Youth Leadership Program 2026 – 2027

Call for Applications – Youth Leadership Program 2026 – 2027

Youths from: MZIMBA, MZUZU, KASUNGU, CHITIPA Applications for the 2026 Going Beyond Youth Leadership program are now open. Join the movement!

Emerge Livelihoods in collaboration with Digital Opportunity Trust, and the Mastercard Foundation is proud to announce that applications are now open for the Youth Leadership Program 2026-2027. Part of the Going Beyond Project, this transformative initiative aims to equip young graduates with the skills, knowledge, and resources needed to drive social change and foster entrepreneurship in their communities.

About the program: The Going Beyond – Partnering for a Youth-Led Future project is a partnership between DOT and the Mastercard Foundation that aims to scale DOT’s evidence-based, peer-to-peer model and will be executed in four African countries – Côte d’Ivoire, Malawi, Zambia, and Tanzania. Over five years, and with the support of DOT regional hubs in Africa, the Going Beyond project will progressively transfer the responsibility for delivering DOT’s programs and equip youth as leaders of the future.

Who can apply?

• A Malawian National or legal resident of Malawi, aged between 18-35
• Current residents of Mzimba (in T/A’s Mzukuzuku, Mmbelwa and Chindi), Mzuzu (in Kholongo Ward, Kazando Ward, Masasa Ward, Sonda Ward, Mchengautuwa Ward, Zolozolo West and East, Chibavi and Katoto Ward), Kasungu (in T/A’s Lukwa, Kaomba, Chilowamatambe and Nyanja-Nkhamenya) and Chitipa (in T/A’s Mwaulambiya, Mwenemisuka and Mwenewenya)
• Recent university or college graduates from accredited institutions with a certificate, diploma, or bachelor’s degree (within 6 months and five years of graduation)
• Certificates from credible Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs in relevant subjects may be accepted
• Fully available for the duration of eight (8) months for training and placement period April to December 2026
• Access to a basic smartphone or laptop and possess basic computer skills
• Able to communicate fluently, both orally and in writing, in the local language
• Demonstrated leadership and passion for community development and entrepreneurship
• History of or passion for community engagement activities
• Unemployed or underemployed (underemployment = working part-time or in a job not fully utilizing your skill set)
• Commitment to participate fully in the program

Deployment requirements: Following their selection, Youth Leaders will participate in program activities within their own communities. Emerge Livelihoods is committed to supporting local leadership development and does not require relocation.

To apply link is here Link