Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Program opens for 2026 cohort

The AFS Youth Assembly has officially opened applications for the second edition of the Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Program, a fully funded initiative designed to empower outstanding young changemakers from Sub-Saharan Africa.

Supported by the Sir Cyril Taylor Charitable Foundation, the program provides participants with the skills, resources, and seed funding necessary to create sustainable impact within their communities.

Africa’s demographic advantage, with 70% of its population under 30 presents both immense potential and unique challenges.

Young leaders are increasingly seen as pivotal to achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs) and addressing pressing social, economic, and environmental issues across the continent.

The Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Program is built on this principle, offering a platform for young innovators to expand their influence while building practical skills for community transformation.

Who Can Apply and What They Will Gain

The 2026 program will select 10 young leaders aged 18 to 35 who have demonstrated leadership potential, either through prior experience or their role in social impact projects, particularly those aligned with the SDGs.

Selected participants will join a growing network of leaders recognized for their contribution to social change and community development.

“Building the next generation of African leaders is critical to unlocking the continent’s potential,” the program notes.

“Through mentorship, skills development, and resources, the Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Program equips young changemakers to translate vision into tangible action.”

Participants will enroll in the AFS Global Competence Certificate (GCC) Program, designed to strengthen intercultural competencies essential for community impact.

This virtual program precedes the AFS Youth Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, set for August 12-14, 2026, which will bring together 700-900 young leaders from over 100 countries, including strong representation from Sub-Saharan Africa.

Additionally, participants will attend the “Effect+ in the Community” intensive workshop, which aims to build changemaking skills and provide tools for scaling local impact.

Upon returning home, they are expected to replicate the workshop in their communities, engaging at least 100 peers to foster a ripple effect of social and sustainable development initiatives.

From Training to Impact

Beyond skill development, the program provides seed funding for personal impact projects, which participants will implement over six months with guidance from the AFS Youth Assembly Impact Network.

This combination of practical support, mentorship, and global exposure equips young leaders with both the knowledge and resources needed to make measurable change in their communities.

Applicants must be proficient in English, have demonstrable leadership experience, and show potential for personal and professional growth.

They must also be able to attend the Youth Assembly in Switzerland in person.

Early applications are encouraged, as visa processing may take several months, and applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. The deadline for applications is February 20, 2026.

The Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Program represents a unique convergence of mentorship, funding, and global exposure.

For aspiring changemakers seeking to advance sustainable development in Africa, this initiative offers an unparalleled pathway to grow as leaders while delivering tangible impact on the continent.

Apply now to be part of the 2026 cohort and join a network of young African leaders driving meaningful change.

For more information, visit  Sir Cyril Taylor Charity