ENoP

Training of Trainers (ToT) on Youth and Women Inclusion in Democratic Processes
2025-08-03 08:30 - 2025-08-06 17:00 (Africa/Nairobi) | Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
🗓️ Date: 3-6 August 2025
📍 Location: Nairobi, Kenya
🔗 Organisers: Kenya Parliamentary Human Rights (KEPHRA)
Despite notable progress in Kenya’s democratic journey, youth and women remain significantly underrepresented in formal political spaces, including within political parties. Limited access to civic education, low awareness of internal party structures, and systemic exclusion have hindered meaningful engagement at all levels of governance.
As part of the European Union-funded WYDE Political Parties project, which seeks to empower young women and youth across Africa to take up leadership roles within political parties, the Kenya Parliamentary Human Rights (KEPHRA) aims to develop a national pool of trainers capable of cascading knowledge, skills, and democratic values at the local level.
The overall objective of the Training of Trainers (ToT) is to build the capacity of selected youth and women leaders from various counties to become civic educators and political trainers within their communities. Through this, the initiative seeks to foster grassroots-level understanding of party structures, internal democracy, and broader governance issues.
Specific Objectives

Equip participants with facilitation and training skills to lead local-level civic education sessions.
Deepen knowledge on five thematic areas key to inclusive democratic participation:

Youth Unemployment
Environment
Economy
Rule of Law
Social Justice and Equality

Strengthen understanding of democracy, leadership pathways, and political participation.
Promote peer-to-peer learning, mentorship, and sustainable civic engagement structures.

Expected Outcomes

A trained cohort of facilitators capable of conducting grassroots civic trainings.
Locally relevant action plans developed by each participant for cascading knowledge.
Strengthened community-level awareness and participation in democratic processes.
Increased visibility and legitimacy of youth and women as political actors.

The ToT will be delivered over two days through a participatory and experiential learning approach. Facilitators will use storytelling, case studies, simulations, group work, and community mapping to ensure content is accessible, engaging, and practical.
Participants will receive a detailed training manual and resource toolkit aligned with the five themes and adapted to local realities.
This activity is implemented under the WYDE Political Parties project, aligned with the EU’s strategic objective of strengthening democratic governance and gender equity across Africa. It contributes to broader efforts to foster inclusive political systems, decentralized civic education, and sustainable community leadership.

Amplifying Young Legislators: WYDE Capacity Building Workshop
2025-08-04 08:30 - 2025-08-05 17:00 | Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
A two-day hands-on training to strengthen the parliamentary and policy-making skills of young MPs in Kenya.
🗓️ Date: 4-5 August 2025
📍 Location: Nairobi, Kenya
🔗 Organisers: Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS), Kenya
As part of the ongoing Women and Youth in Democracy (WYDE) – Political Parties project funded by the European Commission, the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) Kenya Office, in collaboration with the Kenya Young Parliamentarians Association (KYPA) and under the lead of the European Network of Political Foundations (ENoP), will host a two-day capacity building workshop for young Parliamentarians in Nairobi, Kenya.
The workshop is designed to contribute towards a set of dialogue and training measures with young legislators that are keen on enhancing the voices of young people within the two tiers of Parliament in Kenya.
A better understanding of roles and procedures and enhanced skills in policy work and communication will enable the participants to fulfil their roles as legislators and people’s representatives more effectively.
The workshop aims to primarily provide a platform where MPs, Senators, selected MCAs, and in general politically active young leaders can deepen their understanding of legislative processes, policy development, harness existing communication pathways, and engage in ideas that can deepen constituency engagement. Ultimately, amplifying the voice and visibility of youth in democratic governance and legislative decision-making remains our ultimate objective.

Day 1 Highlight – Understanding Parliamentary Systems and the Role of Young Leaders in Democratic Governance: Day one will focus on deepening participants’ understanding of Kenya’s bicameral parliamentary system, legislative procedures, and the evolving role of young people in shaping politics and public policy. In addition to young legislators, the day will bring together politically active youth leaders, i.e., party youth league officials, and youth advocateswho are making impact in at the national level.
Day 2 Highlight – Strategic Communication and Policy Advocacy for Young Legislators: The second day will build the capacity of young legislators and youth leaders to communicate among themselves, within the youth constituency and as well with the rest of Kenyans, while influencing political and policy conversations. The sessions will explore how young MPs, Senators, MCAs, and politically active youth can sharpen their public narratives, strengthen digital communication strategies, and connect more meaningfully with their constituents.

For more information, visit:
🔗 https://www.kas.de/en/web/kenia

Africa Women’s Forum 2025
2025-09-05 08:30 - 17:00 | Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
From policy to action: Accelerating women leadership in Africa
🗓️ Date: 5 September 2025
📍 Location: Nairobi, Kenya
🔗 Organisers: The Oslo Center and the Kristdemokratiskt Internationellt Center (KIC)
The Africa Women Forum 2025 is a gathering in Nairobi, Kenya, bringing together women from Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania to talk politics, share ideas, and build connections. Hosted by The Oslo Center and the Kristdemokratiskt Internationellt Center (KIC) under the WYDE Political Parties programme, the forum focuses on boosting women’s participation and leadership in politics.
It’s designed to be a shared space for women active in politics across learn from each other’s experiences and build lasting networks. Through strategic initiatives and multi-stakeholder collaboration, the forum will tackle the structural and cultural barriers that continue to limit women’s access to leadership and decision-making roles. By turning dialogue into action, the event aims to spark real change across East Africa.
Specific Objectives:

Identify and tackle key structural, institutional, and cultural challenges that restrict women’s effective engagement in political leadership.
Generate and share evidence-based knowledge and mentorship strategies to advance women’s political leadership within diverse African contexts.
Create strategies to facilitate ongoing dialogue and knowledge exchange through networking and strengthening commitments to gender equality.

