The French-African Young Leaders Program 2025 is a fully funded opportunity for young leaders committed to positive change in Africa and France. Selected candidates will participate in two immersive seminars in Paris and Dakar. Applications close on March 30, 2025.
The French-African Foundation invites applications for the 2025 Young Leaders Program, an initiative aimed at fostering a new generation of leaders who will drive transformative change across Africa and France. This fully funded program brings together exceptional individuals from diverse professional backgrounds to participate in two week-long seminars in Paris, France, and Dakar, Senegal.
The program seeks passionate and committed individuals who have demonstrated strong leadership, engagement, and a connection between Africa and France. Participants will benefit from exclusive networking opportunities, high-level mentorship, and direct engagement with key public and private sector leaders.
If you are an emerging leader looking to expand your influence, enhance your leadership skills, and engage in meaningful discussions shaping the future of Franco-African relations, this program is for you!
French-African Young Leaders Program Overview
| Program Name | French-African Young Leaders Program 2025 |
|---|---|
| Organized by | French-African Foundation |
| Application Deadline | March 30, 2025 (Midnight, Paris Time) |
| Eligible Countries | African countries, France |
| Location | Paris, France & Dakar, Senegal |
| Program Type | Short course (Leadership Program) |
| Funding | Fully funded (Flights, accommodation, and activities covered) |
| Program Duration | Two week-long seminars (June & October 2025) |
| Age Requirement | 28 – 40 years old |
| Number of Awards | Not specified |
| Language Requirement | Fluency in English; French is an advantage |
| Website for Application | https://french-african.org/yl2025/ |
Key Takeaways
- Fully funded leadership program for young African and French leaders.
- Two week-long immersive seminars in Paris and Dakar.
- Eligibility: Open to nationals of African countries and France, aged 28 to 40 years.
- Participants must show strong leadership, impact, and commitment to Franco-African collaboration.
- High-level mentorship, networking, and media exposure.
- Application deadline: March 30, 2025.
About the French-African Young Leaders Program
The French-African Foundation established the Young Leaders Program to address global challenges by equipping emerging leaders with the tools, networks, and knowledge to drive positive change. The program is designed to build stronger ties between Africa and France while fostering collaboration in key sectors such as business, governance, education, health, technology, arts, and social impact.
Selected participants—referred to as Laureates—will engage in an intensive leadership development experience, participating in seminars, high-level discussions, and strategic networking sessions with influential public and private sector leaders. The program not only enhances leadership capacity but also provides exclusive access to decision-makers, thought leaders, and global influencers.
This is a unique opportunity for visionary leaders committed to shaping the future of Franco-African relations.
Eligibility Criteria for the French-African Young Leaders Program 2025
To qualify for the French-African Young Leaders Program 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Age Requirement
- Must be between 28 and 40 years old at the time of application.
2. Nationality
- Open to nationals of African countries and French citizens.
3. Language Proficiency
- Fluency in English is required.
- French proficiency is an advantage but not mandatory. Applicants should show a willingness to learn French.
4. Leadership and Professional Experience
Applicants must:
- Have at least three (3) years of demonstrated leadership experience in any of the following sectors:
- Public Administration
- Business & Entrepreneurship
- Technology & Innovation
- Health & Science
- Arts & Media
- Education & Research
- Sports & Community Development
- Environmental Sustainability
- Exhibit strong leadership skills, influence, and commitment to community impact.
5. Connection to Africa and France
- Candidates must have a professional, personal, or associative relationship with both Africa and France.
- Applicants should be actively engaged in projects or initiatives that strengthen Franco-African relations.
Program Benefits
1. Fully Funded Experience
Selected candidates will have their flights, accommodation, meals, and program-related expenses covered.
2. Two Immersive Leadership Seminars
- June 2025: 5-day seminar in Paris, France.
- October 2025: 5-day seminar in Dakar, Senegal.
3. High-Level Networking and Mentorship
- Exclusive meetings with public and private sector leaders.
- Mentorship from renowned global influencers and experts.
- Opportunities to collaborate with fellow Young Leaders and establish long-term partnerships.
4. Personal and Professional Development
- Access to leadership training, workshops, and strategic discussions.
- Hands-on experience in diplomacy, entrepreneurship, and policy-making.
- Exposure to innovative solutions for Africa’s and France’s socio-economic challenges.
5. Media Exposure and Recognition
- Increased visibility through media coverage and interviews.
- Recognition as a Young Leader in the Franco-African community.
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply for the French-African Young Leaders Program 2025:
- Visit the Application Portal: Click here to apply.
- Fill out the online application form with personal and professional details.
- Upload required documents, including:
- A CV/Resume detailing leadership experience.
- A motivational letter explaining why you should be selected.
- Any supporting materials showcasing past leadership projects or achievements.
- Submit the application before the deadline on March 30, 2025 (Midnight, Paris Time).
- Wait for selection results: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.
Application Deadline
- March 30, 2025 (Midnight, Paris Time).
Contact Information
For inquiries and further details, reach out via:
📧 Email: info@french-african.org
🌍 Website: https://french-african.org/yl2025/
Final Thoughts
The French-African Young Leaders Program 2025 is an unparalleled opportunity for emerging leaders looking to expand their impact on Franco-African relations. With fully funded travel, high-level mentorship, and networking with global decision-makers, this program is designed to equip leaders with the skills, connections, and influence to drive real change.
If you are a visionary leader ready to make a difference, apply today before the March 30, 2025 deadline!
