Empowering Survivors, Transforming Communities: Samuel’s Mission to End FGM in Africa with SmartRR
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), a term that echoes with the pain and resilience of survivors, is a haunting reality that demands our attention and collective commitment to bring about change. Samuel, a computer scientist, has been the driving force behind an innovative solution to combat FGM in Africa. His journey, fueled by the values instilled in him during his childhood, has resulted in the creation of SmartRR, an application that not only connects survivors of FGM with medical professionals but also fosters a supportive community that transcends borders. Samuel’s formative years were shaped by a mother who instilled in him the importance of empathy and the duty to protect his siblings, especially his sisters. This upbringing laid the foundation for Samuel’s dedication to safeguarding women. As he delved into computer science during his studies, he discovered a potent tool to address societal issues. Samuel found himself drawn to leveraging his skills to protect women, a cause that had been close to his heart since childhood. The pivotal moment for SmartRR came with Samuel’s participation in the UNFPA pitch competition in 2022, where his innovative solution emerged victorious. The subsequent seed funding enabled the integration of features like an anonymous chat box, allowing users to share their stories and seek assistance. What started with a mere 300 cases before the funding has now grown to over 1,200 reported cases, reaching even those with disabilities who utilize the platform to request support. SmartRR serves as a lifeline for FGM survivors. The application links survivors with service providers, primarily medical doctors, who offer virtual consultations. The anonymity of these consultations provides a safe space for survivors to seek help comfortably. Samuel’s collaboration with AfriLabs and UNFPA under the UNFPA Incubation Programme (Innovating solutions against SGBV, FGM and Climate Action 2021 – 2022) has significantly expanded the reach of SmartRR, with over 7,523 users and 1,200 cases reported. The impact of SmartRR extends beyond numbers; it resonates in the positive changes observed in communities heavily affected by FGM. In the North East of Nigeria, FGM cases have declined. However, cases of FGM in the North Western part of Nigeria are prevalent, and Samuel’s engagement with partners such as UNFPA and AfriLabs has allowed and aided the reach in the North Western region. Samuel narrates compelling stories that illuminate the transformative power of SmartRR. One service provider, donned in a T-shirt advocating against FGM, initiated a conversation in a salon that led to a profound change of heart for a woman contemplating the procedure. Another instance involves a 22-year-old rape victim who was ashamed to tell her friends or family members and even contemplated suicide, but upon discovering SmartRR, found the necessary support and solace to carry on. Angela Felix (Note: The name “Angela Felix” is fictional and used to protect the identity of the individual.), recounting her experience, expressed gratitude for the app’s discreet and rapid assistance, saying, “Two things which made the app stand out to me is the anonymity it provides and how quickly my case was attended to.” Her journey of healing and resilience serves as a powerful testament to the impact of SmartRR in providing crucial support to survivors. (Watch the full story here, as featured in Voice of America News, 2021). SmartRR’s impact on communities affected by FGM is nothing short of extraordinary. Samuel’s commitment, coupled with the support from AfriLabs and UNFPA, has not only elevated SmartRR but has also empowered survivors, changed hearts, and transformed communities. Through technology, empathy, and determination, Samuel is leading a revolution against FGM, one virtual consultation at a time.