Agenda:
A dynamic day of keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive sessions focused on boosting women’s political leadership across Africa. Around 60 delegates are expected – 40 from Kenya and 10 each from Uganda and Tanzania – coming together to share ideas, build networks, and shape strategies for stronger political participation.
For more information and LIVE streamings, visit:
🔗 https://oslocenter.no/event/africawomensforum2025/

Youth Building Bridges
2025-09-10 08:30 - 2025-09-11 17:00 | Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
Strengthening Inter-Party Cooperation for the Young Generation in Kenya
🗓️ Date: 10-11 September 2025
📍 Location: Nairobi, Kenya
🔗 Organisers: Konrad Adenauer Foundation (KAS)
Kenya’s young political leaders are coming together to chart a bold, collaborative future! On 10–11 September 2025, the WYDE Political Parties workshop will bring youth leaders, policymakers, and key political stakeholders to Nairobi for two days of powerful dialogue, strategic collaboration, and action planning.
Organized by the Konrad Adenauer Foundation (KAS) under the WYDE Political Parties project, led by ENoP and supported by the European Commission, the workshop will explore how young people can bridge divides, counter polarization and radicalization, and build a culture of political cooperation ahead of the 2027 elections.
Anticipated Outcomes

High-Level Opening Session – with leading voices including party leaders, senators, the IEBC, ORPP, and civil society champions.
Panel Debates & Plenaries – Chairpersons of the Youth Congresses will discussion topics on tackling polarization, ethnic politicization, and youth engagement strategies.
Interactive Group Work – Participants will draft cross-party policy briefs, crisis response strategies, and frameworks for youth-led political cooperation.
IPYF Cross-Party Action Resolution Framework – This will be a collaborative outcome to guide cross parties’ political tolerance, inclusivity, and youth-driven reforms.

The workshop will also feature case studies of past dialogue sessions held within Kenya and outside the country, hands-on sessions in policy brief and statement drafting to amplify youth perspectives within political processes and by extension within Kenya’s political and electoral.
As Kenya approaches the 2027 elections, the role of youth in fostering political unity and shaping inclusive policies has never been more critical. This workshop sets the stage for a series of platforms that are meant to consolidate efforts aimed at developing actionable solutions, and strengthening democratic values, ensuring that young leaders are not just participants but key architects of the country’s political future.
For more information, visit:
🔗 https://www.kas.de/en/web/kenia

Regional Conference in Dakar, Senegal: Youth and Women Leaders
2025-09-26 08:30 - 2025-09-28 17:00 | Dakar, Dakar
From 26–28 September 2025, Dakar will host the WYDE Political Parties Regional Conference of Youth and Women Leaders from Political Parties in Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire, organized by IGD and CIS under the WYDE Political Parties Project, led by ENoP and funded by the European Union.
This three-day gathering will focus on the theme: “Integrating Women into Political Parties in Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire”. Participants will exchange experiences, identify challenges, and showcase good practices to strengthen the inclusion of women in political party structures and decision-making.
The conference will bring together 30 youth and women leaders from eight major political parties across Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire, ensuring balanced representation and fostering dialogue on reforms, capacity-building, and inclusive political participation.
By creating a space for reflection and cross-country exchange, the event aims to empower women leaders as drivers of democratic transformation and more representative governance in West Africa.
📍 Date & Venue: 26–28 September 2025, Dakar👥 Organized by l’Institut pour la Gouvernance et le Développement (IGD) & The Centre Party International Foundation (CIS), with the support of ENoP and the European Union

Amplifying Women’s Voice in Parliament: Capacity Building for Female Legislators
2025-10-14 08:30 - 2025-10-17 17:00 | Kenya, Kenya
A KAS–KEWOPA collaboration to strengthen women’s leadership, visibility, and influence in Kenya’s legislative processes
The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS), in collaboration with the Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA), the County Assemblies Forum (CAF), and the Centre for Parliamentary Studies and Training (CPST), hosted a capacity-building workshop focused on enhancing the legislative effectiveness and leadership of women legislators in Kenya.
The five-day programme took place from 14 to 17 October 2025 in Nairobi, bringing together women Members of Parliament and County Assemblies from across the country for intensive training, dialogue, and peer learning.
Despite Kenya’s progressive constitutional and legal frameworks promoting gender equity, women continue to face barriers that limit their representation and influence in governance. This initiative sought to address those challenges by equipping women legislators with the skills, networks, and visibility needed to lead effectively, advocate for gender-responsive legislation, and serve as mentors for emerging women leaders.
Key components of the training included:

Leadership and legislative capacity workshops on policy drafting, party politics, and inclusive governance.
Peer-to-peer exchanges and mentorship sessions connecting seasoned and young women legislators.
Media and communication training to strengthen public visibility and strategic advocacy on gender equity.

By the end of the workshop, participants had strengthened their technical capacity, expanded their support networks, and renewed their commitment to promoting inclusive, representative, and gender-responsive political leadership in Kenya.
📍 Venue: Nairobi, Kenya📅 Dates: 14–17 October 2025👥 Organized by: KAS & KEWOPA, in partnership with CAF and CPST, within the framework of the WYDE Political Parties Project, funded by the European Union and coordinated by ENoP.

National Women League Convention on Strengthening Inner-Party Democracy
2025-10-27 08:30 - 2025-10-29 17:00 | Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
Empowering women leaders in Kenya to advance inclusion, accountability, and reform within political parties
The Kenya Parliamentary Human Rights Association (KEPHRA), under the WYDE Political Parties Project, is organizing a two-day National Women League Convention bringing together 54 women leaders from 27 counties across Kenya. The event will focus on strengthening inner-party democracy and ensuring that party structures, nomination processes, and manifestos reflect gender equity and inclusivity.
Despite women and youth representing the majority of Kenya’s political landscape, they remain underrepresented in party leadership and elected offices. This convention seeks to change that by creating space for women to critically engage with core party documents and processes through a gender and youth lens.
Through participatory methods—including document reviews, plenary discussions, and action planning sessions—participants will assess party manifestos, nomination rules, and internal governance structures to identify gaps and develop reform proposals that promote fairness and representation.
By the end of the convention, women leaders will be equipped with concrete, evidence-based recommendations to advocate for inclusive party practices and to strengthen their influence within decision-making structures—paving the way for more democratic and representative political institutions ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
📍 Location: Nairobi, Kenya📅 Dates: 27-29 October, 2025👥 Organized by: KEPHRA, within the framework of the WYDE Political Parties Project, funded by the European Union and coordinated by ENoP.

