andry Rajoelina, President of the Republic of Madagascar, the Young Leaders Program is a prestigious initiative designed to bring together 30 exceptional young talents from both France and Africa. This flagship program bridges these regions, providing the next generation of leaders with unparalleled opportunities for growth, collaboration, and impact.
Applications are open until March 30, 2025. Those ready to be part of a generation that shapes the future are encouraged to apply.
Program Vision: Connecting Leaders for Global Impact
The Young Leaders Program identifies, promotes, and strengthens the leadership potential of exceptional talents from both Africa and France. The key goals include:
- Identifying individuals with strong leadership abilities and high impact potential.
- Fostering connections between Africa, France, and the global community.
- Strengthening relationships through collaboration, mentorship, and knowledge-sharing.
Through this initiative, participants engage in a unique leadership experience that allows them to build strategic relationships with influential decision-makers, industry leaders, and public figures.
How to Participate: Application Criteria
Each year, the program attracts thousands of applications from highly qualified professionals. In 2023, more than 5,000 applications were received from over 40 African countries and France.
Candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Age: Between 28 and 40 years old.
- Language: Bilingual in English (French is an asset).
- Professional Experience: A minimum of five years of professional experience, demonstrating leadership and impact.
- Vision: A strong commitment to fostering connections between Africa and France.
- Nationality: Applicants must be nationals of either an African country or France.
Applications must be submitted through the French-African Foundation’s website before the deadline.
Selection Process
Candidates undergo a rigorous selection process led by an independent, high-level jury comprising distinguished African, French, and international figures. The jury evaluates applicants based on their excellence, leadership qualities, and commitment to making a positive impact.
The Young Leaders Network: A Community of Excellence
Since its inception, the Young Leaders Program has fostered a vibrant community of high-achieving professionals. The program’s network includes:
- 182 alumni with an average age of 34 years (as of 2024).
- Over 50 African nationalities represented since 2017.
- More than 500 speakers involved in mentoring and training.
- Presence in over 40 African countries, as well as in France, the U.S., and the Middle East.
A Transformative Leadership Experience
The Young Leaders Program offers participants a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to develop their leadership abilities, engage with influential decision-makers, and gain access to an exclusive network of changemakers.
Two Exclusive Seminars:
- June 2025 in France
- November 2025 in Madagascar
During these two weeks, Young Leaders will participate in:
- Meetings with prominent personalities in politics, business, and civil society.
- Leadership training sessions led by renowned experts.
- Strategic discussions with key decision-makers from both the public and private sectors.
Each year, the program takes place under the patronage of the President of France and the President of the African host country, highlighting its prestige and far-reaching impact.
Testimonials from Past Participants
- Ndeye Fatou TOURE (Senegal – France): “Being recognized as a Young Leader by the French-African Foundation has been an eye-opening experience, catalyzing my creativity and broadening my horizons through enriching exchanges with brilliant minds.”
- Amine Dabchy (Morocco – France): “The Young Leaders Program provided me with a unique opportunity to reflect on the new economic dynamics between Africa and Europe. It helped me understand common challenges and contributed to building balanced, forward-thinking partnerships.”
- Moussa Dabo (Guinea): “A unique opportunity to truly connect with leaders making a difference and creating opportunities between Africa and France.”
- Yanis Arnopoulos (Cameroon): “Changing the Africa-France relationship requires a new generation of committed leaders. The Young Leaders Program strengthened my mission to rethink models, create opportunities, and build a just and ambitious future.”
Apply Now: Be Part of the 2025 Young Leaders Cohort
Applications for the 2025 Young Leaders Program are now open. Visionary leaders ready to face global challenges and drive meaningful impact are encouraged to apply.
Application Deadline: March 30, 2025 (Midnight, Paris Time)