AfriLabs Annual Gathering: Pioneering Africa’s Digital Transformation – 8 years of Innovation and Collaboration
AfriLabs Annual Gathering: Pioneering Africa’s Digital Transformation – 8 years of Innovation and Collaboration Africa’s innovation ecosystem has been rapidly evolving, fueled by various initiatives and transformative events. Among these, the AfriLabs Annual Gathering stands out as a catalyst for fostering a dynamic tech landscape across the continent. Over the past nine years, it has played a pivotal role in uniting innovators, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders, accelerating Africa’s digital growth. This article delves into the impact of AfriLabs and highlights why continental events like the Annual Gathering are vital to shaping the future of African innovation. The Rise of AfriLabs AfriLabs has been a driving force for change in the African tech ecosystem, leveraging innovation and digital technologies to create sustainable businesses, generate jobs, and foster economic development. With over 500 innovation hubs convening at the annual gathering, the event has become a melting pot for young innovators, entrepreneurs, and startups across various sectors. The organization’s multifaceted approach includes capacity building, policy advocacy, networking, innovative financing models, and a strong emphasis on gender inclusion. The Impact of AfriLabs AfriLabs has had a profound impact on the African innovation ecosystem, with its influence extending far beyond networking. The organization has played a pivotal role in shaping the continent’s innovation landscape, driving policy changes, and creating a supportive environment for startups to thrive. The Nigeria Startup Act and the ongoing Nigeria Startup Act State Adoption program are testaments to AfriLabs’ commitment to driving conversations and effecting change. Our impact extends even further through strategic collaborations like the Timbuktoo Initiative, an ambitious program spearheaded by the UNDP. Focused on fostering a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem across Africa, the Timbuktoo Initiative aligns with AfriLabs’ mission of driving transformative change through innovation and entrepreneurship. Together, Timbuktoo and AfriLabs aim to highlight the critical role that impactful policies play in nurturing startups and creating a sustainable environment for growth on the continent. At the heart of our work is AfriLabs’ purpose-built ecosystem engagement platform – a digital hub that connects Africa’s largest and most diverse community of innovation enablers. This platform is the pulse of collaboration, where startups, entrepreneurs, and innovation hubs across the continent exchange ideas, forge partnerships, and collectively drive the future of African tech. It is more than a digital space; it’s a catalyst for groundbreaking innovation, ensuring that the African innovation ecosystem is interconnected, inclusive, and primed for global competitiveness. The Role of Continental Tech & Innovation Events Continental events like the AfriLabs Annual Gathering play a crucial role in shaping the African innovation ecosystem. These events provide a platform for innovators, entrepreneurs, and startups to connect, share ideas, and collaborate. The AfriLabs Annual Gathering has been instrumental in strengthening the tech ecosystem, leveraging innovation and digital technologies to create sustainable businesses, generate jobs, and foster economic development. The event has also marked the signing of significant partnerships, including one with Algeria Venture, focusing on exploring cooperation opportunities and supporting the management, funding, and promotion of startups across Africa. Uniting Innovation: AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2024 The 9th edition of the AfriLabs Annual Gathering, themed “Uniting Innovation,” is set to take place from November 6th to 8th, 2024, at the Cape Town Convention Centre (CTCC) in South Africa. This premier platform for Africa’s innovation community promises to bring together the brightest minds, dynamic speakers, and visionaries from across the African continent to drive forward the continent’s digital transformation. The event is strategically aligned with the African Union Agenda 2063, which aims to achieve a prosperous, integrated, and peaceful Africa. A Decade of Innovation and Collaboration Since its inception in 2016 in Ghana, the AfriLabs Annual Gathering has consistently served as a catalyst for Africa’s innovation ecosystem. The event has provided a unique platform for stakeholders from diverse sectors to converge, collaborate, and exchange knowledge on how to propel Africa towards a fully digitized future by 2030. What to Expect at AfriLabs Annual Gathering 2024 This year’s event