To bridge the leadership gap among young people and encourage them to assume political leadership roles, the National Youth Parliament of The Gambia, with funding from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), is implementing a three-month intensive leadership-training program for 35 youths from both rural and urban communities. This training aims to equip these aspiring political leaders with the skills and knowledge necessary to take on roles in the country’s political landscape.

Abdoulie O. Bah, the Clerk and head of staff of the National Youth Parliament, explained that the program is designed to mentor, prepare, and enhance the skills and capacities of emerging young leaders to undertake leadership roles. He emphasized that the training not only seeks to build capacity but also encourages participants to step out of their comfort zones and present themselves as viable candidates for political office. The program promotes a sense of teamwork, learning exchange, and networking for a shared vision.

During the ten days of intensive training, participants participated in various key sessions. One significant session focused on life maps, illustrating how the sequence of major events in one’s life shapes their leadership dynamics. Participants also learned the importance of taking responsibility, accepting vulnerabilities, recognizing mistakes, and understanding that leadership does not mean having all the answers to every question.

Networking was a pivotal component of the training, providing participants with techniques for building valuable partnerships, which are crucial for information sharing and capacity building. This allows organizations and leaders, to stay informed of developments and utilize various available resources.

In a session on political culture and adaptive leadership, facilitator Madi Jobarteh discussed the critical need for increased political awareness, which is essential to combat political apathy. He highlighted the role of young people as key players in the political arena and as agents of change who must confidently take on leadership responsibilities without waiting for permission or an invitation to lead.

The youth leadership training was a resounding success, engaging 35 promising young leaders who showed remarkable enthusiasm and commitment throughout the program. This intensive initiative, was designed to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge for effective leadership within their communities and beyond. Through a series of interactive workshops, mentorship sessions, and real-world case studies, they explored critical aspects of leadership, including communication, problem solving, team dynamics, and community building. Participants were encouraged to think strategically, embrace diversity, and foster collaborative approaches to address societal challenges.

The training program includes an online session in which young leaders participate in comprehensive sessions designed to enhance their leadership skills as they prepare to enter the political or leadership arena.

The final phase features a community outreach program, where participants receive a small amount of funding to organize initiatives in their respective constituencies, allowing them to apply what they have learned during the training.

Fatou Ndure is the youth parliamentarian for Lower Nuimi, where she engages young girls in her community by teaching them the art of tie and dye.

Aisha Ceesay is the Genda Focal Person for Peace Ambassador in the West and is one of the participants who focused her community engagement on teaching young people, particularly girls, how to make sanitary pads.

Throughout the training, these emerging leaders not only gained a deeper understanding of leadership principles but also formed meaningful connections with their peers and mentors. The program emphasized personal growth and self-awareness, allowing participants to reflect on their leadership styles and potential. The diverse group, coming from various backgrounds, also engaged in cross-cultural dialogues, enriching their perspectives on global issues and social responsibility. As the training concluded, these young leaders were not only better equipped to take on leadership roles but also motivated to create positive change in their communities, armed with new tools, insights, and a strong sense of purpose.