IMAGE: bird story agency
For International Youth Day, bird story agency spoke to young Africans about the continent in which they want to build their futures — and what stands between their generation and that vision.
Observed every 12 August since the United Nations General Assembly established it in 1999, International Youth Day centres young people’s experiences and their role in shaping society. The stakes are especially high in Africa, the world’s youngest continent: the United Nations says 70% of sub-Saharan Africa’s population is under 30. UN population projections have also shown that Africa’s population aged 15–24 is growing faster than that of any other region, placing the continent’s future increasingly in young hands.
Across these responses, young people return to the same unfinished work: converting education into opportunity, talent into livelihoods and political promises into meaningful participation. They also describe what gives them hope: their generation’s creativity, resilience, entrepreneurship and willingness to build solutions at home.
Benin
Adechinan Alabi, 19, aspiring civil engineer, Cotonou, Benin
“I wish to thrive in an Africa where integration and peace are improving, a continent that offers more opportunities to its youth. I dream of an Africa where young people’s skills are truly valued. I want to pursue my studies in civil engineering, deepen my expertise in the building sector, and ultimately become a professional capable of contributing to the development of modern and sustainable infrastructure and construction projects in my country and the sub-region.”
“In one phrase, our biggest hurdle is the lack of employment and adequate resources to carry out our projects.”
“One of the biggest challenges facing young people is the lack of employment and adequate resources to carry out our projects, despite the great potential of youth.”
Adechinan Alabi, Cotonou, 9 August 2026 (Ola Falola, bird story agency)
Bana Tchoumon, 25, aspiring entrepreneur, Cotonou, Benin
“I want to grow and prosper in a continent where I can contribute to informing, supporting, and advocating for young people in the professional environment. I deeply believe that a young person who knows their rights, is well-informed, and receives appropriate support is better equipped to build their future.”
“In one phrase, our biggest hurdle is the poor awareness of our rights, injustice, abuses, and harassment in the workplace.”
“Through my future project, I would therefore like to participate in creating a fairer, more respectful, and more supportive professional environment for young people. My goal is not only to succeed for myself, but also to use my experience and skills to make a tangible contribution to my generation.”
Bana Tchoumon, Cotonou, 9 August 2026 (Ola Falola, bird story agency)
Burkina Faso
Inoussa Belgo, 30, fashion designer and patternmaker, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
“I would begin by saying that we need a peaceful Africa, free from conflict. Such an environment allows every young person to find ways to realise their ambitions and pursue their projects.”
“Whatever the circumstances, however, young people must keep fighting and believe in the work they are doing. Not believing in it means living without hope and preparing for failure.”
“I am a fashion designer and patternmaker, and I have my own workshop, but things are not always easy. Despite the financial difficulties, I keep going. I currently make clothes using traditional fabrics, particularly Faso Dan Fani and Kokodonda.”
“Ultimately, I dream of a peaceful Africa where youth entrepreneurship is treated as a national priority and supported with financing.”
Inoussa Belgo, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, 10 August 2026 (Raphaël Aspavati, bird story agency)
Christine Zongo, 24, entrepreneur, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
“What I want is for my country, Burkina Faso, and Africa to be at peace. With war, we young people cannot build businesses properly and prosper. You wake up in the morning and learn that your brother or another family member was killed the previous day. That destroys your motivation.”
“I also want Africa to become genuinely self-reliant and independent—not merely on paper, as it is today. This would give our governments the freedom to make sound decisions in the interests of young people.”
“At present, the conditions young people need to thrive in their businesses or secure decent work are not all in place. We are simply finding ways to survive, and that is what we call resilience in Burkina Faso. We refuse to accept defeat.”
“I make traditional fabrics such as Kokodonda and also provide training. Despite the many difficulties, I manage to keep the business going and sell my products. Some customers want to come and buy from me but are afraid because of the insecurity.”
“That is why I place such emphasis on peace. With determination, prosperity will follow.”
Christine Zongo, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, 10 August 2026 (Raphaël Aspavati, bird story agency)
Burundi
Chrétienne Nikuze, 23, slam poet, actress and cultural administrator, Gitega, Burundi
“I dream of a Burundi where young women can pursue their ambitions without being constrained by social norms. Women are still judged according to stereotypes that restrict their freedom and careers.”
“A woman who returns home from work at 11 p.m. is often judged negatively, even if she is travelling with male colleagues.”
“In the arts, I have already been asked whether I would abandon my career after getting married. Yet art is precisely how I hope to become a woman whose work is recognised in Burundi and internationally.”
“What gives me hope is the progress women are making in politics, the arts and technology. Burundian women artists have succeeded in establishing themselves abroad, while young women have developed an application that enables young people to access mental-health services remotely.”