promises to be an exciting celebration of innovation, featuring: → Dynamic Speakers: Renowned thought leaders and visionaries from across the African continent and beyond will share their insights and experiences on driving innovation and digital transformation in Africa. → Interactive Sessions: Participants will engage in interactive sessions, workshops, and masterclasses focused on topics such as innovation, entrepreneurship, digital economy, and more. → Networking Opportunities: The event will provide a unique platform for African innovators, policymakers, investors, startups, and thought leaders to connect, collaborate, and explore opportunities for growth and development. Special Offers for AAG2024! Discounted Flights: Enjoy 12% off flights to South Africa with our partner, Ethiopian Airlines. Accommodation Discounts: Book your stay at Southern Sun for special rates. Haven’t secured your ticket yet? Don’t miss out on this transformative experience! Register now to gain access to a platform that will fuel your growth, connect you with key leaders, and unlock opportunities across Africa’s innovation landscape. Join us in Cape Town this November for a once-in-a-lifetime gathering that will shape Africa’s future in tech and entrepreneurship. Register Now
AfriLabs set to host Llama 3.1 Impact Sub-Saharan Africa Hackathon for AI Innovators
AfriLabs and its partners, Meta and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), will host the Llama 3.1 Impact Sub-Saharan Africa Hackathon from 8th to 10th October 2024 in Kigali, Rwanda. The hackathon is designed to harness the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to address critical social challenges across Africa, with a focus on gender bias, linguistic inclusivity, and economic development. AI holds immense potential to drive social impact across Africa by addressing key challenges in areas like healthcare, education, economic development, and governance. In Sub-Saharan Africa, where only 60% of women achieved literacy in 2020 – far below the global average of 88% – AI-driven tools can bridge gaps in education and economic participation, fostering greater equity. Closing the gender gap across Africa could have profound economic implications. The World Economic Forum estimates that achieving gender parity could add $2.1 trillion to the continent’s GDP by 2025. The hackathon’s emphasis on addressing gender bias aims to help achieve this through innovative AI solutions. In addition to gender bias, the linguistic diversity of Africa poses both a challenge and an opportunity. Only 10% of African languages are represented on the internet, according to a report by the African Union. Language barriers are proven to limit economic opportunities, with studies showing a potential reduction in opportunities by as much as 20%. AI’s capability to improve language representation and inclusivity will play a key role in unlocking the continent’s economic potential. Financial inclusion is another critical focus area. In Sub-Saharan Africa, only 66% of women have a bank account compared to 73% of men, according to the World Bank. AI solutions that promote inclusive financial access can help bridge these gaps, contributing to economic development in the region. With Africa poised for significant economic growth, the African Development Bank estimates that the continent’s GDP will rise from $2.2 trillion in 2020 to $3.4 trillion by 2025 – the Llama 3.1 Impact Hackathon comes at a pivotal time. Africa also boasts the highest rate of entrepreneurship globally, with 22% of the population starting businesses, making it a fertile ground for AI-driven innovation. Building on this foundation, the hackathon will unite a diverse group of participants, including startup founders, developers, tech enthusiasts, students, and professionals. Leveraging Meta’s cutting-edge Llama AI technology, participants will develop innovative solutions with the potential to drive lasting impact across the continent. This hackathon will serve as a dynamic platform for innovators to explore the limitless possibilities of AI in solving real-world challenges. Following the hackathon, top-performing teams will be selected to enter a second phase focused on mentorship and product development. These teams will receive insights from experts at Meta, BMGF, and AfriLabs to refine their prototypes, prepare for market validation, and explore business development strategies. The program’s goal is to ensure that AI innovations from Sub-Saharan Africa not only thrive but also contribute meaningfully to addressing the region’s most pressing challenges. Stay tuned for more updates from the Llama 3.1 Impact Hackathon and the solutions that will emerge from it. For more details about the hackathon, please contact baluku@afrilabs.com.
