Deadline: 14 July 2026
Applications are now open for the Regional Community Organizing Institute (COI) 2026, a fully funded leadership and capacity development programme hosted by Yiaga Africa with support from the National Endowment for Democracy (NED). Formerly known as the Youth Organizing School, the programme brings together emerging and mid-career civic leaders from across West Africa to strengthen their skills in democratic leadership, community organizing, and policy advocacy.
The Institute is designed for practitioners working to advance democracy, human rights, good governance, and development in environments where civic space and democratic institutions face significant challenges. It also seeks to strengthen collaboration between Anglophone and Francophone West Africa by building a network of community organizers committed to driving positive change.
Programme Curriculum
Participants will receive practical training inspired by Harvard Kennedy School’s Leadership, Organizing and Action course. Key topics include:
- Community and political organizing;
- Policy advocacy and non-violent action;
- Power mapping and coalition building;
- Gender mainstreaming;
- Online organizing and digital advocacy;
- Negotiation and transnational organizing;
- Leadership and management of civic organisations.
The programme also includes sessions on engaging government institutions, political parties, and regional bodies while strengthening the technical capacity of youth- and women-led organisations.
Benefits
Yiaga Africa will cover all costs associated with participation in the Institute, making it a fully funded opportunity for selected participants.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be from and currently reside in one of the ECOWAS countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, The Gambia,
- Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Côte d’Ivoire, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, or Togo;
- Be 30 years old or younger at the start of the programme;
- Be actively working in democracy, governance, community development, or related fields;
- Be practitioners with demonstrated leadership experience rather than academic researchers;
- Have a good command of written and spoken English or French.
Women and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should complete the ONLINE APPLICATION FORM before 14 July 2026. The application includes applicant information, essay questions, language proficiency, and a personal certification section. Early applications are encouraged due to the competitive selection process.