“I want to see the borders between African countries disappear because they restrict the movement of people, ideas and talent.”
Chrétienne Nikuze, Gitega, Burundi, August 10, 2026, (Ferdinand Mbonihankuye, bird story agency)
Simon Carmel Ntwari, 29, artist and artistic director of UrundiSpace, Gitega, Burundi
“I want an Africa without borders. The lack of opportunities and poor governance are among the greatest obstacles facing young people in Burundi.”
“Funding intended for young people is not always allocated transparently. We need projects that are open to all young people, regardless of their province or social background.”
“My eight years of experience in the cultural and creative industries give me hope. Together with my business partner, I support young artists working in comedy, theatre and the visual arts.”
“I believe in collective effort. I want to see more festivals, exhibitions, concerts and theatre productions in Burundi. Culture can help build a generation that is freer, more creative and more engaged.”
Simon Carmel Ntwari, Gitega, Burundi, August 10, 2026 (Ferdinand Mbonihankuye, bird story agency)
Cameroon
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Thomas Ndifon, 30, security guard, Yaoundé, Cameroon_
“It would be interesting to build a future in an Africa where good governance—transparency, accountability, and providing basic needs like water and electricity thrives, but these are lacking. It would be impossible to build a future in Africa without good leadership. Leadership skills are absent in Africa. The better young people train themselves in leadership skills, the better for Africa. Taking the private security sector as an example, there is poor leadership and bad governance. Much is demanded of security guards, but the pay is not commensurate, and leaders fail to encourage security guards to put in more effort.”
“In one phrase, the biggest hurdle for today’s youth is a lack of skills.”
“Looking at the educational system in Africa, there is more focus on theory than practical learning or skills, taking Cameroon as an example. Young people go to school to acquire certificates and lack ideas and know-how to start their own business. This is one of the reasons most young people remain unemployed and stay in jobs that are not fulfilling and in the private and informal sector. Young people need more skills to acquire the available jobs especially with the world going digital. There is a reason to hope, with young people having space to express themselves and engage on social media, and they should also tap into the digital space.”
Thomas Ndifor, Cameroon, 9 August 2026 (Leocadia Bongben, bird story agency)
Etoundi Eyenga, 20, footballer, Yaoundé, Cameroon
“It is depressing that young people would rather lounge around the house, refuse to go to school or work, and turn down opportunities; instead, they turn into criminals and robbers. These days, young people desire support and chances, but they don’t put in enough work to earn it. It would be interesting to build a future in an Africa where young people invest in their future by trying out a trade, attending school, and playing football, just like me, to be deserving of assistance. Parents would be inspired to provide boots and a kit to support the dream of a young person to become a professional footballer when they perform well in school.”
“Making their parents proud is, in short, the biggest hurdle for young people.
The goal of every young person is to make their parents proud. Instead of pressuring their children into the occupations they want, which sometimes has disastrous results, parents should let their children explore their ideas and pursue their dreams. Even if getting employment now relies more on relationships and placements, young people should be ready when opportunities arise. This generation needs to realise that they must start somewhere and that they shouldn’t feel guilty that others mock them. There is hope when young people realise they have to put in a lot of effort to achieve their goals.”
Eyenga Etoundi, Cameroon, 9 August 2026 (Leocadia Bongben, bird story agency)
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Alima Genevieve Kavugho, 31, agro-food entrepreneur, Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo
“I want to build my future in a Central Africa where young people can seize opportunities, learn practical skills and turn what they have into something useful. For me, that Africa would look like a carrot. I started adding carrots to my passion-fruit juice after I stopped using colouring and powdered products that I bought from shops. The carrots give my drinks a natural colour, and I now use them in all my natural beverages as part of my commitment to my customers’ wellbeing.”
“In one phrase, our biggest hurdle is the high cost of opportunity.”
“One of the biggest challenges for young people is our education system, which does not encourage enough young people to learn practical trades from an early age. In my own business, I also lack the financial and material resources to grow. We still do much of the production by hand, and I need more training in natural beverage production, better equipment and packaging.”
“I keep going because of my faith and the opportunities and people Allah places on my path. One day, Insha’Allah, I hope to train other young people and encourage them to believe in practical skills and never give up.”
Alima Kavugho, Goma, 8 August 2026 (Andrino Akuda, bird story agency)
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Alex Bahati Kapene, 23, web and mobile developer, Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo_
“I want to build my future in an Africa where a young developer can make a living from their skills without having to leave the continent to succeed. An Africa where we trust our own talent as much as we trust developers from elsewhere.”
