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Tag: LEAP Africa

  • LEAP Africa, Dow donate solar-powered digital libraries schools

    LEAP Africa, Dow donate solar-powered digital libraries schools

    • By Igbang Juliet Ikedie

    Access to digital education received a boost in Lagos as LEAP Africa, in partnership with Dow Chemical and TEM Nigeria, inaugurated two solar-powered digital libraries for public schools, benefiting over 300 students.

    The digital libraries were officially handed over at Onike Girls High School, Yaba, and Hope Nursery and Primary School, Ikoyi, as part of efforts to bridge the digital divide and strengthen foundational education among underserved communities.

    The initiative provides students with access to child-friendly tablets preloaded with curriculum-aligned learning content, secure internet connectivity, and suitable learning furniture. Solar-powered systems were also installed to ensure uninterrupted access to electricity for digital learning.

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    Speaking at the handover ceremony, Executive Director of LEAP Africa, Kehinde Ayeni, described the project as an investment in the future of young learners.

    “This digital library represents more than devices and internet access; it is an investment in the potential of young minds. Through partnerships like this with Dow Chemical, we can create sustainable learning environments that empower children and educators alike,” Ayeni said.

    Also speaking, Managing Director of West Africa and Africa Head of Sustainability and Strategy at Dow Chemical, Adebisi Adeoti, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to education and community development.

    “At Dow, we believe that access to education and digital skills is critical to building resilient communities. This project reflects our commitment to preparing the next generation for the future,” Adeoti noted.

    The Vice Principal of Onike Girls High School, Mrs. F. O. Alabi, expressed appreciation to the partners and assured proper use and maintenance of the facility.

    Teachers and students in the beneficiary schools are expected to gain improved access to digital tools, interactive learning resources, and early exposure to STEM education, thereby enhancing academic performance and digital literacy.

    LEAP Africa disclosed plans to scale the initiative to more public schools across Lagos through partnerships with organisations committed to digital inclusion and sustainable education.

  • LEAP Africa commits to youth transformation, others

    LEAP Africa commits to youth transformation, others

    Executive Director of LEAP Africa, Kehinde Ayeni has pledged the organisation’s commitment to youth-led transformation. This is just as Managing Director of JNC International and Board Chair of LEAP Africa, Clare Omatseye, emphasised need for collaboration for innovation and transformation.

    They spoke at the 12th LEAP Africa’s Social Innovators Programme and Awards (SIPA) in Lagos, with theme:  “Africa as the Sector: Maximising Possibilities through Technology, Finance, and Policy.”

    The gathering brought together leading innovators, policy shapers, financiers, development partners, and ecosystem builders to reassert Africa’s position as a global powerhouse of possibility.

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    It  explored how Africa, long framed as an emerging market, must be recognised as a sector of creativity, investment, and transformative influence, driven by ambitious and technologically enabled young innovators.

    The event featured prominent speakers and ecosystem leaders, who shared insight on unlocking Africa’s potential through systemic investment and policy alignment.

    They underscored a pledge to strengthening Africa’s innovation infrastructure and catalysing collaboration.

    Participants engaged in parallel Solution Labs: NYFF Hackathon, led by Elizabeth Agbiti-Douglas, director of  Nigeria Youth Futures Fund; UNDP-led solutions lab on “Creative Expressions as Catalysts for Location-Specific Progress”; and Enterprise Support Organisations Collaborative Session, led by Karina Karunwi, Regional Chapter Head of West Africa.

  • Leap Africa, others seek bigger green jobs market

    Leap Africa, others seek bigger green jobs market

    LEAP Africa has called on Nigerian youths to position themselves for opportunities in the emerging green economy, with the potential to boost the country’s gross domestic product (GDP), raise income per capita, and tap into millions of jobs expected to emerge in the sector over the next five years.

    Research by FSD Africa and Shortlist projects that the continent could create 3.3 million green jobs by 2030, with 60 per cent being skilled or white-collar roles. Globally, the green transition—driven by the shift from fossil fuels to sustainable energy—could generate 27 million jobs in the same period, with Africa playing a significant role if key barriers are addressed.

    Speaking at the 2025 Youth Day of Service (YDoS) press conference in Lagos, LEAP Africa’s Director of Programmes, Amabelle Diana Nwakanma, stressed that Nigeria must bridge its green skills gap to fully benefit from these opportunities.

    “The shortage of workers with the skills needed for the green transition is becoming increasingly evident. Addressing this gap requires a holistic approach that aligns global trends, government policies, business needs, education providers, and labour markets,” ,” Nwakanma said

    Read Also: LEAP Africa, JAN empower educators in Sokoto

    She noted that the push for environmental action is no longer optional, citing the influence of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), tightening Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) regulations, and growing demand from consumers and job seekers for sustainability-driven businesses.