Training of Women and Youth Leaders at Local Level for Inclusive Democratic Participation
2025-11-01 08:30 - 2026-01-31 17:00 | Kenya, Kenya
Building political literacy and leadership skills among women and youth across Kenya’s 27 counties
The Kenya Parliamentary Human Rights Association (KEPHRA), under the WYDE Political Parties Project, is launching a nationwide training initiative designed to strengthen democratic participation among women and youth leaders at the grassroots level.
Over the next three months, county-level trainings will be conducted across 27 counties, engaging 540 participants—20 women and youth leaders per county. These sessions will be facilitated by county-level Trainers of Trainers (ToTs) who co-developed a standardized political training manual during earlier stages of the WYDE Political Parties Project.
The program aims to equip participants with the political literacy, leadership skills, and confidence necessary to engage meaningfully in governance and decision-making processes, while preparing them to contest in the upcoming 2027 General Elections.
Training modules will cover key themes such as political party functions, equality and social justice, the rule of law, economic development, and youth and women’s employment. Through these sessions, participants will build networks, exchange experiences, and strengthen their capacity to influence local governance and policy.
By establishing a vibrant, informed grassroots network of women and youth leaders across Kenya, this initiative reinforces the broader WYDE Political Parties goal: creating more inclusive, representative, and participatory democratic systems.
📍 Coverage: 27 counties across Kenya📅 Timeline: Starting 1st November 2025 Three months (one training per month per county)👥 Organized by: Kenya Parliamentary Human Rights Association (KEPHRA), within the framework of the WYDE Political Parties Project, funded by the European Union and coordinated by ENoP.

Youth Building Bridges: Youth Congress Workshop
2025-11-05 08:30 - 2025-11-06 17:00 | Kenya, Kenya
Building the capacity of young political leaders for effective party and legislative participation
From 5 to 6 November 2025, Nairobi will host the Youth Congress Workshop, organized by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) as part of the WYDE Political Parties Project, led by ENoP and funded by the European Union.
Under the theme “Building the Capacity of Young Leaders for Effective Party and Legislative Participation,” the two-day workshop will bring together young members and representatives of the Kenya African National Union (KANU) for an intensive, hands-on training designed to strengthen youth leadership and participation in political and legislative processes.
The workshop will combine expert presentations, interactive sessions, and mentorship circles addressing key topics such as:

Understanding party structures and internal democracy.
Value-based and issue-driven policymaking.
Legislative and representative functions of Members of County Assemblies (MCAs).
Communication and negotiation skills for effective leadership.
Fundraising and resource mobilization for political and community initiatives.

Participants will engage in group work, policy development exercises, and mentorship dialogues with experienced political leaders, civil society advocates, and communications experts. The workshop will conclude with presentations of county-level action plans and a closing ceremony recognizing participants’ commitment to advancing youth-led democratic leadership.
📍 Venue: Nairobi, Kenya📅 Dates: 5–6 November 2025👥 Organized by: KAS Kenya in collaboration with KANU, within the framework of the WYDE Political Parties Project, funded by the European Union and coordinated by ENoP.

Regional Conference in Dakar: Political Alliances and Democratic Governance in West Africa
2025-11-24 08:30 - 2025-11-28 17:00 | Dakar, Dakar
Dakar, Senegal – 24–28 November 2025
From 24 to 28 November 2025, the Regional Conference on Political Alliances and Democratic Governance in West Africa will take place at the Onomo Hotel in Dakar. The event, organised under the WYDE Political Parties Project and co-implemented by the Center Party International Foundation (CIS) and the Institute for Governance and Development (IGD), will bring together political party representatives from Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire for a week of dialogue, exchange, and peer learning.
Understanding the Dynamics of Political Alliances
In contemporary political systems—whether democratic, semi-authoritarian, or in transition—political alliances play a central role in structuring power, strengthening representativeness, and shaping governance. In West Africa, where political competition often takes place in complex socio-political contexts, alliances between parties have become essential instruments to build coalitions, ensure stability, and broaden democratic participation.
The conference will explore the formation, sustainability, and strategic management of political alliances, analysing both their opportunities and their challenges. It aims to deepen understanding of how ideological differences, leadership ambitions, and electoral contexts influence these processes, while promoting constructive dialogue between parties that share democratic aspirations.
A Space for Exchange and Learning
Over five days, participants from major political parties in Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire will engage in interactive panels, group work, and simulation exercises designed to enhance their analytical and negotiation skills. The agenda includes discussions on:

The genesis and durability of political alliances;
Inclusion of women and youth in alliance-building processes;
Managing ideological and personal differences within coalitions; and
The role of alliances in consolidating democratic governance.

A simulation on coalition negotiation will allow participants to apply lessons learned in a practical and collaborative setting.
A Regional Platform for Collaboration
This conference represents a milestone for regional cooperation under the WYDE Political Parties Project, offering an opportunity to strengthen relationships between parties across borders and promote inclusive political dialogue in West Africa. The initiative highlights the importance of collaboration, knowledge sharing, and peer learning as key elements for building more accountable and participatory political systems.
The event will also include cultural visits and networking sessions, fostering informal exchanges among participants from diverse ideological backgrounds.

📍 Venue: Dakar, Senegal📅 Dates: 24-28 November 2025👥 Organized by: Implemented by the Institute for Governance and Development (IGD) in partnership with the Center Party International Foundation (CIS), powered by the European Union through the European Network of Political Foundations (ENoP), within the framework of the WYDE – Women and Youth in Democratic Engagement Programme.

Towards Inclusive and Accountable Party Systems: Regional Workshop on Political Party Regulation in Africa
2025-12-01 08:30 - 2025-12-02 17:00 | Sierra Leone, Sierra Leone
ORPPs from Kenya, Malawi and Sierra Leone meet in Freetown to validate findings and advance a shared roadmap for regional collaboration
Representatives from the Offices of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPPs) of Kenya, Malawi and Sierra Leone gathered in Freetown on 1–2 December 2025 for a regional workshop dedicated to strengthening political party regulation and advancing gender and youth inclusion across party systems.
The event — hosted by the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) of Sierra Leone and co-organised by the Christian Democratic International Centre (KIC) and the European Network of Political Foundations (ENoP) under the WYDE Political Parties Project — marked a key milestone in the implementation of a comparative study commissioned by KIC on behalf of the project.

A milestone in validating country findings and building regional alignment
The workshop provided the first in-person platform for ORPP representatives, researchers and partners to validate the preliminary findings of the comparative study examining legal frameworks, institutional mandates and regulatory practices in the three participating countries. A central focus throughout the study has been the mechanisms — and gaps — related to gender and youth inclusion in political parties.
Discussions enabled participants to:

review and affirm country-specific findings from Malawi, Kenya and Sierra Leone
engage in in-depth dialogue on shared challenges and best practices
refine the comparative analysis synthesising data from all three contexts
identify priorities for strengthening regulation, transparency and inclusion

These exchanges underscored the crucial role played by political party regulatory bodies in creating enabling environments for more representative and accountable party systems.