“For me, that means reliable internet and electricity, even in smaller cities, and local companies trusting local developers to build their digital solutions. Young people also need more practical training. I learned more from YouTube and teaching myself than I did at school, where some of the technologies we were taught were already outdated. The cost of internet and equipment is another major barrier. I had to save for months to buy my first decent computer.”
“What gives me hope is seeing young Africans building solutions for problems around them, from mobile payments to agriculture and transport. We are no longer waiting for solutions to come from outside; we are creating our own.”
“I want to train other young people and eventually build a tech company that shows local businesses what local talent can do.”
Alex Kapene, Goma, 10 August 2026 (Andrino Akuda, bird story agency)
Ethiopia
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Eyayu Alemayehu, 25, lecturer, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia_
“As a lecturer, I see the paradox of being young in Africa every day. I am surrounded by immense intelligence and a hunger for knowledge, yet there is a significant gap between what students learn and the opportunities available to them once they leave university.”
“The pressure to succeed while facing high unemployment or underemployment is overwhelming. Our education systems were designed for an era that no longer exists and do not adequately support job creation. Young people are overqualified and underutilised.”
“In one phrase, our biggest hurdle is the irrelevance of the existing curriculum.”
“I want to build my future in an Africa where education is a genuine path to empowerment and problem-solving—not simply a certificate collected to please one’s parents.”
“The resilience and curiosity of my students excite me. They are not asking for handouts; they are asking for skills. My biggest reason for hope is that we are beginning to reject old formulas and define success for ourselves. We are finding innovative ways to apply knowledge to solve local problems.”
Eyayu Alemayehu, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 8 August 2026 (By Ayele Addis, bird story agency)
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Meselech Zelalem Kiddus, 24, communications expert, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia_
“The biggest reality check for young Africans is the extent to which our environment determines our trajectory, regardless of how hard we work.”
“For those of us working in communications and media, digital tools offer powerful ways to connect, but restrictive regulatory environments and the high cost of data often create barriers. We are forced to innovate from the outset—not only because we are creative, but because our survival depends on it.”
“Access to investment and platforms that can amplify our stories remains extremely limited. This is a challenge shared by young people across many sectors.”
“In one phrase, our biggest hurdle is the systemic gatekeeping of resources.”
“The Africa I want to build my future in is one where young storytellers have genuine narrative sovereignty—where we own our platforms and data, and communications infrastructure is treated as a public utility rather than a luxury.”
“My biggest reason for hope is the borderless solidarity I see online. Young Africans are using social media to support one another’s causes and create new digital economies beyond the control of traditional politics. We are not waiting; we are connecting.”
Meselech Zelalem Kiddus, African Union headquarters, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 8 August 2026 (By Ayele Addis, bird story agency)
Ghana
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Daniel Oye, 29, full-stack developer, Accra, Ghana_
“I want to build an Africa where young people can dream, where hard work actually pays, and where resources are given to young people to realise their dreams.”
“I want an Africa where not only your background or connections can take you as far as you can go, but also where resources are given to young people to succeed.”
“As someone who is interested in technology and development, I want to be able to use my skill sets to help the health sector, to help the agric sector, where IT or technology can be used to help reduce the workload on our farmers, where students will be able to use technology to facilitate their academics.”
“I want to build an Africa where the only hope for the young ones is to stay and build, and not to live abroad to seek greener pastures, where young people can come together and set up companies, infrastructures which helps develop the country as a whole.”
“The biggest hurdle for young people in Africa these days, or nowadays, is the limited access to resources. My biggest reason for hope is our creativity, our resilience, and our skill set that we have to build a better Africa, rather than waiting for a change.”
Daniel Oye, Accra, 9 August 2026 (Sefakor Fekpe, bird story agency)
Jessica Michelle Akakpo, 18, senior high school graduate, Accra, Ghana
“I want to build my future in an Africa that gives opportunity, a place where your background does not decide your ceiling, but a place where your work, your ideas, and ambition gives you the opportunity to explore more and bless Africa with it.”
“I want a place where kids do not just memorize for exams. A place where they learn how to build, repair, and think critically. I want a place where Africa can find their own music, food brands, and also apps.
A place where we stop trusting imported goods and start trusting our own stuff, a place. Whether it’s assurance that a young teacher, a young doctor, or a nurse can qualify to a big position without knowing a minister, this is the Africa I want to build my future in.”
“Now, the biggest hurdle for today’s youth is the gap between talent and infrastructure. The biggest hurdle for today’s youth is the gap between talent and infrastructure.”
“My biggest reason for hope is that young Africans are building things even without a perfect system. So, imagine with a perfect system what Africa will be. Thank you.”
