Co-Creation and Youth Mentorship: A Transformative Approach by the AYPReS Programme

The recent launch of the African Youth Pathways to Resilience and Systems Change (AYPReS) Programme marks a pivotal development in the promotion of youth-centred research and actionable initiatives across the African continent. This milestone was achieved through a collaborative workshop held in Accra, Ghana, which successfully brought together research teams from various countries, representatives from the Mastercard Foundation, and the programme implementation team. Central to this endeavour was a systemic co-creation process that prioritised joint ownership, shared learning, and inclusive dialogue, particularly among young women and men.

The emphasis on a participatory approach has not only guided the programme’s overarching direction but has also cultivated an atmosphere of trust and synergy among the youth, regarded as vital stakeholders in this initiative. It is this foundation that supports impactful research and catalyses meaningful systems change within the region. A particularly noteworthy feature of the inception workshop was the strong focus on mentorship and capacity strengthening for participants, especially those aged 35 years and below. Through engaging group discussions and interactive sessions, young researchers benefited from direct interactions with esteemed academic professors and subject-matter experts. This intergenerational exchange not only fosters learning and guidance but also actively empowers youth, amplifying their voices while concurrently strengthening their research capabilities.

AYPReS transcends the conventional role of a research programme; it functions as a robust platform for youth-driven transformation. Its objectives are clear: to unlock pathways to dignified employment, enhance resilience, and promote systemic change across Africa. The launch event has indeed set the stage for what promises to be a dynamic and inclusive journey, led by Africa’s burgeoning generation of changemakers.

As the AYPReS programme progresses, anchored in our innovative co-creation approach known as Utafiti Sera, there exists an unprecedented potential for transformative impact, energised by the active engagement of youth. The commitment to nurturing this transformative landscape ensures that the possibilities for African youth are not merely speculative but indeed limitless. In conclusion, the AYPReS Programme demonstrates a confident stride towards a future where young voices are heard and become instrumental in shaping the socio-economic trajectory of their communities and, by extension, the continent.