AfriLabs Strengthens Global Ties in Innovation & Tech with Paris Delegation
AfriLabs Strengthens Global Ties in Innovation & Tech with Paris Delegation The upcoming AfriLabs delegation to Paris, scheduled for October 9th to 11th, 2024, represents a significant opportunity to enhance global engagement in innovation and technology. This exclusive delegation aims to connect African innovation hubs with key players in Europe’s vibrant tech ecosystem, fostering valuable partnerships and collaborations. The three-day immersion will provide a unique chance to experience the Spotlight Nigeria event, BIG 2024 (Bpifrance Inno Génération), and a visit to Station F, the world’s largest startup campus. Through these engagements, AfriLabs aims to foster strategic collaborations, explore investment opportunities, and showcase the innovations emerging from Africa's tech landscape. Paris Delegation Highlights: Spotlight Nigeria: Organized by Friends of Nigeria (FON) Europe, this event brings together top executives, investors, and business leaders from Europe and Nigeria. It serves as a platform to discuss business and investment opportunities in Nigeria, fostering critical partnerships that can drive growth and innovation across both continents. BIG 2024 (Bpifrance Inno Génération): BIG 2024 is Bpifrance’s flagship event, renowned as one of Europe’s largest gatherings for entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators, it offers a dynamic environment to explore new ideas, forge partnerships, and celebrate innovation on a global scale. AfriLabs delegates will participate in VIP workshops, B2B engagements, and networking opportunities. Station F is the world’s largest startup campus, housing over 1,000 startups under one roof. It is a hub of cutting-edge innovation and entrepreneurship. AfriLabs delegates will tour the campus, engage with resident startups, and explore collaborations aimed at strengthening ties between African and European innovation ecosystems. Delegation Agenda: Tuesday, October 8, 2024: Arrival: Delegates arrive in Paris. Wednesday, October 9, 2024: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM: Spotlight Nigeria Business Forum 2024Location: Hôtel de l'Industrie, 4 Place Saint-Germain des Prés, 75006 ParisThe day will feature plenary/ panel sessions, networking, and B2B meetings. 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM: Bpifrance Special International Cocktail & NetworkingLocation: Pomereu Hotel, 67 rue Lille, 75007 ParisAn exclusive VIP event connecting African institutions and French investors. Thursday, October 10, 2024: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM: Bpifrance BIG 2024Location: Accor Arena, Bercy, ParisA full-day event with curated VIP workshops, B2B engagements, and networking opportunities for AfriLabs delegates. Friday, October 11, 2024: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Visit to Station FLocation: Station F, 5 Parvis Alan Turing, 75013 ParisDelegates will tour Station F, meet with resident startups, and explore potential collaborations. Saturday, October 12, 2024: Group Tour: A cultural exploration of Paris Strengthening Global Innovation Ties AfriLabs' goal to broaden the global narrative of African technology is reaching a critical milestone with this delegation. Through active engagement with key players in Paris, AfriLabs is creating new opportunities for investment, cooperation, and knowledge sharing. The Paris delegation reaffirms AfriLabs' dedication to making sure African innovation keeps flourishing on the international scene. AfriLabs' Chief Operating Officer, Ajibola Odukoya, emphasized the importance of the Paris delegation, stating: “This delegation to Paris reflects AfriLabs’ commitment to building stronger bridges between African innovators and global markets. By engaging with key stakeholders in Europe, we aim to unlock new opportunities for collaboration, investment, and growth that will fuel Africa’s tech ecosystem. The Paris trip will be an important milestone in our ongoing efforts to place African innovation at the forefront of global conversations.” During the visit to Station F, Odukoya will have a strategic meeting with Yves Cabanac, Director at Plug & Play, to explore further collaborations between African startups and global investors. The delegation will include Ajibola Odukoya from AfriLabs, Roberta Orioma from The Clan Production Studios Limited, Segunfunmi Oyedele from Raiz Digital Services Technology, Henry Ogbuagu from Vencapital, as well as data science experts Temitope Baye, Aanu Oyeniran, and Oluwatoyin Adekanmbi. If you’re in Paris and would like to explore potential partnerships or discuss AfriLabs’ mission, we would love to connect. We also welcome media representatives interested in learning more about our initiatives at AfriLabs for interviews or discussions. For media inquiries, please contact our Strategic Communications & Public Relations Lead, Millie Abila, at [millicent@afrilabs.com]. Stay tuned for updates and insights from the AfriLabs delegation as we embark on this journey of global collaboration and innovation.