Jessica Michelle Akakpo, Accra, 9 August 2026 (Sefakor Fekpe, bird story agency)
Côte d’Ivoire
Nourah Guei, law student, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
“I would like to build my future in a free Africa—an Africa that frees itself from old mindsets and the belief that ‘we cannot succeed’. I also want an Africa that looks towards future opportunities: an innovative Africa that prioritises sustainable development.”
“For me, what young people lack today is access to information. Young people are connected, but they do not always know where to find the information they need. There is also a lack of training. Information and training are what young people need.”
“But I believe Africa is moving towards development and that we will be the hope of tomorrow.”
Nourah Guei, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, 9 August 2026 (Akoi Mel Hervé, bird story agency)
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Koffi Boris, soft skills expert, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire_
“I want an Africa that is genuinely economically self-sufficient. By this, I mean an Africa capable of producing its own raw materials, processing them and exporting them.”
“Today, African countries have opened their doors to investors because they lack resources. This may make strategic sense, but governments must also put policies in place to ensure that these investors contribute to the development of African youth. If the investors leave Africa one day, young Africans should be able to reproduce what they have learnt from them and help move Africa’s economy forward.”
“In terms of education, training and youth employability, I would like our policymakers and governments to genuinely involve young Africans in decisions affecting their lives. Young people should be able to explain what training they actually need. Across Africa, education is still generally too theoretical. This does not adequately prepare young people for employment or support their entry into the labour market, which is highly competitive and demands practical skills.”
“We need an Africa that gives its young people quality training, particularly practical vocational training that responds to the real needs of the labour market. If we have a well-functioning economy and locally owned businesses that process our raw materials, those businesses will need to employ large numbers of young people. If those young people are skilled and properly trained, industry and the economy will grow naturally and rapidly, enabling Africa to develop sustainably.”
“One of the greatest obstacles facing young people today is political. Many young Africans are afraid of politics and reluctant to become involved. That is already a barrier because, if you do not participate in political decision-making, you can only live with the decisions made by others.”
“We must create systems that allow young people to express their views and contribute their ideas. This would help create a more open political system. Young people must also be heard in education and the workplace because, at present, they are not being listened to.”
“Governments decide, for example, to build schools and develop training programmes that do not respond to the actual needs of the labour market. Young people must then live with the consequences. This is a major barrier.”
“It often seems that decision-makers make all the decisions while young people are pushed aside. There is no meaningful exchange between young people and those in power.”
“Another challenge young people face is not being heard by society more broadly. When a young person speaks out against a situation, they are immediately labelled rebellious and may be punished. In reality, young people need the freedom to express themselves. Today, growing numbers of young Africans feel unable to speak openly.”
Koffi Boris, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, 9 August 2026 (Akoi Mel Hervé, bird story agency)
Kenya
Judith Ogwora, 27, nutritionist, Nairobi, Kenya
“The Africa I want to build my future in is one where healthy food is seen as a necessity, not a privilege. Working in nutrition has shown me that many families assume eating well is only for people with money, yet some of the most nutritious foods are already available in local markets and on farms. The challenge is that people often lack the information and support needed to turn those foods into balanced diets.”
“For me, the biggest obstacle is the gap between what we produce and what we understand.”
“I want to see greater investment in nutrition education and in adding value to Africa’s agricultural products. When farmers earn more and households learn how to use affordable local foods effectively, we can improve health and create economic opportunities at the same time.”
“What gives me confidence is the growing number of young professionals connecting agriculture, nutrition and entrepreneurship. I believe our generation can build a future in which local food systems become a source of both good health and prosperity.”
Judith Ogwora, Nairobi, Kenya, 10 August 2026 (Bonface Orucho, bird story agency)
Basil Augustine, 28, director and videographer, Nairobi, Kenya
“I hope to build my future in an Africa where people do not have to struggle for basic services that should already exist. My work takes me into different communities, and what affects me most is seeing how inadequate water and sanitation shape people’s everyday lives.”
“During a recent documentary shoot, I met an elderly woman carrying water from a kiosk to her home. We paused filming so I could help her. That moment reminded me that development is ultimately about whether ordinary people can live with dignity.”
“The biggest challenge I see is the failure to deliver essential services consistently.”
“What keeps me hopeful is the creativity I see among young Africans. Across the continent, young people are designing solutions, organising communities and using technology to solve practical problems.”
“If that energy is matched by accountable leadership, I believe we can build cities and villages where clean water, sanitation and other essential services are not exceptions, but everyday realities.”
