Peggy Kere Osman（ 梨花）’s Post

A few moons ago, I embarked on the journey of the #YALI Online Cohort - Civic Education track. I initially thought it would be an easy path, but it turned out to be more challenging than I expected. However, I was determined to graduate. I faced struggles with the assignments, completing the activities, and attending some classes due to internet issues, school, and work commitments. But I didn’t let these obstacles stop me from achieving my goal. I stayed up late to complete my activities and watched the recordings of the classes I missed. During this YALI Leadership Training program, I proudly represented my two flags: #Namibia and #Angola and worked on the ClimateCreators Hub as my prototype for a CSO initiative. This experience helped me better define the problem we are tackling, develop collaborations plan, improve proposal writing, and focus on human-centered design. Today, I can proudly say that I have graduated from the YALI program after meeting all the requirements! Looking forward, I am excited about continuing this journey and perhaps finally successfully applying for the Mandela Washington Fellowship, after three rejections in past years. Here are a few lessons I learned, and some advice if you’re joining YALI: 1. Complete your activities on time to avoid rushing through them and missing out on valuable learning. 2. Communicate with your assigned facilitator if you’re unable to attend a class or any of the masterclass. 3. Network and connect with other Cohort members. You never know—you might meet your next project partner. 4. Your #Pitch matters: Choose a practical project or initiative to work on because this program will guide you on how to address it effectively. Don’t be afraid of the pitching process as it will give you valuable feedback to improve your initiative. Till next time, Cheers 🥂 YALI Regional Leadership Center West Africa, Accra YALI Network YALI Africa YALI Regional Leadership Center Southern Africa

How to apply for the fully funded fellowship I posted yesterday ( YALI RLC WEST AFRICA ) . I made a post on the application release for YALI ( Young African Leadership Initiative ) for west Africa yesterday and a lot of people reached out to me regarding the process . More people reached out asking for the next step after they have signed in , however I was surprised because it’s not only “sign in “ that it requires. You have to fill the long form , answer short essay questions and all other information about yourself , your home country and what you do with your organization or let me say how you are making impact in your community and your country I realize a lot of people don’t understand how to sign in and where to see the questions, Infact someone categorically asked if I can make a post on it to guide them, another person made same request too . So here it is ; 💥 step 1 : click on this link below 👇 YALI RLC APPLICATION https://lnkd.in/d8RFXU3q 💥Step 2 : A page appears that contains instructions of the fellowship as well as criteria, please read and understand properly to ensure you meet each criteria . And to also guide you on which track to choose that suit what you do and how you make impact . The 3 tracks are (Civic leadership , public policy and Business &Enterprenuer) 💥Step 3: Click on “Apply “ after you have read and understand step 2 💥Step 4: A “sign in / sign up “ page appears once you do step 3 . Click on “sign up” NOT sign in Sign up will register you and create your username and password. 💥step 5: After step 4 , you will receive an Email that you have signed up , if you don’t it’s fine , just click on the link in step 1 and use the username and password you created to “ SIGN IN “ this time around 💥Step 6: Once you are signed in , you will see the application questions page by page 💥Step 7 : Find a seat ,go to a quiet place , sit down and start filling the form and answering the questions gradually Once you fill a page , it goes to next page till you finish All the application is about 10-15 pages or less . 💥step 8 : Always answer questions in a particular page before you move to another , if you leave it to come back later , you may forget totally 💥step 9: You can answer all the questions in a few hours , but to write a strong application, I suggest you take your time and use days to answer your essay questions So if you are tired or haven’t articulate your answers , kindly save your work and leave it till the following day 💥step 10: Always ensure you save your work before you leave that page , SAVE but don’t SUBMIT unless you are done with everything Only SUBMIT when you have answered all the questions You can save and leave the page , when you want to continue the next day , just click the link in step 1 , sign in and resume back to your questions I hope this helps! #linkedin YALI Regional Leadership Center West Africa, Accra

New business challenges due to our country's integration into the EU mean our #executives need to be prepared for complex and rapidly #changing environments. This requires skills like strategic thinking, adaptability, technological proficiency, and strong leadership. In Albania, current master’s programs are often not well-suited for young professionals. They usually run during office hours and lack the flexibility needed for those who want to advance their careers. Therefore, executive education programs need to evolve to provide practical skills and exposure to innovative business practices. At Tirana Business University (TBU), we are developing new #Master's programs for #young #executives to improve their leadership skills and strategic thinking. These programs are designed to be #flexible, allowing participants to study while working. This way, they can apply what they learn directly to their jobs. Our programs will also focus on adaptability, digital skills, and an #entrepreneurial mindset. By working with industry experts and offering real-world projects, and the best local and #international professors, we aim to equip our graduates to handle today's dynamic business challenges. TBU: A new mindset in business and technology.

