This exceptional cohort will be held under the high patronage of French President Emmanuel Macron and Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina.

The French-African Foundation is seeking 30 outstanding young professionals from Africa and France to join this year’s cohort. The program aims to strengthen impactful Franco-African partnerships across various sectors. The 2025 edition, themed “Lead with Purpose”, is a call to action—encouraging leadership driven by responsibility, commitment, and the power to inspire and unite.
 

Eligibility Criteria:
- Age: 28 to 40 years old in 2025
Nationality of an African country of French nationality.
- Professional experience: At least 5 years, demonstrating leadership and impact.
- Languages: Proficiency in English (mandatory); French is an asset.
- Sectors: Arts, sports, entrepreneurship, executive roles, diplomacy, politics, activism, journalism, and other impact-driven fields

A high-level jury, composed of distinguished public and private sector leaders, will select the final cohort.

Voices from the Young Leaders Community

Aïssa Ndiaye, alumna and member of the Board of Directors of the French-African Foundation, enphasizes:
"The Young Leaders program embodies a strong belief: today's leadership must be guided by responsibility and commitment. ‘Lead with Purpose’ is not just a theme—it is a call to unite, innovate, and build lasting bridges between France and Africa. Through this edition, we aim to spotlight a generation of change-makers shaping a more inclusive and impactful future."

On Madagascar as the host country, Nachouat Meghouar, CEO of the French-African Foundation, highlights:

"Madagascar represents African excellence through its entrepreneurial dynamism, rich culture, and unique craftsmanship—the ‘Vita Malagasy.’ As the largest island on the continent and a strategic hub in the Indian Ocean, it is home to talents and success stories that resonate far beyond its borders. With strong historical ties to France, the country attracts numerous investors and innovators across various sectors. Honoring Madagascar means recognizing its key role in Africa’s economic and cultural landscape."

Founded in 2019, the French-African Foundation is dedicated to empowering a new generation of engaged African and French leaders who drive positive impact. The Foundation champions excellence in Franco-African partnershipswhile showcasing African and French successes. Since 2024, the Foundation has also organized AFRICA Day, the largest youth gathering in France celebrating African excellence, in partnership with Sciences Po. In 2025, AXIAN, the pan-African giant in telecommunications, energy, and financial inclusion, becomes a co-organizer of AFRICA Day, reinforcing its commitment to celebrating African excellence and showcasing the continent’s success stories on the global stage.

With a vibrant network of 182 alumni, previous Young Leaders editions have been held under the high patronage of the French President, as well as the Presidents of Ghana (Nana Akufo-Addo), Senegal (Macky Sall), and Rwanda (Paul Kagame).

The Young Leaders Program is supported by public and private sector partners, including:
Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, TV5 Monde, Orange, Africa Global Logistics, Danone, Total Energies, Concerto, Bpifrance, Boston Consulting Group.

Apply online here : www.french-african.org/yl2025