Basil Augustine, Nairobi, Kenya, 10 August 2026 (Bonface Orucho, bird story agency)
Lesotho
Tumisang Mohasi, 29, spaza shop owner, Khubetsoana, Lesotho
“I would want to build my future in an Africa where there is peace, where countries are not defined by boundaries or borders, and where we all understand that each country needs one another to prosper economically. I would like to build my future in an Africa where Black people are there for each other, rather than against each other. An Africa where we all have equal access to everything, including land, especially for young people, so they can venture into agriculture, just like we are always told Africa was once a giant when it came to farming. I want an Africa where older people and leaders believe in the youth, and invest in young people for the benefit of the continent.”
“What pushes me every day is the environment I live in. I still believe that as the youth, we can do better and build the Africa we want, starting by getting rid of corrupt leaders who only think of themselves and their pockets.”
Tumisang Mohasi, Maseru, Lesotho, 8 August 2026 (Ntsoaki Motaung, bird story agency)
Prudence Nthane, 22, unemployed, Khubetsoana, Lesotho
“I do not have an ideal Africa to build my future in because I do not see myself living in Africa. I simply do not believe Africa can be changed. I really do not see Africa progressing. We face so many challenges, including high unemployment and high rates of drug abuse, and no one is doing anything about that. There are only statements made and reports released with high statistics, but there is no action toward actually confronting the problems, so they continue to escalate.”
“What is currently motivating me is my mother, who is always working hard and fighting for whatever she believes in. It is always so motivating and inspiring, she is such a strong woman.”
Prudence Nthane, Maseru, Lesotho, 8 August 2026 (Ntsoaki Motaung, bird story agency)
Malawi
Lonely Titaniah Mbewe, 22, journalism student, Blantyre, Malawi
“I would like to build my future in an Africa where young people do not have to leave their countries to find opportunities or think that success is only possible outside their home country. As a Journalism student, I want to live in an Africa where education actually opens doors, where young people are able to find stable employment, create businesses and use technology & innovations to build sustainable livelihoods.”
“Personally, the biggest hurdle that young people face today is the gap between our potential and the available opportunities to us. Young people have ideas, ambition, skills and even passion to achieve different goals but we struggle to find jobs to turn what we learn in school or the ideas we have into meaningful careers.”
“However, I still remain hopeful and expectant because I see young Africans creating opportunities for themselves through creating businesses, telling stories and also using digital platforms in ways that can change communities. I want to be one of those young people, not the one that waits for Africa to change but the one that helps it change.”
Lonely Titaniah Mbewe, Blantyre, Malawi, August 2026 (Benson Kunchezera, bird story agency)
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Ranken Chisambi, 23, Healthcare Innovator, Blantyre, Malawi_
“I want to build my future in an Africa where young people are supported to turn their ideas into practical solutions that improve people’s lives. As a healthcare innovator, I have seen many young Africans develop creative ideas that could address challenges in our hospitals and communities. However, limited funding, equipment, mentorship and access to innovation spaces often prevent these ideas from becoming real products that reach the people who need them.”
“In one phrase, the biggest hurdle facing today’s youth is the gap between talent and opportunity.”
“I want an Africa that invests in young innovators, supports local manufacturing and gives young people a meaningful role in solving the continent’s challenges. My biggest reason for hope is the creativity and determination of young Africans. Despite limited resources, we continue finding new ways to solve problems and create opportunities. I hope to contribute by developing affordable healthcare technologies that are designed and manufactured in Africa, while also helping other young innovators transform their ideas into solutions with lasting impact.”
Ranken Chisambi, Blantyre, Malawi, 9 August 2026 (Benson Kunchezera, bird story agency)
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Mali**
Aissata Aly Toure, 26, agribusiness entrepreneur, Bamako, Mali
“I want to build my future in an Africa where young people feel they can create their own paths rather than having to leave the continent to find opportunities.”
“I studied in England and had the opportunity to work there after graduating. However, I eventually left my job and returned to Mali because I felt I had more to contribute here. For me, Africa is not simply where I come from; it is a place filled with possibilities waiting to be developed.”
“My journey also took me to China, where I was selected to participate in a programme for young African women entrepreneurs. During the two-week programme, I visited companies, met businesspeople and entrepreneurs, and built a valuable professional network.”
“The experience broadened my understanding of entrepreneurship and allowed me to see first-hand how China supports entrepreneurs, develops businesses and creates an environment in which ideas can grow. It strengthened my belief that African countries can also build ecosystems that give young people the tools and opportunities to turn their ideas into sustainable businesses.”
“Today, as a young agribusiness entrepreneur, I see how much potential Africa has, particularly in agriculture. I also see that many young people have ideas but lack the information, guidance and support needed to turn them into something concrete.”
“I believe that, with the right ecosystem, young Africans can become creators of solutions, businesses and opportunities.”
“In one phrase, the biggest hurdle facing young people today is knowing where to begin and finding the right support.”
