Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Program 2027: Fully Funded Opportunity
Applications are open for the 2027 Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Program, a fully funded leadership development opportunity for young changemakers from Sub-Saharan Africa. Organised by the AFS Youth Assembly with support from the Sir Cyril Taylor Charitable Foundation, the programme aims to equip young African leaders with the knowledge, skills and resources to create sustainable change in their communities.
The third edition will select 10 young African leaders aged 18 to 35 who demonstrate leadership potential, a commitment to sustainable development and an interest in addressing challenges affecting their communities. Successful applicants will participate in a 12-month programme featuring virtual learning, leadership workshops, international networking and seed funding for community impact projects.
The programme offers an opportunity for emerging leaders to strengthen their capabilities, connect with peers from around the world and develop initiatives that contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
About the Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Program
Launched in 2025, the Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Program recognises young people who are committed to making a positive difference in their communities. The initiative combines leadership development with practical support to help participants turn ideas into meaningful action.
Previous editions selected young leaders from countries including Uganda, Kenya, Nigeria, Mali, South Africa, Ghana, Malawi and Namibia. According to the programme announcement, the second edition attracted almost 6,000 applications, demonstrating strong interest in opportunities that support young African changemakers.
For 2027, the programme will select 10 participants who will join the growing network of Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders.
Program Benefits
The 12-month programme is fully funded, covering participation in the programme’s specified activities. Successful candidates will receive the following benefits:
1. AFS Global Competence Certificate
Participants will enrol in the AFS Global Competence Certificate (GCC) programme. Delivered virtually before the Youth Assembly, this learning opportunity is designed to strengthen intercultural understanding and develop competencies that support effective leadership in diverse communities.
2. Leadership Preparation Workshops
Selected participants will take part in preparatory workshops before attending the Youth Assembly. These sessions will help them prepare for the international programme and make the most of the learning and networking opportunities available.
3. Participation in the AFS Youth Assembly in Switzerland
Participants will attend the AFS Youth Assembly in Switzerland in August 2027. The international gathering brings together young leaders, changemakers and other participants to exchange ideas, develop skills and explore solutions to global challenges.
The programme covers travel and accommodation costs associated with participation in the Youth Assembly. Participants will also receive special recognition during the event’s closing ceremony.
4. Effect+ in the Community Workshop
The programme includes an intensive Effect+ in the Community workshop in Switzerland in August 2027. This workshop will help participants develop practical changemaking skills and learn how to turn their ideas into actionable community initiatives.
After returning home, participants will be expected to replicate the workshop in their communities, reaching at least 100 young people each. This approach aims to extend the benefits of the programme beyond the selected participants.
5. Seed Funding and Mentorship
Participants will develop and implement their own community impact projects after the Youth Assembly. Seed funding will support these initiatives, while mentorship and guidance from the AFS Youth Assembly Impact Network will help participants work towards their objectives.
The impact projects will run for six months, allowing participants to apply their learning to real community challenges.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the 2027 Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Program, applicants should meet the following requirements:
- Be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Be from a Sub-Saharan African country.
- Demonstrate leadership qualities or a proven record of leadership experience.
- Show potential for personal and professional growth.
- Hold a valid, unexpired passport.
- Be proficient in English at an intermediate level.
- Demonstrate an interest in global affairs, sustainable development and youth issues.
- Be available to attend the AFS Youth Assembly in Switzerland in August 2027.
Applicants who are already leading social impact projects connected to the Sustainable Development Goals are preferred. However, the announcement does not state this as a compulsory requirement.
Candidates should ensure that they can travel internationally and attend the programme in person.
Application Deadline
The application deadline is 19 November 2026 at 23:59 UTC. The organisers encourage early applications because visa processing may take several months. Applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Applicants should prepare their submissions carefully and present their leadership experience, community involvement and proposed impact clearly. The organisers have also stated that the use of artificial intelligence to write application narratives is highly discouraged. Candidates should therefore ensure their responses reflect their own experiences, ideas and authentic voices.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can apply online through the official application form.
Before submitting an application, review the eligibility criteria and ensure that you can attend the Youth Assembly in Switzerland in August 2027.
Final Thoughts
The Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Program 2027 offers emerging African leaders an opportunity to strengthen their leadership skills, access mentorship and seed funding, and develop projects that benefit their communities.
With only 10 places available, eligible candidates should review the requirements and submit their applications before the November deadline. For young people committed to sustainable development and community transformation, the programme could provide valuable international exposure and practical support for creating lasting impact.
