Date : August 18 – 20, 2024
Venue : Djeuga Hotel, Yaounde
Application Deadline : June 30, 2024
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About the Emerging Leaders Program

The Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation launched the Emerging Leaders Program in 2019 to prepare a new generation of transformational leaders driven by strong moral values and committed to a progressive and democratic Africa. This program identifies highly skilled and motivated Cameroonians under the age of 35 who have demonstrated remarkable leadership and a strong understanding of public policy, along with a dedication to implementing positive change in the country. Each year, twenty (20) highly accomplished individuals are selected to join the Emerging Leaders class.

Eligibility Conditions

To be eligible for the Emerging Leaders Program, candidates must:

  • Be Cameroonian.
  • Be under 35 years of age by August 2024.
  • Be proficient in both English and French.
  • Have experience leading teams.
  • Have a good understanding of the history and geopolitical complexity of Cameroon.
  • Have good writing experience.
  • Ability to speak in public and engage with policymakers (an added advantage).
  • Have proven experience in community engagement.

Benefits and Expectations of the Program

  • Participants will engage in a 3-day immersion in policy and public service in Yaoundé, with all associated costs covered by the Foundation.
  • The 20 emerging leaders will be divided into four groups of five, each receiving funding to organize an event of their choice that promotes economic freedom, peace and security, social entrepreneurship, good governance, human rights, youth engagement in public service, and democratic culture in a region of their choice. These events provide the Foundation with an opportunity to encourage young leaders to work towards a freer, more peaceful, and democratic Cameroon.
  • Each leader will be expected to produce at least two op-eds on a chosen area to be published by the Nkafu Policy Institute.
  • Emerging leaders will participate in the 2024 Central Africa Think Tank Forum.
  • Emerging leaders will be affiliated with the Nkafu Policy Institute for one year.
  • Selected candidates will jointly design projects.

Application Instructions

Interested applicants should complete the ONLINE application form no later than June 30, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. Cameroon Time. No paper applications will be accepted. If you have any concerns, please contact us at [email protected].

You will need the following documents to complete your application:

  • A copy of your national identity card or passport clearly showing your photo and date of birth.
  • A professional headshot.
  • A cover letter (300 words maximum) explaining why you should be selected for this program.
  • A curriculum vitae of less than two pages with three professional references.

Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Timeline of the 2024 Emerging Leaders Program

  • June 3, 2024: Application opens.
  • June 30, 2024: Application deadline.
  • July 1 – 5, 2024: Review and selection of successful applicants.
  • July 8, 2024: Notice and announcement of selected emerging leaders.
  • August 18 – 20, 2024: Emerging Leaders Program in Yaoundé.

About the Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation

The Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation was established to catalyze Africa’s economic transformation by focusing on social entrepreneurship, science and technology innovation, public health, and progressive policies that create economic opportunities for all. The Foundation works in partnership with local governments, policymakers, private enterprises, civil society organizations, and development partners to expand resources available to entrepreneurs, farmers, and small business owners, improving individual livelihoods.

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