“My biggest reason for hope is that young Africans have the ambition to build—and our continent gives us room to create.”
Aissata Aly Toure, Bamako, Mali, 10 August 2026 (Die Sacko, bird story agency)
Abouba Dit Harbert Toure, 27, English-language instructor, Bamako, Mali
“When I think about the Africa in which I want to build my future, I think first about the young people around me. I want to live in an Africa where a young person can have a dream and genuinely believe it is possible to achieve it without having to leave the continent or depend on foreign support.”
“As someone passionate about education and teaching English, I would love to see schools where students do more than memorise lessons. I want them to develop practical skills, creativity, confidence and the ability to solve real problems.”
“I also hope to see more opportunities for young people to establish businesses, use technology and contribute to their communities.”
“Africa still faces challenges, and progress can sometimes seem uncertain. But I believe we have talented, creative and resilient people. What we need is greater support, collaboration and access to opportunities.”
“I want to be part of that change, even if my contribution is small. I want to help young people believe in themselves and see Africa not only as a continent facing problems, but also as one filled with potential and possibilities.”
“In one phrase, the biggest hurdle facing young people today is a lack of opportunities.”
“My main source of hope is Africa’s creative young people, who are capable of developing innovative solutions to the challenges we face.”
Harbert Touré in a street in Badalabougou, a neighbourhood in Bamako, August 8, (Die Sacko, bird story agency)
Nigeria
Ogbodo Raphael, 27, architect, Enugu, Nigeria
“The Africa I want to build my future in is united: an Africa with one economy, one currency and one visa; where tribe and language are not barriers, where we see each other as brothers and sisters, and where peace and love are the order of the day.”
“In one phrase, the biggest hurdle for most young people today is a lack of agency. Artificial intelligence may have expanded access to knowledge, but a lack of personal agency contributes to problems such as drug abuse, unemployment and digital fraud. I believe that strengthening agency among young people would help us tackle many of these challenges.”
“My biggest reason for hope is the emergence of a new generation of African leaders. I believe more young Africans will rise to the occasion and take ownership of their freedom and independence.”
Ogbodo Raphael, Enugu, Nigeria, 9 August 2026 (Toochi Gabriel, bird story agency)
Namani Chisom Amada, 20, model and stylist, Enugu, Nigeria
“I want to build my future in an expressive Africa—one that allows young people to express and fully embody themselves. Many of our creative challenges come from not giving people enough space to do that. I want a diverse, open-minded and expressive Africa.”
“In one phrase, the biggest hurdle for Nigerian youth is economic instability.”
“What gives me hope is seeing the sheer number of creatives striving to make the best of their circumstances. It motivates me to keep pushing, one day at a time, and to be great.”
Namani Chisom Amada, Enugu, Nigeria, 9 August 2026 (Toochi Gabriel, bird story agency)
Sierra Leone
Sorina Nena Dumbuya, 22, youth mental health advocate, Freetown, Sierra Leone
“I want to build an Africa where young people are not seen as the leaders of tomorrow, but are given meaningful opportunities to lead today. From my experience, one of the biggest challenges young Africans face is limited opportunities; whether that means access to quality education and skills, decent jobs, or the chance to participate fully in society. I want to see an Africa where young people, regardless of gender or background, can develop their potential without facing discrimination or being excluded from opportunities.”
“What gives me hope is the resilience of young Africans themselves. We are not sitting back and allowing older generations to decide our future for us. Young people are already speaking up and taking action on issues such as climate change, mental health, gender equality and inclusion. I want to build a future where that energy is supported, where everyone has an equal chance to succeed, and where young people can create a place they are proud to call home.”
Sorina Nena Dumbuya, Freetown, Sierra Leone, 10 August 2026 (Eric Kawa, bird story agency)
Abdul Rahman Bangura, 21, content creator, Freetown, Sierra Leone
“I want to build my future in an Africa where young people have equal opportunities to learn, work and use their talents to make a positive impact. As a content creator, I believe digital platforms can play an important role in shaping the future of young Africans. Many young people now use their phones and social media to learn, communicate and express themselves, so we should make better use of these platforms to share useful information, educate and inspire others.”
“One issue I believe needs more attention is misinformation. As content creators, we have a responsibility to be careful about the information we put out because what we share can influence how people think and make decisions. I want to see more young creators using their platforms responsibly, checking facts, sharing accurate information and creating content that encourages positive action. What gives me hope is the creativity and determination of African youth. If we use our voices and digital platforms positively, we can help create a better-informed generation and contribute to the development of our communities and Africa as a whole.”