Charting a path toward AAPPRA
A central outcome of the workshop was the collective reflection on the proposed roadmap toward establishing the Africa Association of Political Party Regulatory Authorities (AAPPRA) — a long-term vision aimed at deepening cooperation, harmonising standards and promoting peer learning among national regulators across the continent.
ORPP representatives emphasised how a regional platform could:

facilitate continuous dialogue on regulatory reforms
strengthen institutional capacities
advance gender and youth inclusion standards
support more transparent, credible and accountable party systems

The workshop concluded with an agreement on next steps, including a future hybrid meeting to consolidate recommendations and operationalise the framework for AAPPRA.

Strengthening collaboration for inclusive democratic systems
By bringing together institutions responsible for political party oversight, the workshop reinforced the broader objectives of the WYDE Political Parties Project: to promote inclusive, transparent and accountable political party systems that reflect the voices of women and young people.
Partner organisations expressed their appreciation to PPRC Sierra Leone for hosting the meeting and to all participants for their commitment to advancing regulatory cooperation and democratic resilience in Africa.

Training Workshop in Dakar: Women and Leadership – Breaking Down the Glass Ceiling
2025-12-02 08:30 - 2025-12-04 17:00 | Dakar, Dakar
Dakar, Senegal — 2–4 December 2025
From 2 to 4 December 2025, Dakar will host a three-day regional training workshop titled “Women and Leadership: Breaking Down the Glass Ceiling”, organised by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom (FNF) in partnership with the European Network of Political Foundations (ENoP) under the WYDE Political Parties Project, funded by the European Union.
The workshop will gather young women leaders from political parties, civil society, local and national institutions, the media, and the entrepreneurial sector, offering a dedicated space to strengthen leadership skills, foster political participation, and build a sustainable network of emerging female leaders.
Women’s Leadership in Senegal: Progress and Persistent Barriers
Senegal is often recognised as a reference point in West Africa for its strong legal and institutional commitments to women’s rights. With the 2001 Constitution enshrining gender equality and the notable 2010 Parity Law, the country has made substantial advances.
However, despite these achievements, women’s political and civic participation continues to fall short of expectations. Many still face social norms, institutional barriers, and the enduring challenges of the “glass ceiling.” While the legal framework is robust, awareness of these rights remains low, and structural constraints continue to limit women’s access to leadership roles.
Promoting women’s leadership is therefore essential for inclusive governance, democratic resilience, and for advancing key Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).
A Space for Empowerment, Dialogue, and Practical Skills
Over the three days, the Dakar workshop will provide participants with practical tools and strategic insights to strengthen their leadership and civic engagement. The programme will feature:

Expert-led thematic presentations
Interactive group work and peer exchanges
Experience-sharing sessions and case studies
Practical exercises on leadership and political participation

Activities will encourage reflection on the mechanisms of the glass ceiling and identify concrete levers for both individual and collective empowerment.
Beyond capacity-building, the training aims to foster a dynamic network of young women leaders capable of advocating for inclusive, equitable, and democratic governance across Senegal.
Participants and Target Groups
The workshop will bring together:

Young women leaders from political parties
Young elected officials (local and national)
Women leaders from civil society organisations
Young women entrepreneurs
Journalists and media practitioners

This cross-sector approach ensures diverse perspectives and strengthens the ecosystem of women’s leadership in Senegal.
Visibility and Engagement
Throughout the event, visibility will be ensured through EU, WYDE, ENoP and FNF branding, professional photography, and short video interviews capturing participant perspectives on leadership and participation.
Following the workshop, a wrap-up article, testimonials, and visual highlights will be shared across WYDE and partner communication platforms.
Supporting Inclusive Leadership Across Senegal
This workshop represents a meaningful contribution to advancing women’s political and civic leadership in Senegal. By investing in skills, dialogue, and networks, the initiative supports a new generation of women leaders committed to shaping a more inclusive, equitable, and democratic future.

National Youth League Convention on Strengthening Inner-Party Democracy
2026-01-21 - 2026-01-23 | Sunset Hotel, Kimsu, Kenya
Kimsu, Kenya — 21–24 January 2026
Although youth form the majority in Kenya’s political landscape, they remain underrepresented in party leadership and elected positions. Weak internal party democracy, non-inclusive nomination rules, and manifestos that fail to address their priorities further entrench this exclusion.
KEPHRA is convening a 2-day convention that brings together 2 youth leaders from 27 counties across the country to review core party documents including the manifesto, nomination rules, and internal structures, to ensure they respond to the needs of the youth, while advancing the broader goal of strengthening inner-party democracy.
The goal of this convention is to prepare youth leaders to effectively influence party processes by ensuring manifestos, nomination rules, and internal structures reflect inclusivity and democratic accountability.
Focus areas for the convention will include:

Review of party manifestos for gender priorities.
Assessment of nomination rules for fairness and equity.
Evaluation of internal party structures and representation gaps.

This will be done through document review, group work, plenary dialogues, and action planning. Expected
Outcomes include:

Youth leaders critically analyze party documents through a gender and youth lens.
Gaps and barriers in the manifesto, nomination rules, and party structures are identified.
Proposals for reforms towards inclusive and democratic party practices are developed.

Expected Results include:

A consolidated set of recommendations for strengthening inner-party democracy.
Party statutes reviewed in line with the input from the youth league
Established annual activity plans for the youth league
54 youth leaders equipped to engage their party structures with evidence-based proposals.
Greater readiness of youth to contest and influence decision-making in the 2027 General Elections.

Organizer: Kenya Parliamentary Human Rights Association (KEPHRA)
Participants: United Green Movement Party Youth League

Empowering Young Emerging Political Leadership in Ghana: Inception Workshop
2026-02-10 08:30 - 14:00
The Inception Workshop of the EU WYDE Project in Ghana takes place in Accra, marking the official launch of a new initiative aimed at strengthening the political leadership, skills and engagement of young emerging political actors in Ghana.
Organised by Konrad Adenauer Stiftung – Ghana Office, the event brings together youth leaders from major political party youth wings and student representative bodies, alongside institutional and international partners, under the framework of ENoP’s WYDE Political Parties component, supported by the European Union.
Held at the Fiesta Royale Hotel in Accra, the workshop provides a platform to introduce the project’s objectives, foster dialogue across political affiliations, and highlight the importance of inclusive youth leadership within Ghana’s democratic landscape.
The programme includes opening remarks from KAS Ghana, contributions from the EU Delegation, and a panel discussion titled “Young Emerging Political Leadership in Ghana: Perspectives and Experiences”, featuring representatives from TEIN, TESCON, NUGS and SRC structures. Through these exchanges, participants reflect on the opportunities and challenges young political leaders face today, as well as their role in shaping Ghana’s democratic future.
The initiative responds to a growing interest among young people in political participation, particularly within tertiary institutions, while acknowledging the persistent gaps in leadership training, mentorship, policy literacy, financial management and media engagement. By addressing these challenges, the project seeks to equip young leaders with the skills and networks required to engage meaningfully in political life.
Over the coming months, the project will roll out a series of capacity-building activities, including leadership and communication trainings, financial literacy sessions, policy and advocacy workshops, and a structured mentorship programme connecting youth participants with experienced political leaders across party lines. The process will culminate in a National Youth Political Leadership Forum, providing space for inter-party dialogue and the presentation of youth-led policy proposals.
This inception workshop marks an important first step in building a sustainable and inclusive youth political leadership ecosystem in Ghana, contributing to WYDE’s broader objective of supporting women’s and young people’s democratic engagement across Africa.

