Dates: August 04-06, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
Mode: In-person at Djeuga Palace hotel, Yaoundé, Cameroon
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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 of Cameroonian nationality and resident in Cameroon.
  • Be under 35 years of age by June 2025.
  • Be proficient in both English and French.
  • Have proven experience in community engagement.
  • 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 is an added advantage.

Why you should apply

  • Engagement in a 3-day immersion training in policy and public service in Yaoundé, with all associated costs covered by the Foundation.
  • Participation in the 2025 Central Africa Think Tank Forum.
  • One year affiliation with the Nkafu Policy Institute.

Expectations of the Program

  • The 20 emerging leaders will be divided into four groups of five, each receiving funding to organize an activity of their choice that promotes economic freedom, peace and security, social entrepreneurship, good governance, human rights, youth engagement in public service or democratic culture in a region of their choice. These activities provides the Foundation with an opportunity to encourage young leaders to work collaboratively towards a freer, more peaceful, and democratic Cameroon.
  • Each leader will be expected to produce at least a policy briefs/op-ed/short article on a chosen topic to be published by the Nkafu Policy Institute.

Application Procedure

Interested applicants should complete the ONLINE application form no later than June 13, 2025, 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 picture.
  • A cover letter (300 words maximum) explaining why you should be selected for this program.
  • A curriculum vitae of two pages maximum with two professional references.
  • Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Timeline of the 2025 Emerging Leaders Program

  • May 9, 2025:  Application opens.
  • June 13, 2025:  Application deadline.
  • June 16 – 30, 2025: Review and selection of shortlisted applicants.
  • July 1st -4, 2025: Interviews and selection of successful applicants.
  • July 7, 2025:  Notice and official announcement of selected emerging leaders.
  • August 4 – 6, 2025:  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.

Contact

Questions related to this program can be sent to:

Nkafu Policy Institute
(+237) 222 31 15 84 / (+237) 654 86 72 54
[email protected]