    Over the years, LEAP Africa has inspired and equipped over 50,000 young people and social entrepreneurs to lead ethically and drive community transformation. Through YDoS, the organisation has mobilised thousands of young people across 28 African countries to implement 301 projects covering all 17 SDGs. These initiatives have included climate action rallies, tree planting in nine countries, and waste collection drives in eight countries.

    The 2025 edition of YDoS is supported by Dow Africa, a global leader in materials science. The company’s Managing Director for West Africa, Adebisi Adeoti, reaffirmed Dow’s commitment to empowering Africa’s youth and advancing the SDGs.

    “Dow is proud to partner with LEAP Africa to inspire young leaders across the continent to take action towards achieving the SDGs by 2030.We have supported initiatives ranging from relief efforts in low-income Nigerian communities to funding STEM teacher recruitment, training, and placement in underserved schools in Lagos,”  Adeoti said.

    According to Adeoti, preparing young people for the future of work is critical given the constant shifts in the global economy. “We are equipping students with the skills and experiences needed to succeed in the workforce and address the challenges facing our world,” he added.

    He also highlighted Dow’s efforts to promote a circular economy for plastics and reduce plastic waste and pollution. By working with enterprises, academic institutions, and industry associations, the company is supporting waste management infrastructure, recycling, and sustainable business practices in Nigeria.

    Both LEAP Africa and Dow Africa believe that with the right investment in skills and infrastructure, Nigeria can secure a significant share of Africa’s green job growth—unlocking opportunities for its young population while contributing to a sustainable future.

  • LEAP Africa, foundation to drive jobs, others

    LEAP Africa, foundation to drive jobs, others

    LEAP Africa has partnered  with the Mastercard Foundation to enable young people across Africa to access dignified and fulfilling work through the Mastercard Foundation Associates Programme.

    This was stated at a networking event in Lagos, to advance the impact of the Mastercard Foundation Associates Programme.

    Over the past year, the programme has facilitated the placement of over 1,200 Mastercard Foundation Programme Associates across 15 countries in Africa, including South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, Kenya,

    Botswana, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and Zambia.

    Organized alongside Jobberman and other implementing partners, the event brought together Mastercard Foundation Associates, employers,  and key stakeholders to review progress, and discuss innovative approaches to enhancing workforce readiness and creating sustainable employment opportunities for young people in Africa.

    The programme is aimed at  equipping young

    professionals with real world experience, empowering them for long term career success.

    Executive Director of LEAP Africa, Kehinde Ayeni said Africa’s youth are the driving force behind economic transformation, thus the programme goes beyond job placements.

    “It is about building sustainable career pathways that lead to long term fulfillment. At LEAP Africa, we’ve witnessed the remarkable growth of Associates, who have gained essential skills, expanded their networks, and acquired invaluable workplace experience,” she said.

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    The event featured a dynamic panel session with employers and Mastercard Foundation Associates, who shared firsthand experiences and reflections on the Mastercard Foundation Associates Program’s impact over the past year.

    Programme Coordinator, Jobberman, Toluwani Aina who was on the panel said:

    “The talent emerging from the Mastercard Foundation Associates Programme is exceptional. Mastercard Foundation Associates have demonstrated remarkable skills, adaptability, and a strong work ethic, proving that with the right opportunities, young professionals can excel in any industry. Hiring through the Mastercard Foundation Associates Program has been transformative for our organisation, and we look forward to welcoming more associates in the future.”

    Select associates delivered heartfelt testimonials, showcasing how the programme has shaped their professional journeys.

    One of the Mastercard Foundation Associates, Elizabeth Ajiboye said: “The Mastercard Foundation Associates Programme has opened doors I never thought possible. The mentorship, exposure, and networking opportunities have positioned me for greater career prospects. I’m excited to take the next steps, knowing I have the right support system in place.”

    As the  programme concludes its third cohort,similar networking events are being held in multiple countries where it is being implemented, including Ghana, Kenya, South Africa and Senegal, reinforcing a unified, pan-African approach to addressing youth unemployment.

  • LEAP Africa shows further commitment to impactful change with 11th awards

    LEAP Africa shows further commitment to impactful change with 11th awards

    LEAP Africa has hosted the 11th Social Innovators Programme and Awards (SIPA) at West Africa Deal Summit, on Victoria Island, Lagos.

    This year’s event:  “Actions to Deepen Catalytic Capital in West Africa,” attracted thought leaders, impact investors, and social innovators.

    SIPA celebrates young changemakers by equipping them with skills and resources to establish sustainable social enterprises. Twenty social innovators from Africa were welcomed into the programme, marking LEAP Africa’s further commitment to fostering impactful, long-term social change.

     This transformative journey culminated  in an annual conference and awards that honours participants’ achievements.