Amplifying Young People in Parliament: Capacity Building for Young Legislators, Part II
2026-03-17 08:30 - 2026-03-18 17:00
17–18 March 2026 | Naivasha, Kenya
On 17 and 18 March 2026, young legislators and political party representatives from across Kenya will gather in Naivasha for the workshop “Amplifying Young People in Parliament: Capacity Building for Young Legislators, Part II.” The event is organised by the Konrad Adenauer Foundation (KAS) in cooperation with the Kenya Young Parliamentarians Association (KYPA) within the framework of the WYDE Political Parties project, led by the European Network of Political Foundations (ENoP) and funded by the European Union.
The workshop aims to strengthen youth political leadership and support young elected representatives in shaping political processes, party structures and policy priorities ahead of the 2026 political cycle. Bringing together young parliamentarians, youth-wing leaders and political stakeholders from different parties, the event will provide a space for reflection, strategic planning and cross-party dialogue.
Over the two days, participants will reflect on recent developments in Kenya’s political landscape and discuss the main opportunities and barriers affecting youth political participation and leadership. The programme will include reflective plenary discussions, experience-sharing sessions, technical working sessions and strategic roundtables focusing on strengthening youth structures within political parties and enhancing mentorship and leadership pathways.
A key component of the workshop will be the collaborative development of the 2026 KYPA Workplan, which will serve as a cross-party, youth-centred roadmap outlining strategic priorities, interventions and coordination mechanisms for youth political engagement across parties. Participants will work together to identify common priorities related to governance, digital policy, economic opportunities, accountability, peace and security, and youth inclusion in political decision-making.
The event will also provide an opportunity for cross-party dialogue between government and opposition representatives, aiming to identify areas of convergence that reflect youth aspirations and contribute to more inclusive political processes.
Through activities such as this workshop, the WYDE Political Parties project continues to support youth political participation, strengthen democratic institutions and foster dialogue and cooperation between political actors across regions. By empowering young political leaders and supporting cross-party collaboration, the project contributes to more inclusive, representative and responsive political systems.
The workshop is expected to result in a revised strategic framework and concrete action plan for youth political engagement in Kenya in 2026, reinforcing the role of young leaders in shaping the country’s political future.
Event: Amplifying Young People in Parliament: Capacity Building for Young Legislators, Part IIDate: 17–18 March 2026Location: Naivasha, KenyaOrganised by: Konrad Adenauer Foundation (KAS) in cooperation with the Kenya Young Parliamentarians Association (KYPA)Project: WYDE Political Parties – funded by the European UnionParticipants: Young parliamentarians, youth political leaders and political party representativesMain topics: Youth political leadership, party structures, youth participation, political strategy and policy priorities

Responsible Leadership: Financial Integrity and Resource Management in Politics
2026-03-26 09:00 - 2026-03-29 14:00
From 26 to 29 March 2026, young political leaders from Ghana will participate in the training “Responsible Leadership: Financial Integrity and Resource Management in Politics,” organised by the Konrad Adenauer Foundation (KAS) within the framework of the WYDE Political Parties project, led by the European Network of Political Foundations (ENoP) and funded by the European Union.
The training will take place in Koforidua, Ghana, and aims to strengthen financial integrity, transparency and responsible resource management among emerging political leaders. In many political contexts, young leaders face significant challenges in managing financial resources, ensuring accountability and making sound financial decisions. Strengthening financial management skills and promoting ethical leadership are therefore essential for building public trust and sustaining credible political leadership.
The programme will provide participants with practical knowledge and skills related to budgeting, financial oversight, political fundraising, campaign financing, financial accountability and ethical resource management. Through interactive sessions, case studies, group discussions and practical exercises, participants will explore financial decision-making processes, transparency mechanisms and responsible leadership practices in political and student-led organisations.
The training will also create a platform for exchange among young political leaders, allowing participants to share experiences and discuss common challenges related to political financing, accountability and resource management. By strengthening financial integrity and leadership skills, the training aims to contribute to more transparent, accountable and responsible political leadership in Ghana.
Through activities such as this training, the WYDE Political Parties project continues to support democratic development by strengthening political leadership, promoting youth participation in politics and fostering responsible, transparent and accountable political practices.
The training is expected to strengthen participants’ financial management skills, improve decision-making and oversight capacities, and build a network of young leaders committed to ethical and responsible leadership.

Event Details
Event: Responsible Leadership: Financial Integrity and Resource Management in PoliticsDate: 26–29 March 2026Location: Capital View Hotel Tower, Koforidua, GhanaOrganised by: Konrad Adenauer Foundation (KAS) Ghana OfficeProject: WYDE Political Parties – funded by the European UnionMain topics: Financial literacy, political resource management, campaign financing, transparency, accountability and ethical leadership