AfriLabs Welcomes New Hubs Across Africa, Expanding to a New City in South Africa
AfriLabs Welcomes New Hubs Across Africa, Expanding to a New City in South Africa AfriLabs is proud to announce the admission of 18 new member hubs across the continent in the second quarter of 2024. This expansion further strengthens AfriLabs’ presence in all regions of Africa, including our first hub in a new city — Stellenbosch, South Africa. The following hubs reflect the diversity and vibrancy of Africa’s innovation landscape, bringing fresh perspectives and dynamic initiatives to the AfriLabs community. From the creative energy of North Africa to the entrepreneurial spirit of Southern Africa, each hub contributes to the mission of driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and supporting sustainable development across the continent. In North Africa, DigiArtLivingLab (DALL) has established its presence in Tunis and Nabeul, Tunisia, alongside Connect’Innov and The Dot, which is the biggest Digital hub in the northern region and affiliated with the Tunisian government, both based in Tunis. Egypt welcomes PTS Investments Holdings and Aria Ventures, both situated in Cairo. In Western Africa, Mswitch in Abuja, Nigeria, joins the network. Eastern Africa sees the addition of AFRICA TECH SPACE in Nakuru, Kenya, Owl Innovation Labs in Nairobi, Kenya, RLabs Tanzania in Iringa, Tanzania, and AfriFORTIFIED HUB in Kisumu, Kenya. Southern Africa strengthens its innovation ecosystem with ScaleUp Namibia, affiliated with the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIDPB) in Windhoek, Namibia, OceanHub Africa in Cape Town, South Africa, SU LaunchLab in Stellenbosch, South Africa, and the Graca Machel Trust’s Women Creating Wealth initiative in Johannesburg, South Africa. Central Africa welcomes four new hubs: Ovation and KIVUTECH, both French-speaking, in Kinshasa and Bukavu, DR Congo, respectively; Revival Innovation Hub in Bua, Cameroon; and DIAMBILAY BUSINESS CENTER in Lubumbashi, DR Congo. “We are truly inspired by the remarkable growth of our network, which showcases Africa’s boundless potential and innovation,” said Mayssa Mrabet, AfriLabs Director of Community. “Each new hub enriches our community with unique perspectives and opportunities, and we are particularly excited to expand our presence into new regions and cities, including the vibrant city of Stellenbosch in South Africa. Together, we are not just expanding—we are shaping a dynamic and resilient ecosystem that will catalyze transformative change across the continent.”With the addition of these hubs, AfriLabs continues to strengthen its presence across the continent, fostering a collaborative environment where innovators, entrepreneurs, and creatives can thrive. The network’s expansion is a testament to AfriLabs’ commitment to supporting the growth of Africa’s technology and innovation ecosystem, creating pathways for inclusive development and regional integration. About AfriLabs AfriLabs is the largest network of technology and innovation hubs across Africa, driving the growth of Africa’s innovation ecosystem. With a mission to support the development of the African technology and innovation ecosystem, AfriLabs connects hubs and other stakeholders to facilitate collaboration, resource sharing, and knowledge transfer. Follow AfriLabs on social media at @afrilabs and visit our website, www.afrilabs.com to learn more. For media inquiries, please contact pr@afrilabs.com & comms@afrilabs.com
Unlocking Youth-Centric Innovation for Youth Empowerment: The Role of an AUC Innovation Lab