    A pivotal point this year was the breakfast meeting with Chair of Nigerian National Advisory Board, Mrs. Ibukun Awosika, who addressed participants’ questions on importance of embedding social equity and local insight into their enterprises.

     “To create lasting impact, the best business model must directly solve a real problem and offer an economically viable solution,” she said.

    Board Chair of LEAP Africa, Mrs. Clare Omatseye, noted importance of showcasing Africa’s pioneering social innovatorse making transformative impact on the continent.

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     “We are proud to showcase Africa’s trailblazing social innovators who are transforming communities on the continent. By empowering these leaders and strengthening connections with impact driven investors, we are catalysing a future of sustainable, inclusive growth for Africa,” she said.

    Executive Director, Kehinde Ayeni, praised the partnership between LEAP Africa and Impact Investors Foundation.

    She stressed importance of collaboration in advancing social innovation and the transformative potential of organisations uniting for a common cause.

    The event included an award ceremony celebrating achievements of social innovators. Outstanding Fellow Awards were given to Asiimire Justine, and Adaeze Akpagbula for their solutions to localised challenges.

    The Innocent Chukwuma Award for Youth and Gender Empowerment in Southeast was received by Uche Udekwe for his work through Natal Care, and The Seyi Bickersteth Award for Financial Accountability was awarded to Mago Hasfa for upholding financial accountability, transparency and sustainability in social enterprise.

  • LEAP Africa, JAN empower educators in Sokoto

    LEAP Africa, JAN empower educators in Sokoto

    By Abdulrasheed Akere

    LEAP Africa, in partnership with Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN)  has trained 100 teachers from 10 government secondary schools in Sokoto State.

    The  week-long training programme was  aimed at enhancing  the capabilities of educators in preparation for the implementation of the innovative iLEAD curriculum.

    The iLEAD programme focuses on empowering students in underserved communities for successful post-secondary transitions and enable teachers to become exemplary mentors. It is positioned to bring positive changes to the educational landscape of Sokoto State and create a more conducive learning environment, contributing to overall improvements in educational outcomes in the region.

     To ensure the success of the programme, a comprehensive training-of-trainers  was organised for teachers in underserved public schools in Sokoto.

    Speaking at the training, Rufai Mustapha, one of the teachers, expressed appreciation for the initiative, emphasising its uniqueness and relevance in the region.

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    “This is the first of its kind for most of us; we are excited to learn and, in turn, impact  students in our different schools,” he said.

    Various topics covered during the training included psychosocial support for teenagers, effective communication, introduction to entrepreneurship, values, creative teaching methods, morals and ethics, and “What’s my Advantage,” among others.

    Experts from LEAP Africa and JAN facilitated the sessions.

    Facilitators included Joy Amanabo, Simisoluwa Abraham, Haruna Godiya, Aniebiet Udokang, Anthonia Nnabuko, Ahmed Umar, Aminu Shanga of Digital N Research Limited, and Oluwaseyi Hassan, Michael Ijiko from JAN.

    The collaboration between LEAP Africa and JAN demonstrates a shared commitment to advancing education and empowering teachers.

    JAN Acting Executive Director, Olaolu Akogun, said:”As an organisation dedicated to equipping young people with skills necessary for their success, we are excited to partner with LEAP Africa on this initiative. We understand the crucial role of educators in transforming entrepreneurship education in schools, and we see this week-long programme as a channel to empower teachers on entrepreneurship skills  to equip young people. We are confident that this collaboration will have a significant impact on the lives of students in Sokoto.”

    The  initiative stands as a testament to  LEAP Africa’s commitment to creating a brighter future for the students and communities they serve.

    According to the organisers, the impact of the  training  is expected to resonate not only in the participating schools but  in the broader educational ecosystem of the state.

  • Akwa Ibom youths win awards at LEAP Africa, Union Bank event

    YOUTHS  from Akwa Ibom State have been rewarded at this year’s Social Innovators Programme and Awards (SIPA), organised by Leadership, Effectiveness, Accountability and Professionalism (LEAP) Africa, in partnership with Union Bank Nigeria Plc.

    Founder of LEAP Africa Mrs. Ndidi Nwuneli said the organisation was a non-profit concern committed to developing dynamic innovation and principled African leaders.

    She spoke at the Emerald Events Centre, Uyo, the state capital, at the 12th edition of SIPA, with the theme: “Building Communities”.

    Three Fellows; Buba Imrana, founder of My TV My School Initiative; Adeloye Olarenwaju, founder of SaferMom and Okocha Nkem, founder of Mamamonrize won 1,000,000 each from Union Bank for their socially-driven initiative.

    Nineteen Fellows graduated for completing the 2015/2016 Fellowship programme.

    The young men and women were said to have achieved much in their organisations.

    Awards of recognition were presented to five young entrepreneurs from Akwa Ibom State.