Pre-Election Survey on Youth Political Priorities and Expectations in Kenya
2026-04-27 - 2026-05-31
The Konrad Adenauer Foundation (KAS), in the framework of the WYDE Political Parties project, led by the European Network of Political Foundations (ENoP) and funded by the European Union, is launching a national Pre-Election Survey on Youth Political Priorities and Expectations in Kenya.
As Kenya approaches the 2027 general elections, understanding the perspectives, expectations and priorities of young people has become increasingly important for the future of the country’s democratic development. With a significant majority of the population under the age of 35, youth represent a central force for political participation, economic development and social change. However, young people continue to face structural barriers to meaningful political participation and representation.
Despite constitutional provisions and efforts to promote youth representation, many young people remain excluded from decision-making processes, political leadership and policy development. At the same time, declining voter registration and turnout among young voters in recent elections reflects growing political disillusionment and a perception that political processes do not adequately reflect the interests and realities of younger generations.
Economic challenges further compound this situation. High unemployment, underemployment and limited access to economic opportunities continue to shape youth perceptions of political systems and governance. In addition, the high financial cost of running for political office remains one of the main barriers preventing young leaders from entering formal politics, reinforcing structural inequalities in political representation.
Against this backdrop, the survey aims to generate data-driven insights into the political and economic priorities, perceptions and expectations of Kenyan youth aged 18 to 35 ahead of the 2027 elections. The study will explore key issues influencing youth political participation, voting behaviour, political motivation and leadership ambitions, as well as the impact of economic realities on political engagement.
The research will be conducted using a mixed-methods approach, including quantitative surveys, focus group discussions and key informant interviews across multiple counties in Kenya, ensuring representation across urban and rural areas, gender groups and socio-economic backgrounds. The study will also analyse differences in political attitudes among various youth segments, including students, employed and unemployed youth, and rural and urban populations.
The findings of the survey will provide evidence-based recommendations to support political actors, civil society organisations and civic education initiatives in developing more youth-centred political engagement strategies. The results will also contribute to public debates, policy discussions and future activities under the WYDE Political Parties project, helping to strengthen youth participation and representation in democratic processes.
Through initiatives such as this study, the WYDE Political Parties project continues to support more inclusive political systems by promoting youth engagement, strengthening democratic participation and fostering dialogue between political actors and young citizens.
The survey represents an important step towards ensuring that the voices, priorities and aspirations of young people are better reflected in political agendas and democratic processes in Kenya.

AAPPRA Regional Conference in Nairobi, Kenya
2026-04-27 08:30 - 2026-04-29 17:00
Strengthening Political Party Regulation and Regional Cooperation in Africa
From 27 to 29 April 2026, political party regulatory authorities from across Africa will gather in Nairobi, Kenya, for a regional conference focused on strengthening political party regulation and promoting more inclusive and accountable political party systems across the continent. The conference will bring together representatives from Kenya, Sierra Leone and Malawi, alongside international partners and experts in political party governance.
Hosted by the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties of Kenya, the conference builds on previous regional exchanges and aims to further strengthen cooperation among political party regulatory authorities in Africa. The event is organised in partnership with the Christian Democratic International Centre (KIC), the Political Parties Regulation Commission of Sierra Leone, the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties of Malawi, and the European Network of Political Foundations (ENoP), within the framework of the WYDE Political Parties project.
Political parties play a central role in democratic governance as the main channels through which citizens organise politically, express interests and participate in public decision-making. Effective and transparent regulation of political parties is therefore essential to ensure accountability, fairness and inclusive political participation. Across many African countries, political party regulatory authorities face similar challenges related to political party financing, internal party democracy, dispute resolution and the meaningful participation of women and youth in political processes.
The Nairobi conference will provide a platform for peer learning, exchange of experiences and technical discussions on key regulatory issues. The agenda will include sessions on political party financing mechanisms, digitalisation of regulatory systems, governance models for political party oversight, conflict prevention and mediation within political parties, and approaches to institutionalising women and youth participation in political processes.
A key milestone of the conference will be the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding among the participating regulatory authorities. This agreement will formalise their commitment to continued cooperation and will lay the foundation for the African Association of Political Party Regulatory Authorities (AAPPRA), a regional platform aimed at strengthening collaboration, knowledge exchange and institutional capacity among political party regulatory bodies in Africa.
By supporting regional cooperation and institutional strengthening among political party regulatory authorities, the WYDE Political Parties project contributes to the development of more inclusive, transparent and accountable political party systems, and to strengthening democratic governance through improved political party regulation and participation.
Event: AAPPRA Conference – Strengthening Political Party Regulation and Regional Collaboration in AfricaDate: 27–29 April 2026Location: Nairobi, Kenya (Villa Rosa Kempinski & Safari Park Hotel)Host: Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP), KenyaOrganised by: Christian Democratic International Centre (KIC) in partnership with the Political Parties Regulation Commission Sierra Leone, Office of the Registrar of Political Parties Malawi, and the European Network of Political Foundations (ENoP)Project: WYDE Political Parties – funded by the European UnionParticipants: Political party regulatory authorities from Kenya, Sierra Leone and Malawi, international partners, and experts in political party regulationMain topics: Political party financing, digitalisation of political party regulation, regulatory governance models, conflict prevention and mediation within political parties, women and youth political participation, and regional cooperation among political party regulatory authoritiesKey outcome: Signing of a Memorandum of Understanding establishing the foundation for the African Association of Political Party Regulatory Authorities (AAPPRA)

EU WYDE Mentorship Breakfast Series
2026-04-30 09:00 - 12:00
Session 1: Resilient Leadership in High-Pressure Environments
On 30 April 2026, the first session of the EU WYDE Mentorship Breakfast Series will take place in Accra, Ghana, bringing together emerging political leaders for an interactive exchange on leadership and decision-making. The session is organised by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Ghana Office within the framework of the WYDE Political Parties project, led by the European Network of Political Foundations (ENoP) and funded by the European Union.
The session will focus on “Resilient Leadership in High-Pressure Environments,” addressing the growing need for political leaders who are capable of navigating complex institutional settings while maintaining integrity, accountability and effective decision-making. In today’s political landscape, emerging leaders are increasingly required to operate under pressure, manage competing interests and respond to rapidly evolving challenges, making resilience and ethical leadership key competencies.
Designed as a practical and interactive learning experience, the mentorship session will provide participants with tools and insights to strengthen leadership capacities, enhance decision-making under pressure and develop emotional intelligence and interpersonal effectiveness. The programme combines keynote reflections, breakout mentoring circles and peer exchange, allowing participants to engage directly with experienced practitioners and explore real-life leadership challenges.
The session will feature Hon. Patricia Appiagyei, Deputy Minority Leader in Ghana’s Parliament, as keynote speaker, sharing insights drawn from her experience in governance, political negotiation and leadership under pressure. Participants will also engage in thematic mentoring discussions on leadership decision-making, personal leadership and managing external pressures, guided by expert facilitators.
A key element of the session is its participatory methodology, including breakout mentoring circles and gender-based safe space discussions, designed to encourage open dialogue and tailored reflection on leadership challenges. Participants will conclude the session by identifying concrete leadership actions to implement in their respective contexts, contributing to sustained learning beyond the event.
Through initiatives such as this mentorship series, the WYDE Political Parties project continues to support democratic development by strengthening political leadership, promoting youth participation in politics and fostering dialogue, knowledge exchange and cooperation between political actors across regions.
The session is expected to enhance leadership resilience, strengthen decision-making skills and build a network of young leaders committed to inclusive, ethical and accountable leadership.