Unlocking Youth-Centric Innovation for Youth Empowerment: The Role of an AUC Innovation Lab Africa stands at the cusp of a transformative era, driven by the boundless potential of its youthful population and the burgeoning innovation ecosystem. As we look towards the future, the African Union Commission (AUC) is taking bold steps to harness this potential through the establishment of an AU Innovation Lab. Anchored in the 1 Million Next Level Initiative’s Youth-centric innovation principle, this initiative aims to propel the continent into a new age of technological advancement, sustainable development, and socio-economic growth. The AU Innovation Lab: A Vision for Africa’s Future Implemented by the AUC’s Women, Gender and Youth Directorate, and scheduled to be discussed in-depth during a virtual panel on 15th August 2024, the AU Innovation Lab represents a significant milestone in Africa’s journey towards self-reliance and global competitiveness. This virtual panel, themed “Youth-centric Innovation – the Role of an AU Innovation Lab,” will bring together a diverse group of young innovators, thought leaders, and stakeholders from across the continent to explore the Lab’s potential in shaping Africa’s innovation landscape. Empowering Africa’s Youth with 1 Million Next Level One of the key focuses of the AU Innovation Lab is youth empowerment and development, particularly through the “1 Million Next Level” initiative. This initiative is designed to provide opportunities for 300 million young Africans in areas such as education, employment, entrepreneurship, and engagement. Africa’s youth, who make up a significant portion of the continent’s population, are seen as the driving force behind its innovation and development. The Lab aims to provide these young minds with the tools, resources, and platforms they need to turn their ideas into impactful solutions. By fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, the AU Innovation Lab seeks to address some of the most pressing challenges faced by African societies, including unemployment, healthcare, education, and environmental sustainability. A Collaborative Approach The success of the AU Innovation Lab hinges on collaboration. By bringing together stakeholders from various sectors, including government, private industry, academia, and civil society, the Lab aims to create a holistic and inclusive innovation ecosystem. This collaborative approach will ensure that the solutions developed are not only innovative but also scalable and sustainable. The virtual panel discussion will highlight the importance of such partnerships and explore ways to strengthen them further. Aligning with the AU’s Agenda 2063 The establishment of the AU Innovation Lab aligns seamlessly with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 – a strategic framework for the socio-economic transformation of the continent over the next 50 years. Agenda 2063 envisions an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena. The Innovation Lab is a key component in achieving this vision, as it seeks to harness the power of technology and innovation to drive development across various sectors. Join the Conversation The upcoming virtual panel discussion promises to be a pivotal moment in Africa’s innovation journey. By participating, stakeholders will have the opportunity to share their insights, experiences, and aspirations for the AU Innovation Lab. The online event will not only shed light on the Lab’s objectives and strategies but also inspire a collective commitment to fostering a culture of innovation across the continent.We invite all innovators, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and enthusiasts to join us on 5th August 2024 for this groundbreaking event. Let us come together to unlock Africa’s potential and pave the way for a brighter, more innovative future. Register Now To be a part of this transformative conversation, register for the virtual panel discussion on “Youth-centric Innovation – the Role of an AU Innovation Lab” by clicking here. Together, we can shape the future of Africa through innovation and collaboration. Register Now!
