LEAP Africa, Mastercard Foundation To Drive Youth Employment

LEAP Africa, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, has restated its commitment to enable young people across Africa to access dignified and fulfilling work through the Mastercard Foundation Associates Program.

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

Over the past year, the Mastercard Foundation Associates Program has facilitated the placement of over 1,200 Mastercard Foundation Program Associates across 15 countries in Africa, including South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, Kenya, Botswana, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and Zambia.

The event opened with remarks from representatives of the Mastercard Foundation, LEAP Africa, regional partners, leading employers, and government agencies, who underscored the Mastercard Foundation Associates Program’s transformative role in addressing youth unemployment. Kehinde Ayeni, Executive Director of LEAP Africa, emphasised the Mastercard Foundation Associates Program’s far-reaching impact: “Africa’s youth are the driving force behind economic transformation.

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

Following the panel discussion, select associates delivered heartfelt testimonials, showcasing how the Mastercard Foundation Associates Program has shaped their professional journeys. One of the Mastercard Foundation Associates, Elizabeth Ajiboye, reflected.

“The Mastercard Foundation Associates Program 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.”

According to another Associate, “When I joined the Mastercard Foundation Associates Program, I had the qualifications but lacked the practical experience needed to secure a job. This Mastercard Foundation Associates Program changed everything for me. I have gained critical soft and technical skills, and today, I feel confident about my career trajectory. I hope future cohorts continue to benefit from this life-changing initiative.”