African Institute For Young People

AIYP

African Institute for Young People (AIYP) is a Pan-African youth-led organization committed to empowering Africa’s next generation through mentorship, advocacy, civic education, and innovation. Rooted in Pan-Africanism, decolonial thought, and African intellectualism, AIYP cultivates young leaders who drive social, political, and economic transformation. Inspired by Frantz Fanon’s words, that “each generation must, out of relative obscurity, discover its mission, fulfill it, or betray it,” AIYP equips young people to reclaim agency, challenge exclusion, and shape inclusive societies. Championing democracy, climate justice, gender equality, human rights, and economic empowerment, the organization operates with principles of Ubuntu and solidarity, grounded in Africa’s heritage and indigenous knowledge systems. Through flagship programs such as Project Vote 263, the School of Governance and Center for Democracy, and the Sandra Sefhako School of Feminism, AIYP mentors young people to lead boldly, innovate, and create sustainable change, preparing a generation ready to shape the Africa We Want.

VISION

To create a continent where Africa’s youth are empowered, engaged, and united, driving transformative change across governance, economy, and climate action. Guided by Pan-Africanism and African intellectual traditions, the African Institute for Young People envisions a self-determined, inclusive, and prosperous Africa—where young leaders apply knowledge, innovation, and solidarity to build a sustainable, equitable, and thriving future for all.

MISSION

Our mission is to transform fighters into thinkers and thinkers into fighters—empowering young people with the courage to challenge injustice, the wisdom to shape ideas, and the skills to build a just, democratic, and self-determined continent. As Samora Machel said, ‘International solidarity is not an act of charity: it is an act of unity between allies fighting on different terrains toward the same objectives.

CORE VALUES

Pan-Africanism – Unity and solidarity across the continent.
Youth Empowerment – Equipping young people to lead and innovate.
Decolonial Thinking & African Intellectualism – Centering African knowledge and homegrown solutions.
Civic Engagement & Democratic Governance – Promoting participation, accountability, and transparency.
Sustainability & Social Justice – Advancing equity, climate action, and resilient communities.
Ubuntu – Fostering empathy, collaboration, and shared responsibility.
Feminism & Gender Equality – Amplifying voices, challenging patriarchy, and empowering all genders.

OBJECTIVES

Empower Youth Leaders – Equip young Africans with skills, mentorship, and opportunities to drive change.
Promote Civic Engagement – Foster active participation, accountability, and democratic governance.
Strengthen Pan-African Solidarity – Build networks and collaborations across the continent.
Advance Climate Justice – Engage youth in sustainable and environmentally responsible initiatives.
Drive Economic Empowerment – Support entrepreneurship, innovation, and inclusive growth.
Champion Gender Equality & Ubuntu – Promote women’s leadership, equality, and community-centered values.

MEMBERSHIP

Who Can Join – We welcome all young Africans, women, persons with disabilities, and anyone who shares our vision of empowering youth and shaping Africa’s future.
How to Apply – Complete our simple membership form to get started and let us know why you want to be part of the movement.
Approval Process – Applications are reviewed to ensure alignment with our mission, and membership is granted to those ready to actively contribute.
What Membership Means – As a member, you’ll engage in mentorship, advocacy, civic education, and youth-led initiatives that make a real impact across Africa.