Horn Center for Democracy is currently accepting applications for its Youth Leadership for Democracy and Solidarity (YLDS) 2026. Interested applicants are encouraged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and apply for it.
About Horn Center for Democracy - Youth Leadership for Democracy and Solidarity
The Horn of Africa (HoA) is home to one of the world’s youngest populations that are aspiring to shape political dialogue, civic action, and democratic change across the region. Yet despite their demographic strength, many remain excluded from meaningful engagement in governance, face shrinking civic space in the national landscape, and have limited opportunities to collaborate across borders.
To contribute to addressing these challenges, the Horn Center for Democracy (HCD) is launching the Youth Leadership for Democracy and Solidarity (YLDS)-a regional leadership initiative that brings together emerging youth leaders committed to promoting democratic governance and cross-border cooperation.
This initiative is part of HCD’s multiyear strategy-youth development program-composed of digital civic education and youth leadership cohorts. This program aims to advance youth engagement in democracy, foster cross-border collaboration, and increase the resilience of pro-democracy actors throughout the HoA region.
Through intensive learning, peer exchange, leadership development, and collaborative action, the program will support a new generation of young leaders equipped to lead democratic transformation across the region.
Benefits of Horn Center for Democracy - Youth Leadership for Democracy and Solidarity
- Deepen their understanding of political and governance dynamics across the Horn of Africa
- Strengthen their leadership and democratic governance skills
- Exchange experiences with peers from across the region
- Build lasting professional relationships and regional networks
- Co-design innovative responses to shared democratic challenges
- Join a growing alumni network of young democratic leaders
Horn Center for Democracy - Youth Leadership for Democracy and Solidarity Requirements
They encourage applications from young leaders who are passionate about democracy, as enshrined in the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance (ACDEG), and other continental and regional policy frameworks.
Applicants should (be):
- A citizen of one of the IGAD member countries
- Between the ages of 18 and 35
- Demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to democratic values, and adhere to non-violent approaches to political discourse
- Have experience in civic engagement, youth leadership, community organizing, advocacy and policy engagement, social innovation and activism, movements, and political participation
- Interested in working across borders to advance democratic governance and democratic values
- Available to participate fully in all online and in-person program activities, and actively engage in group discussions and collaborative activities
- Contribute to cross-border and community project development
- Participate in program evaluations
- Demonstrate a willingness to contribute actively to the program alumni network
Application Date and Process
Applicants should submit a:
- Completed online application form
- Current CV (maximum two pages)
- Motivation letter outlining their interest in the program, any relevant experience in community organizing, development, and commitment to democratic leadership
- Any additional supporting documents requested in the application form
- A 3-5 minute Video Showcasing or explaining your relevant work and experience in relation to this call, Upload to youtube and attach the video URL only
Application Deadline
05 August, 2026
Opportunity Application
View details of
Horn Center for Democracy - Youth Leadership for Democracy and Solidarity
Apply for Horn Center for Democracy - Youth Leadership for Democracy and Solidarity
🔍