Celebrating from Clicks to Progress with the world’s digital-first youth population – Happy International Youth Day
Celebrating from Clicks to Progress with the world’s digital-first youth population – Happy International Youth Day On this International Youth Day, AfriLabs is proud to amplify the voices of our dedicated team as they reflect on the theme “From Clicks to Progress.” Across Africa and the diaspora, young people are not just embracing the digital age—they’re redefining it. Through their energy, innovation, and commitment, they are turning online engagement into tangible progress that is transforming communities and industries. Our team members share their thoughts on the power of youth and how their work at AfriLabs aligns with this year’s theme, highlighting the pivotal role that digital connections and actions play in shaping a better future. Paul Chioba -Nigeria International Youth Day is a vibrant celebration of the incredible potential and contributions of young people worldwide, recognizing their energy, creativity, and passion in driving positive change. This year’s theme, “From Clicks to Greatness,” captures the essence of our digital age, where our connections form powerful networks of like-minded individuals who inspire us. In the people management team, we focus on enhancing productivity, engagement, and inclusion within digital teams, while cultivating a positive work culture to achieve our organization’s goals through the power of our clicks. Let’s harness our collective energy and creativity to turn our clicks into impactful actions. Youth Day represents a celebration of the energy, innovation, and potential of young people. It’s a day to acknowledge the challenges they face and to empower them to shape a better future.” The theme “From Clicks to Progress” resonates deeply with me because it highlights the journey from digital engagement to real-world impact. In my work and experience, this theme reflects the transition from online interactions like supporting and engaging communities to tangible outcomes, such as fostering collaboration, driving social impact, leadership and building sustainable initiatives that leads to meaningful progress. Miguel Nyamedi – Ivory Coast Miguel Nyamedi – Ivory Coast Youth Day represents a celebration of the energy, innovation, and potential of young people. It’s a day to acknowledge the challenges they face and to empower them to shape a better future.” The theme “From Clicks to Progress” resonates deeply with me because it highlights the journey from digital engagement to real-world impact. In my work and experience, this theme reflects the transition from online interactions like supporting and engaging communities to tangible outcomes, such as fostering collaboration, driving social impact, leadership and building sustainable initiatives that leads to meaningful progress. Ruth M’kala – Zambia To me, Youth Day is a reminder and a moment of reflection on what ‘Clicks’ (decisions and actions) I’m making today that will will ‘Progress” not only my future, but the future of the world. As the saying goes, “Young people are the leaders of tomorrow.” This day prompts me to consider how I’m branding and positioning myself to become the leader that tomorrow both needs and deserves. I have intentionally chosen to align myself with AfriLabs because, who better to partner with in building the Africa we aspire to than a Pan-African organization committed to that very vision? Youth to me is more so a state of mind than a slice in time. It is the disposition to colour outside of the lines, and to stump on puddles even if you’re wearing a suit. I guess it’s about allowing your imagination space to play, and I couldn’t imagine any other way to be. For me, from Click to Progress represents a change of power from the pen to the computer. If books like the Eastern sutras and Plato’s Dialogue defined the first age of knowledge, then the next will be defined by the aggregate of all our daily clicks. So far, I think it’s clicking in the right direction. William Moore -Nigeria William Moore -Nigeria Youth to me is more so a state of mind than a slice in time. It is the disposition to colour outside of the lines, and to stump on puddles even if you’re wearing a suit. I guess it’s about allowing your imagination space to play, and I couldn’t imagine any other way to be. For me, from Click to Progress represents a change of power from the pen to the computer. If books like the Eastern sutras and Plato’s Dialogue defined the first age of knowledge, then the next will be defined by the aggregate of all our daily clicks. So far, I think it’s clicking in the right direction. Kolawole Oladejo – Nigeria As vital contributors to the world’s future, we bear immense significance. The well-being of current and upcoming generations rests upon us. Embracing digital technologies has positively influenced my work, enhancing productivity and effectiveness. The theme deeply resonates with my role at AfriLabs, where we drive innovation across Africa’s tech and innovation ecosystem, impacting millions of youth through programs focused on climate change (such as the “climate adaptation and innovations” that supports startups in expanding their footprint on the continent), the green economy, fellowships, and internships, etc. Our commitment remains steadfast, and I hope this celebration inspires young people to embrace leadership and take ownership across all sectors and regions. Celebrating the international Youth day “from clicks to progress” . Recognizing Our Potential As young people, we’re often dismissed or overlooked. But International Youth Day is a reminder that we have so much to offer. We’re innovative, passionate, and ready to make a difference. On this day celebrates our boundless potential and encourages us to keep striving to make a real impact in our world today. My reflection on the theme, click to progress. Think about it- every time we click “submit’’ or “post”, we’re not making a personal choice, but contributing to the ever- evolving tapestry of human innovation and achievement. From the entrepreneur launching a new business venture to the student exploring educational resources, the power of click is universal, bridging the gap between our ambitions and their realization. Isaac Belombo – Cameroon Isaac Belombo – Cameroon Celebrating the international