    Nwuneli said SIPA was one of the programmes of LEAP Africa, adding that it recognises and rewards creative and innovative individuals, who concluded the organisation’s one year Fellowship.

    Explainig further, the founder said such initiative provide solutions, tackle community social needs and promote social inclusion.

     

  • Stanbic IBTC, LEAP Africa partner on 2016 CEOs forum

    Stanbic IBTC, LEAP Africa partner on 2016 CEOs forum

    Stanbic IBTC Bank and LEAP Africa, a leadership development non-profit organization, are partnering to organize the 11th edition of the CEOs Forum, with a focus on how small businesses can attract funding for sustainable growth.

    The CEOs Forum, which was initiated in 2005, brings together local and international speakers for knowledge sharing with entrepreneurs on building sustainable local businesses. The event is targeted at SME founders, captains of industry, private and public sector leaders as well as CEOs drawn from different sectors of the economy. The forum is currently organized as an annual event within the SME space.

    With the theme, “Attracting financing for your business: strategies and opportunities,” the forum is slated for Lagos on June 2, 2016, and will attract eminent speakers from different sectors of the economy, including Bismarck Rewane, CEO, Financial Derivatives Company Ltd; Yewande Sadiku, Executive Director, Stanbic IBTC Bank; and Tayo Oviosu, Founder/CEO, Paga Technology.

    Mr. Yinka Sanni, Chief Executive, Stanbic IBTC Bank, welcomed the collaboration, which he said is in line within Stanbic IBTC Bank’s commitment to helping Nigeria attain her developmental aspirations, while delivering long-term value to customers, partners, businesses, professionals and the economy at large.

    “We value this partnership with LEAP Africa, especially as the focus of this year’s forum resonates well with our own goal of building a new cadre of leadership among business leaders in Nigeria and Africa,” Yinka Sanni stated.

    Executive Director, LEAP Africa, Mrs. Iyadunni Olubode, said underlining this year’s theme is the recognition that many Nigerian entrepreneurs struggle with sourcing funding due to both internal and external challenges.

  • Sterling Bank, LEAP Africa partner

    Sterling Bank has promised LEAP Africa, a leadership development non-profit organisation, that it will  partner the group as long as it continues to help develop entrepreneurship in the country.

    The bank’s Executive Director, Sulaiman Abubakar, said Sterling Bank is partnering LEAP for the second year running to show its commitment towards creating an enabling environment for entrepreneurs to operate in the country.

    His words: “We are not involved in this to show off. We are in it to show to people that it is not only money that drives Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), but others like good book keeping; developing robust business plan, effective corporate governance and finally funding make an enterprise to be successful not funding alone.

    “We have seen over the years that businesses fail not because there was no money in them, but because they were not operated with best practices. That is why we, as a bank, are facing training and retraining of entrepreneurs to be able to equip them with the needed skills to run their companies.

    “We will do whatever that is possible to help SMEs. You cannot expect to fund SMEs today and expect to start making money immediately. It is a process.”

    Executive Director, LEAP Africa, Mrs. Iyadunni Olubode, said underlining this year’s theme is the recognition that many Nigerian entrepreneurs struggle with sourcing funds due to both internal and external challenges.

    However, successful business development requires additional sources of capital to support growth and enable strategic investments. LEAP Africa, she said, is available to help business owners gain deeper insight and acquire the relevant skills in entrepreneurship and business.

  • LEAP Africa advocates entrepreneurial training

    A non-governmental organi-sation, LEAP Africa, has urged graduates to embrace afterschool entrepreneurial and leadership training to be self-reliant after graduation.

    LEAP Africa Programme Officer, Mrs Chinenye Etoniru, gave the advice at the end of the entrepreneurial and leadership training by the NGO, tagged ‘School to Work Employability Programme.’

    Etoniru said the programme, co-sponsored by Citi Foundation, is a yearly event targeted at reducing the rate of unemployment among youths, especially graduates.

    “The programme is an opportunity for youths to learn entrepreneurial, leadership, conflict resolution and other helpful skills, like personal branding, before or in the process of searching for their desired career,” she explained.

    Etoniru noted that there was high rate of graduate unemployment in the country and the reason is not because there are no jobs, but because some young people are not qualified.

    “It is not enough to graduate from school alone, but to be armed with the necessary skills that would make one get and retain a job,’’ she said, adding that 80 participants are taking part in this year’s edition of the programme.

    A participant, Miss Damilola Dada, said the courses in the programme had equipped her with basic skills to help her with getting a job and retaining it. She said she hopes to further her education, and also establish a business.

    Dada added that should she not get a job, the entrepreneurial skills would help her to establishe her business. Similarly, Mr. Benjamin George, a graduate of accounting, said the week-long programme had assisted  in his career.