Regional Associate (West Africa)

About YouLead

YouLead is committed to supporting the political and economic integration of young people across Africa. Over the past eight years, we have primarily focused on East Africa, expanding to the continental level in 2020. Our work centers on reflection, sensitisation, and popularisation of key regional and continental policy frameworks. In 2026, to mark the 20th anniversary of the African Union Youth Charter, YouLead will conduct continental consultations assessing the Charter’s implementation at national, regional, and continental levels. These consultations aim to strengthen youth participation in governance and enhance regional coordination across Africa. 

About the Role

YouLead is seeking a Regional Associate – West Africa to support the implementation of the African Union Youth Charter and coordinate youth-led engagement in the region. This is a part-time, entry-level role for early-career professionals passionate about youth governance and policy advocacy.

 Key Responsibilities 

• Map and identify youth-led and youth-serving organizations in West Africa relevant to the African Union Youth Charter.
• Support the establishment of a West African consortium of youth-led and youth-serving organizations focused on youth governance, participation, and policy advocacy.
• Coordinate consortium activities, including: Responding to inquiries from members and stakeholders, setting up and managing a WhatsApp communication group and providing guidance, information, and networking opportunities.
• Co-design and support the organization of one virtual regional consultation on the African Union Youth Charter in West Africa.
• Document consultation processes, capturing key discussion points, outcomes, and participant engagement.
• Liaise with consortium members and partners to support narrative reporting on consultation and engagement activities.
• Collaborate with consultants or partners on Youth Charter-related initiatives.
• Carry out other relevant tasks as assigned by the YouLead Projects Coordinator or Program Manager.
• Submit monthly activity reports outlining progress against deliverables. 

Required Qualifications & Experience 

• A Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, International Relations, Development Studies, Public Policy, Law, Social Sciences, or a related field.
• Candidates in their final year of study or recent graduates are encouraged to apply.
• Additional training or certification in youth leadership, governance, civic engagement, or policy advocacy is an added advantage. 

Core Competencies 

• Early-career professional with interest in youth governance, policy advocacy, or leadership programs.
• Strong communication, coordination, and networking skills.
• Experience engaging with youth-led or youth-serving organizations is an advantage.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines.
• Comfortable using digital communication tools (WhatsApp, email, virtual meeting platforms). 

Application Instructions

Interested candidates should submit:

• A cover letter demonstrating their suitability for the role
• A comprehensive curriculum vitae highlighting relevant technical expertise

Application Deadline

The deadline for submissions is midnight on February 20th, 2026, East African Time (EAT). 

Please be advised that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment.