The MCW Global Young Leaders Conference in Kenya 2025 presents a unique, Fully Funded Opportunity for young changemakers from East Africa who are passionate about advancing mental health advocacy in their communities. This international Leadership Program is specifically designed for professionals, students, and community organizers actively working in the mental health space, offering them an intensive platform for personal growth, collaboration, and project implementation.

Hosted in Nairobi, Kenya, this high-impact conference is part of the “Sawa Project,” a powerful initiative by MCW Global in partnership with the Kofi Annan Foundation and the Africa Alliance of YMCAs. It brings together committed youth between the ages of 25 and 35 for a transformative learning experience combining in-person training, virtual engagement, and practical application of ideas through project development.

The conference seeks to foster leadership rooted in empathy, resilience, and a deep understanding of mental health issues across African societies. Through a combination of expert-led sessions, collaborative activities, and mentorship opportunities, participants will be empowered to become frontline advocates addressing the stigma around mental health and developing inclusive, community-based solutions.

Program Details

Host Country:
Kenya

Program Location:
Nairobi

Host Organizations:
MCW Global, The Kofi Annan Foundation, Africa Alliance of YMCAs

Program Dates:
September 3 – 5, 2025 (In-person conference)
September 20 – October 20, 2025 (Post-conference webinars)

Program Themes or Focus Areas:

• Mental health awareness and advocacy

• Youth engagement and empowerment

• Community leadership

• Sustainable project implementation

• Cross-cultural collaboration

Benefits

• Full funding for participation in the three-day Leadership Program

• Travel coverage for all selected participants (airfare or ground transportation)

• Accommodation and meals during the in-person conference in Nairobi

• Access to expert-led sessions, learning materials, and mental health advocacy tools

• Eligibility for seed funding grants of up to $1,000 for 10 outstanding project proposals

• Post-conference support, including personalized mentorship from mental health professionals

• Certification upon completion of the program

• Long-term engagement in an alumni network of mental health advocates across East Africa

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be aged between 25 and 35 years at the time of the conference

• Must hold citizenship in one of the following East African countries: Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda, Somalia, Tanzania, or Uganda

• Demonstrated involvement in mental health fields—through academic studies, employment, volunteering, or community organizing

• A strong commitment to social change and cross-cultural collaboration

• Availability to attend the full in-person conference and three follow-up webinars

• Interest and ability to design and submit a project addressing mental health needs in their local context

• Regular access to email and a reliable internet connection for the post-conference activities

• Completion of a full application with required supporting documents by the deadline

How to Apply

1. Visit the official program website or MCW Global’s online portal.

2. Complete the online application form in English.

3. Provide basic information including name, age, nationality, and current role or position.

4. Thoughtfully answer all essay questions related to your interest in mental health and leadership.

5. Prepare and upload the following required documents:

   • Updated Resume or CV

   • Copy of a valid passport

   • Relevant supporting materials (optional but encouraged)

6. Carefully review all information, agree to the terms and conditions, and submit the application before the deadline.

Application Deadline

May 23, 2025

Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next phase of selection.