Event Details
Event: EU WYDE Mentorship Breakfast Series – Session 1Theme: Resilient Leadership in High-Pressure EnvironmentsDate: 30 April 2026Time: 09:00 – 12:00Location: Airport View Hotel, Accra, GhanaOrganised by: Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Ghana OfficeProject: WYDE Political Parties – funded by the European UnionParticipants: Emerging political leaders and WYDE participantsMain topics: Leadership resilience, decision-making under pressure, emotional intelligence, political leadership, gender dynamics and inclusive leadership

EU WYDE Mentorship Breakfast Series - Session 2
2026-06-02 08:30 - 13:00
Session 2: Building Sustainable Leaders: Professionalism, Politics, and Personal Development
On 2 June 2026, emerging political leaders will gather in Accra, Ghana, for the second session of the EU WYDE Mentorship Breakfast Series, focused on “Building Sustainable Leaders: Professionalism, Politics, and Personal Development.” The session is organised by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Ghana Office within the framework of the WYDE Political Parties project, led by the European Network of Political Foundations (ENoP) and funded by the European Union.
Building on the momentum of previous WYDE training workshops and mentorship sessions, the Mentorship Breakfast Series continues to create practical and interactive spaces where young leaders can engage directly with experienced practitioners and reflect on the realities of political and professional leadership.
This second session will focus on the importance of developing sustainable leadership pathways that combine political engagement, professionalism and personal growth. As young leaders increasingly navigate transitions from student leadership into national political and professional environments, the session aims to support participants in strengthening their credibility, independence and long-term leadership capacity.
Through mentoring circles, practical exercises and peer exchange, participants will explore key topics including strategic communication, personal branding, leadership resilience and sustainable political engagement. The programme will also address the importance of financial and professional independence, ethical leadership and long-term career development as essential pillars for credible and effective political leadership.
The session will feature experienced mentors and practitioners who will guide participants through interactive discussions on navigating leadership transitions, building networks and confidence, strengthening public presence and managing leadership responsibilities in complex political environments.
A central component of the programme will be the interactive Mentorship Circles, allowing participants to rotate across thematic discussions and engage deeply with practical leadership challenges. Participants will also take part in hands-on activities such as elevator pitch exercises and collaborative leadership vision challenges designed to strengthen communication, teamwork and strategic thinking skills.
The session will further provide a safe and inclusive space for participants to openly reflect on leadership experiences, career aspirations and personal development journeys, fostering peer learning and mentorship connections among emerging leaders.
Through initiatives such as this mentorship series, the WYDE Political Parties project continues to support democratic development by strengthening political leadership, promoting youth participation in politics and fostering dialogue, knowledge exchange and cooperation between political actors across regions.
The session is expected to strengthen participants’ confidence, communication capacities and leadership resilience, while contributing to the development of a new generation of politically engaged leaders committed to professionalism, integrity and long-term democratic participation.

Event Details
Event: EU WYDE Mentorship Breakfast Series – Session 2
Theme: Building Sustainable Leaders: Professionalism, Politics, and Personal Development
Date: 2 June 2026
Time: 08:30 – 13:00
Location: AH Hotel, East Legon, Accra, Ghana
Organised by: Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Ghana Office
Project: WYDE Political Parties – funded by the European Union
Participants: Emerging political leaders and WYDE participants
Main topics: Sustainable leadership, professionalism, political engagement, strategic communication, personal branding and leadership resilience

WYDE Residential Training III
2026-06-25 08:30 - 2026-06-28 13:00
From Ideas to Influence: Advocacy and Policy Engagement for Emerging Leaders

From 25 to 28 June 2026, young leaders from across Ghana will gather in Koforidua for the third and final residential training of the EU WYDE programme, focused on “From Ideas to Influence: Advocacy and Policy Engagement for Emerging Leaders.” Organised by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Ghana Office within the framework of the WYDE Political Parties project, the training marks the culmination of participants’ leadership development journey.

Building on previous trainings dedicated to leadership, communication and professional development, this final residential session will focus on one of the most important dimensions of democratic participation: transforming ideas into policy influence and meaningful civic engagement. As emerging leaders seek to contribute to governance processes, understanding how public policies are shaped, debated and implemented becomes essential for driving sustainable democratic change.

The training will introduce participants to the practical tools and processes of advocacy and policy engagement, enabling them to move beyond theoretical discussions and engage directly with policy analysis, policy brief development, advocacy communication and democratic decision-making. Through expert-led sessions, group work and practical exercises, participants will strengthen their ability to identify public policy challenges, formulate evidence-based recommendations and communicate solutions effectively.

A key focus of the programme will be understanding how policy influence takes place within democratic systems. Participants will explore stakeholder mapping, coalition-building, advocacy strategies and policy communication techniques, while developing the negotiation and public engagement skills needed to advocate for change in complex political environments.

The residential training will also place a strong emphasis on practical application. Working in groups, participants will take part in a Policy Lab, where they will identify governance and development challenges, analyse policy issues and develop concrete policy recommendations. These ideas will then be transformed into policy briefs and advocacy pitches, providing participants with hands-on experience in policy development and strategic communication.

The highlight of the programme will be a Parliamentary Simulation, designed to immerse participants in the realities of democratic debate and decision-making. Acting within a simulated parliamentary setting, participants will present, defend and negotiate their policy proposals, experience coalition-building processes and engage in parliamentary voting procedures. The exercise will demonstrate how policy ideas evolve through debate, compromise and consensus-building, offering a practical understanding of democratic governance in action.

As the final residential training of the programme, the session represents an important milestone in participants’ leadership journey. By combining advocacy, policy development and democratic practice, it seeks to equip emerging leaders with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to contribute meaningfully to public policy processes and democratic governance in Ghana.

Event Details

Event: WYDE Residential Training III
Theme: From Ideas to Influence: Advocacy and Policy Engagement for Emerging Leaders
Date: 25–28 June 2026
Training Sessions: 26–27 June 2026
Location: Abram Hills Hotel, Koforidua, Eastern Region, Ghana
Organised by: Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Ghana Office
Project: WYDE Political Parties – funded by the European Union
Participants: Emerging political leaders and WYDE participants
Main topics: Advocacy, policy engagement, policy analysis, policy brief writing, coalition-building, democratic decision-making and parliamentary processes.