Abdul Rahman Bangura, Freetown, Sierra Leone, 10 August 2026 (Eric Kawa, bird story agency)
South Africa
Sanelisiwe Mabhanti, 24, Master of Laws candidate, Belhar, South Africa
“Firstly, I think the most common answer would be I’d want to build my future in an Africa that is united. You know, where Africans are not fighting amongst one another, but are working towards building a better future for every African person. Where other continents do not look down on Africa or rather Africa is not just seen as the poorest continent, one that is not progressing.”
“Secondly, I’d want to be part of an Africa that doesn’t grant opportunities based on a person’s skin colour or the kind of background that they come from, but opportunities are granted to those that actually do deserve it. I want to be part of an Africa that prioritises young people. We have Southern African countries such as South Africa and eSwatini, for example, with one of the highest unemployment rates in the world. We have South Africa, for example, sitting in a youth unemployment rate of over fifty percent. And that goes to show that the youth is not prioritised in our countries. The youth is the future and if the youth is not invested in then what kind of Africa are we building?”
Sanelisiwe Mabhanti, Belhar, 9 August 2026 (Someleze Ndede, bird story agency)
Khanya Maqhashalala, 20, Student, Cape Town, South Africa
“I want to build my future in an Africa that is united, peaceful, educated and full of opportunities for young people. I want to see an Africa where students have access to quality education, technology and skills that prepare them for the future. I also want to live in a continent where leaders are accountable, corruption is reduced and public resources are used to improve people’s lives. I also want an Africa where young people are not only seen as future leaders but are given opportunities to lead today. Through education, innovation, entrepreneurship and active citizenship. I believe we can build an Africa where every young person has the opportunity to succeed and contribute to society.”
“The biggest hurdle is lack of opportunities and meaningful employment. The massive reason for hope is the resilience, creativity, and potential of Africa’s youth and people must ensure when they are voting that they take sober decisions.”
Khanya Maqhashalala, Cape Town, 10 August 2026 (Someleze Ndede, bird story agency)
Uganda
Fred Nsamba, 22, printer and graphic designer, Kampala, Uganda
“Just like many other young people like me, we are faced with a public perception that we are not as hard working or innovative as we should be. But that’s the mindset we should fight to change by striving day and night to access as many opportunities as possible.”
“As a young person in the printing and branding industry, I want to use my skills to create jobs, support businesses and provide quality products that tell Africa’s story to the world.”
“If I am given an opportunity to flourish, I can acquire advanced skills in digital design, offset printing and modern branding technologies. With access to affordable financing, equipment and shared workspaces, I can build a competitive enterprise that serves customers locally and across Africa.”
“I believe the biggest hurdle is that in today’s Africa, there are not enough opportunities for young local printers to provide services for public and educational printing.”
“My hope for the future is that the authorities are beginning to see sense in connecting young entrepreneurs to corporate clients, offer them training in e-commerce and support them with affordable workspace and machinery. With such support, I have no doubt that I can create jobs, increase my income and finally escape poverty.”
Fred Nsamba, Kampala, 8 August 2026 (John Ricks Kayizzi, bird story agency)
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Brenda Nantundi, 25, school teacher, Lubowa, Wakiso, Uganda_
“I am proud to be part of the transformation Uganda’s education sector urgently needs. Although I am sometimes faced with lack of motivation, I know I am making my contribution to the knowledge of many pupils. Just like myself, young people should be inspired to see education not simply as a path to employment, but as a tool for solving the challenges facing their communities.”
“Despite all the challenges, I believe education remains one of our strongest tools for transforming Uganda and the whole African continent. The key in all this is mentorship for young people like me, encouraging girls to pursue education and help learners develop skills in innovation, entrepreneurship and critical thinking.”
“As a young person working in Uganda’s education industry, I choose to remain hopeful, even when the journey is challenging. Every learner we empower is a step toward reducing poverty, building a skilled workforce, and creating opportunities for meaningful employment.”
“I choose to use my skills to bring people together, strengthen social unity, and give girls and women like me greater confidence to participate fully in society.”
Brenda Nantundi, Lubowa, Wakiso, 9 August 2026 (By John Ricks Kayizzi, bird story agency)
Zambia
Rabby Sikozi, 23, IT specialist, Lusaka, Zambia
“I want to build my future in an Africa where being young is not seen as a limitation, but as a source of ideas, energy and leadership.”
“As a young Zambian, I have seen talented young people with education, skills and brilliant ideas struggle to find opportunities to turn their potential into impact. That concerns me because Africa does not lack talent; too often, we lack the systems and opportunities that allow that talent to flourish. I dream of an Africa where education leads to opportunity, technology solves real African problems, entrepreneurship is supported, and young people have a meaningful voice in decisions that shape their future.”
