Empowering Young Africans: The TLT Scholars’ Vision for Change in Kenya and Ghana

In the heart of Nairobi, a beacon of hope emerges. A mere five months after their initiation into the Transformative Leadership Training (TLT), young visionaries from 26 African nations have unveiled projects that promise transformative change in their communities.

Their passion is palpable, their vision clear, and their projects are set to change the narrative in Nairobi.

From Classroom Renovations to Solar Power Installations

Their initiatives span a diverse range of projects. One can witness the transformation in Korogocho Slum’s Aduru Educational Center, where scholars have renovated classrooms and harnessed the power of the sun through solar installations.

The youth are also championing mental health, rehabilitating the counseling room at Kirigithi Juvenile Rehabilitation Centre, and ensuring that the youngsters of Glory Children’s Home in Kiamumbi, Kiambu have durable utensils for their meals. In a commendable initiative, the scholars have set forth vocational training programmes tailored for young mothers in the Kibera slum, among other significant undertakings.

Addressing the African Youth Crisis

Africa faces a formidable challenge. With over 72 million of its youth detached from education, employment, or training avenues, the continent is at a crucial juncture. The TLT program, funded by the Mastercard Foundation and in collaboration with the United States International University-Africa (USIU-A), aims to alter this course. Coordinated by VS Management & Consulting, a pan-African organization, TLT is on a mission: to empower the youth, imbue them with self-efficacy, ethical leadership, employability, and nurture entrepreneurial spirits.

Changing Narratives and Building Foundations

Dudi Nyok Luat, a South Sudanese refugee and student at the International Business Administration, speaks with fervor about his group’s initiative in Korogocho. Addressing the pressing issue of overcrowded classrooms, their endeavor resonates with the ideals of Sustainable Development Goal 4, championing quality education. “Our journey, ignited by the Transformative Leadership Training, seeks to bring lasting change, illuminating brighter futures for young minds,” says Luat.

Tessy Mercy Umutoni, an International Relations student from Burundi, reflects on her transformative journey with TLT. “The program has refined my leadership skills while enabling me to make a genuine difference,” Umutoni remarks. Her group, Elite Innovators, is focusing on enhancing mental well-being and providing crucial education to young girls, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals for Health and Quality Education.

Boston Palanga, echoing Umutoni’s sentiments, emphasizes the importance of changing the narrative often portrayed by Western media. Leading a project named “Clean Earth Now” in Huruma Mathare, Kenya, Palanga is keen on advocating for a cleaner environment, in line with SDG 13.

Cultivating Change and Looking Forward

Adeyemi Asaba, VSMC’s Lead Consultant, lauds the scholars for their unwavering commitment. “Their initiatives are a testament to cultural cohesion and community development,” he says. With 32 community development projects already rolled out in Nairobi, the TLT program promises to foster social consciousness, transform young minds, and equip them to be change-makers.

Initiated in Ghana earlier this year, the TLT program has already birthed ambassadors across six African nations. In collaboration with USIU-A in Nairobi, VSMC looks forward to a brighter future, where young Africans are at the helm, leading change, and scripting their destinies.