The MCW Global Young Leaders Conference 2025 is a prestigious Fully Funded Leadership Program designed to empower emerging changemakers in mental health advocacy across East Africa. Hosted in Nairobi, Kenya, from September 3 to 5, 2025, this impactful program brings together young professionals, students, and community organizers committed to dismantling mental health stigma and building inclusive support systems in their home countries.

Organized through the Sawa Project—a collaborative initiative by MCW Global, the Kofi Annan Foundation, and the Africa Alliance of YMCAs—this opportunity combines in-person training, seed project support, expert mentorship, and post-conference engagement to create long-lasting leadership impact. The program prioritizes cross-cultural understanding, grassroots solutions, and youth-led innovation in the mental health sector.

If you are a young East African leader passionate about transforming how mental health is perceived and supported in your community, this conference is your platform to lead, collaborate, and build a brighter, healthier future.

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

Program Duration:
3 days (in-person), followed by 3 post-conference virtual sessions (Sept 20 – Oct 20, 2025)

Program Type:
Mental Health Advocacy, Leadership Development, Community Engagement

Focus Themes:

• Mental Health Stigma and Awareness

• Youth-Led Community Projects

• Cross-Cultural Collaboration

• Sustainable Leadership and Impact

Benefits

The MCW Global Young Leaders Conference 2025 offers a comprehensive support package to ensure full participation, learning, and implementation success:

• Fully funded attendance at the 3-day conference in Nairobi

• Round-trip transportation (air or road) for all selected participants

• Accommodation and meals during the program dates

• Access to professional speakers, workshops, and interactive modules

• Seed funding grants up to $1,000 for up to 10 standout project proposals

• Personalized mentorship from mental health professionals

• Participation in three virtual webinars post-conference

• Certificate of completion and access to a long-term alumni network

• Exclusive leadership development and networking opportunities

This is not just a conference—it’s a platform to lead real change at the intersection of mental health, community leadership, and global youth collaboration.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for this unique opportunity, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Age Requirement: Between 25 and 35 years old at the time of the conference

• Nationality: Must be a citizen of Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda, Somalia, Tanzania, or Uganda

• Engagement in Mental Health: Actively involved in mental health advocacy, community organizing, academic research, or a related field

• Leadership Commitment: Demonstrate a clear interest in leadership development, cross-cultural understanding, and sustainable community engagement

• Program Commitment:

  • Must be available to attend the full 3-day in-person conference

  • Must participate in three virtual post-conference webinars from September 20 – October 20, 2025

  • Must be willing to submit and implement a mental health project proposal

• Technology Access: Have reliable internet and email access for post-conference communication and coordination

• Application Completion: Must complete and submit all required application components before the deadline

The program seeks diverse voices and lived experiences, particularly individuals who have overcome mental health stigma or are actively advocating for systemic change.

How to Apply

Applications for the MCW Global Young Leaders Conference 2025 are now open and must be submitted online in English. Follow these steps to apply:

1. Access the application portal via the official MCW Global website

2. Create a user account or log in if you already have one

3. Fill in your general information and contact details

4. Thoughtfully answer essay questions (within specified word limits) to showcase your motivation, leadership experience, and community goals

5. Upload the required documents listed below

6. Review the terms and conditions, sign digitally, and click Submit

All responses should be original, specific, and reflect your authentic leadership journey and aspirations. Incomplete or late applications will not be reviewed.

Required Documents

To ensure your application is considered, prepare the following:

• Updated Resume or Curriculum Vitae (max 2 pages)

• Copy of valid passport or national ID

• Any supporting documentation relevant to your work in mental health (e.g., certificates, recommendation letters, media features)

All documents should be in PDF or Word format, and clearly labeled with your full name. File size should not exceed 5MB each.

Selection Process

The selection process is highly competitive and emphasizes impact, innovation, and inclusivity. Applications will be reviewed by a joint panel of representatives from MCW Global, The Kofi Annan Foundation, and the Africa Alliance of YMCAs.

Key evaluation factors include:

• Depth of involvement in mental health and community work

• Clarity and feasibility of the proposed mental health initiative

• Leadership potential and ability to collaborate in cross-cultural contexts

• Motivation for long-term engagement in mental health advocacy

Selected participants will be notified via email and provided with further instructions on travel, preparation, and post-conference expectations.

Application Deadline

May 23, 2025

All applications and required documents must be submitted before 11:59 PM (EAT) on the stated deadline. Late submissions will not be accepted under any circumstances.

About the Organizers

MCW Global

MCW Global is a non-profit organization based in New York that promotes education, health, and leadership opportunities for youth worldwide. Through dynamic programs like the Young Leaders Conference, MCW equips emerging leaders with the tools to drive sustainable community development.

The Kofi Annan Foundation

Founded in honor of the late UN Secretary-General, the Kofi Annan Foundation advances peace, human rights, and inclusive leadership through policy advocacy, strategic partnerships, and youth empowerment initiatives.

Africa Alliance of YMCAs

With a strong presence across East Africa, the Africa Alliance of YMCAs works to build resilient, empowered youth communities through capacity-building, civic engagement, and mental health awareness campaigns.

This unique partnership ensures that the MCW Global Young Leaders Conference 2025 delivers a high-quality, culturally relevant, and impactful experience for every participant.

Why You Should Apply

Mental health remains a critical but underfunded issue across much of East Africa. Stigma, limited services, and lack of public awareness hinder individuals and communities from receiving the support they need. This program gives you a chance to be at the forefront of changing that narrative.

By joining the MCW Global Young Leaders Conference 2025, you will:

• Receive world-class leadership training

• Design and launch your own mental health initiative

• Gain funding, mentorship, and a supportive network

• Strengthen your cross-cultural communication and collaboration skills

• Join a pan-African community of forward-thinking mental health advocates

If you are ready to move from passion to action, this is your moment to lead.

Final Thoughts

The MCW Global Young Leaders Conference in Kenya 2025 is not just a conference—it’s a catalyst for personal growth, professional leadership, and community transformation. Whether you’re a young psychologist, student, activist, or NGO worker, this fully funded opportunity offers the platform, resources, and support to turn your vision into reality.

Take a stand for mental health equity. Build connections that matter. Implement projects that heal.

Apply now and lead the change in your community.