“In one phrase, what is the biggest hurdle for today’s youth? “Potential without opportunity.”
“My biggest reason for hope is Africa’s young people. We are one of the most connected, ambitious and innovative generations Africa has ever had. We have access to technology, knowledge and networks that previous generations could only imagine. I see young Africans building businesses, developing technologies, creating solutions and refusing to accept that Africa’s challenges must define Africa’s future. That gives me hope.”
Rabby Sikozi, Lusaka, Zambia, 10 August 2026 (Fumbe Chanda, bird story agency)
Ruth Musakabantu, 25, child rights advocate, Lusaka, Zambia
“The Africa I want to build my future in is an Africa where opportunities are given based on merit, ability and potential, rather than who you know, your social status or who can speak for you. I want to see an Africa where every young person, regardless of their background, has a fair chance to succeed.”
“My belief comes from personal experience. I have seen many young people miss out on opportunities simply because they did not know the right person or did not have someone to speak for them. I have experienced this myself.”
“In one phrase, the biggest hurdle is a lack of connections. Too many young people have the talent and willingness to succeed but lack access to the networks that open doors.”
“My biggest reason for hope is hope itself. Hope allows us to dream, to believe that our circumstances do not define our future and to keep moving forward even when doors are closed—because one day it will make sense.”
Ruth Musakabantu, Lusaka, Zambia, 10 August 2026 (Fumbe Chanda, bird story agency)
Zimbabwe
Tinomudaishe Muzanenhamo, 23, student journalist, Harare, Zimbabwe
“I want to build my future in an Africa with so many opportunities that I do not have to leave home to find them. As a young journalist, I want an Africa where I do not have to choose between speaking the truth and feeding my family.”
“Right now, I see many young people facing serious challenges. Some turn to drugs, others end up in rehabilitation centres, while some resort to stealing simply to survive. I believe this happens partly because young people do not have enough opportunities to explore their talents and build meaningful futures.”
“I also feel that we lack people who genuinely show young people the way forward. Sometimes adults talk to us, but they do not always listen or understand what it means to be young today. From my own experience, people may listen, but they do not always understand the kind of Zimbabwe I want to live in or the future I want to build.”
“Growing up, many of us were told to focus on subjects such as mathematics, science and English. If you did not have a degree or diploma, it often felt as though you had no future. Sports, music and art were largely treated as hobbies rather than potential careers.”
“The Africa I want is one that invests in the talents of its young people. It is an Africa filled with opportunities, where young people can turn their passions into careers and contribute meaningfully to their communities.”
“I want an Africa that protects press freedom, supports young journalists and creates an environment in which we can tell the truth without having to choose between our principles and our livelihoods.”
“If we invest in young people, listen to them and create opportunities for them, we can build the Africa we want—one where young people do not have to leave home to find a future.”
Tinomedaishe Muzanenhamo, Harare, Zimbabwe, 9 August 2026 (Lovejoy S. Mutongwiza, bird story agency)
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Tatenda Wachenuka, 32, development practitioner and founder of the Young Women’s Pink Foundation, Harare, Zimbabwe_
“The Africa I want to build my future in is one where young people, especially young women, are not forced to choose between their safety and their dreams.”
“In Zimbabwe, I have seen how economic hardship, unemployment and gender inequality limit opportunities for many talented young people. Too many face violence, discrimination and exclusion from decision-making, while climate shocks continue to threaten livelihoods in rural and urban communities.”
“The Africa I want is one where governments invest in young people, women and girls participate equally in leadership, and communities value justice, accountability and human dignity.”
“I want to see young innovators creating jobs instead of searching endlessly for them, particularly by tapping into emerging opportunities in technology, digital innovation and the responsible development of Africa’s critical-minerals sector. These sectors have the potential to drive industrial growth, create sustainable livelihoods and unlock opportunities for the next generation.”
“Rural communities are often left out of efforts to adapt to climate change. They should be equipped with the knowledge, resources and opportunities they need to adapt, benefit from value addition and make use of local resources.”
“I hope future generations will inherit a continent where peace, equality and opportunity are realities, not aspirations.”
“Africa’s greatest strength is its young people. If we invest in their leadership and ideas and give them access to growing sectors such as technology and minerals, Zimbabwe and the continent can build a more just, inclusive and prosperous future.”
“In one phrase, the biggest hurdle facing today’s youth is economic exclusion and limited opportunities.”
“My biggest reason for hope is the resilience, creativity and determination of Zimbabwean and African youth, who continue building solutions despite the challenges they face.”
Tatenda Wachenuka, Harare, Zimbabwe, 9 August 2026 (Lovejoy S. Mutongwiza, bird story agency)
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