Seminar on Legal and Policy Frameworks
2026-07-29 08:30 - 2026-07-30 17:00
Strengthening the Political Participation of Women and Youth in Côte d’Ivoire

On 29–30 July 2026, parliamentarians, institutional representatives, civil society organisations and experts will gather in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, for the seminar “Strengthening the Political Participation of Women and Youth in Côte d’Ivoire: Legal and Policy Frameworks.” Organised by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) within the framework of the WYDE Political Parties project, led by the European Network of Political Foundations (ENoP) and funded by the European Union, the event marks the official launch of a new national initiative to advance the political participation of women and young people.
Women and youth play a vital role in strengthening democratic governance and building more inclusive political systems. While Côte d’Ivoire has made important progress through legislative reforms and political commitments aimed at increasing their representation, challenges remain regarding the effective implementation of existing legal frameworks, equitable representation in decision-making bodies and the integration of women’s and young people’s priorities into public policy. In this context, parliament has a crucial role to play in advancing legislative reforms, exercising oversight and promoting inclusive democratic governance.
The two-day seminar will provide a platform for dialogue between parliamentarians, government institutions, civil society organisations and technical experts to examine the current legal and policy framework governing political participation in Côte d’Ivoire. Through panel discussions, expert presentations and interactive exchanges, participants will explore the institutional, political and socio-cultural barriers that continue to limit the participation of women and young people, while identifying opportunities for reform and inclusive policymaking.
The programme will also showcase comparative experiences and good practices from Côte d’Ivoire and beyond, encouraging participants to reflect on legislative priorities, parliamentary oversight and advocacy strategies that can strengthen inclusive political participation. A particular focus will be placed on fostering collaboration among parliamentarians committed to championing reforms that create more equitable opportunities for women and youth to participate in political life.
Beyond providing a space for knowledge exchange, the seminar aims to lay the foundations for a parliamentary network that will accompany the implementation of the WYDE Political Parties project in Côte d’Ivoire. By bringing together key political and institutional actors at the outset of the initiative, the event seeks to establish shared priorities and a roadmap for future legislative and policy engagement.
Through initiatives such as this, the WYDE Political Parties project continues to support democratic development by strengthening political institutions, promoting the political participation of women and youth, and fostering dialogue, knowledge exchange and cooperation among political actors across regions.
Event Details
Event: Seminar on Strengthening the Political Participation of Women and Youth in Côte d’Ivoire: Legal and Policy FrameworksTheme: Political Participation of Women and Youth in Côte d’Ivoire: Challenges and PerspectivesDates: 29–30 July 2026Location: Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Office, Abidjan, Côte d’IvoireOrganised by: Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) – Political Dialogue West AfricaProject: WYDE Political Parties – funded by the European UnionParticipants: Members of Parliament, senators, representatives of public institutions, civil society organisations, youth and women’s organisations, and experts in democratic governanceMain topics: Legal and policy frameworks, inclusive political participation, parliamentary engagement, legislative reform, youth participation, women’s political representation and democratic governance.

Listening to Grassroots Leadership: WYDE Initiative at International Democracy Day Brussels 2026
2026-09-17 16:00 - 17:00
On 17 September, the WYDE Initiative will take part in the 12th edition of the International Democracy Day Brussels Conference, contributing a joint session that brings together perspectives from across the WYDE programme.
Hosted within one of Europe’s leading annual forums on democracy, the session, “WYDE Initiative: Rethinking Leadership from the Ground Up,” will feature representatives from WYDE Women Leadership, WYDE Civic Engagement and WYDE Political Parties. Together, they will explore how grassroots actors are reshaping political participation, leadership and democratic engagement across different regions and contexts.
This year’s International Democracy Day Brussels conference asks a timely question: What’s Next for Democracy? Rather than offering predefined answers, the conference creates space to reflect on how democracy support can adapt to a rapidly changing political landscape. Within this broader conversation, the WYDE Initiative contributes a perspective grounded in lived experience and local leadership.
Across the world, women, young people and community leaders continue to develop new forms of participation, representation and collective action. Yet the realities they face often evolve faster than traditional democracy support mechanisms. The WYDE session creates an opportunity to listen directly to these experiences and reflect on what international partners, policymakers and democracy practitioners can learn from them.
Rather than showcasing projects or presenting institutional achievements, the discussion is designed as a listening exercise. Participants will explore how emerging forms of leadership challenge conventional assumptions about political participation, while highlighting the importance of adapting democracy support to changing realities on the ground.
The panel will bring together:

Tosin Ajayi, Executive Director of Women Environment and Youth Development Initiative (WOYODEV), representing WYDE Women Leadership;
Camila Moreno Gil, representing WYDE Civic Engagement;
Emmy Otim, Regional Manager for East Africa at KIC Sweden and CEO of Distinct Leadership Consults, representing WYDE Political Parties.

The discussion will be moderated by Chiara Grigolo, Associate Programme Officer at International IDEA.
By bringing together three complementary WYDE components in a single conversation, the session reflects the value of collaboration across programmes working to strengthen democratic participation, inclusion and leadership. While each initiative approaches these objectives from a different perspective, the discussion highlights the importance of learning across sectors and recognising grassroots actors not simply as beneficiaries of democracy support, but as partners whose experience can help shape its future.
As democratic contexts continue to evolve, the WYDE Initiative remains committed to creating spaces where local voices, practical experience and collaborative learning inform broader conversations on democracy, participation and inclusive leadership.

Event Details
Event: WYDE Initiative: Rethinking Leadership from the Ground Up
Part of: International Democracy Day Brussels Conference 2026
Conference Theme: What’s Next for Democracy? Innovation and Alliances in a Changing World
Date: 17 September 2026
Location: European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), Brussels, Belgium
Organised by: International IDEA, European Partnership for Democracy (EPD), European Network of Political Foundations (ENoP), European Endowment for Democracy (EED) and Carnegie Europe
WYDE Initiative Session Partners: WYDE Women Leadership, WYDE Civic Engagement and WYDE Political Parties
Moderator: Chiara Grigolo, Associate Programme Officer, International IDEA
Speakers:

Tosin Ajayi – Executive Director, Women Environment and Youth Development Initiative (WOYODEV), Nigeria (WYDE Women Leadership)
Camila Moreno Gil – Colombia (WYDE Civic Engagement)
Emmy Otim – Regional Manager for East Africa, KIC Sweden & CEO, Distinct Leadership Consults, Uganda (WYDE Political Parties)