Shortly after graduating, I aimed to join the YALI Regional Leadership Center East Africa program, inspired by its mission to empower young African leaders. My first application ended with a regret email: "Dear Robert, The YALI RLC East Africa Admissions Selection Committee has carefully reviewed your application. After much consideration, we regret to inform you that we are unable to offer you a place in the program." Though a setback, it fueled my resolve to grow and reapply. This year, I did—and received the email every applicant would anticipate: "Dear Robert, On behalf of the Admissions Committee, we are pleased to offer you a place as a participant in the YALI RLC EA Program. Accepted for: Cohort 58." Six weeks after graduating, I reflect on this transformative journey. #YALI wasn’t just training; it was a deep dive into leadership, collaboration, and cultural diversity. Courses like #EffectiveLeadership and The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People refined my clarity and purpose. The habits—being: #Proactive, #BeginningWithTheEndinMind, #PuttingFirstThingsFirst, #ThinkingWin_Win, #SeekingToUnderstandThentobeUnderstood, #Synergizing, and #SharpeningtheSaw—helped refine my clarity and purpose as a leader. The Business & Entrepreneurship track reshaped my approach with tools like Empathy Maps, Value Proposition Design, and the #BusinessCanvasModel. Sessions in Pitch Deck Development, Prototyping, and #Negotiation were invaluable—especially learning about #BATNA (Best Alternative To a Negotiated Agreement) and #ZOPA (Zone of Possible Agreement), which provide insights into both buyer and seller perspectives. Cross-cutting modules like #DesignThinking, #Diversity, #Equity, and #Inclusion, and #ThisIsAfrica reinforced the importance of inclusive, forward-thinking leadership. Completing #YALI reminded me that resilience and persistence turn dreams into reality. It’s a journey I’ll treasure for the connections, lessons, and inspiration to drive change. #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #AfricaForward #Learning YALI Regional Leadership Center East Africa YALI Regional Leadership Center - West Africa - Dakar YALI Regional Leadership Center Southern Africa YALI Regional Leadership Center West Africa, Accra YALI RLC-SA USAID Arizona State University YALI Network YALI Africa YALI RLC EA - Alumni Chapter of Kenya

Overcoming Challenges to Achieve Greatness: My YALI RLC EA Journey. Life often throws challenges our way, but with determination and resilience, we can overcome them and emerge stronger. Today, I am thrilled to share that I have successfully completed the YALI Regional Leadership Center East Africa program, a journey that has been both rewarding and challenging. Enrolling in this prestigious program was a dream come true, as it offered me an opportunity to refine my leadership skills, collaborate with like-minded young leaders, and create impactful solutions to community challenges. One of the highlights of this experience was presenting my Eco-Wash project, which focuses on combating plastic pollution and promoting sustainable practices in my community. However, my journey was far from smooth. Midway through the program, I faced a heartbreaking personal loss, the passing of my uncle. Balancing the emotional weight of grief with the program's demanding schedule was incredibly tough. But I reminded myself of why I started and used my uncle's memory as a source of motivation to push forward. Another major challenge was the lack of a computer during the crucial pitch presentation phase. This moment was pivotal for completing the program, and I knew I couldn’t afford to miss it. Resourcefulness became my superpower, I rented a phone from someone and prepared my pitch using whatever tools I had at hand. It wasn’t ideal, but it worked. I successfully presented my project and crossed the finish line. Looking back, these challenges taught me the true essence of perseverance. They reminded me that leadership isn’t about waiting for the perfect conditions; it’s about making the most of what you have and staying committed to your vision. As I celebrate this achievement, I carry with me the lessons learned, the connections made, and the hope that this is just the beginning of many more impactful journeys ahead. To anyone facing difficulties, remember: resilience and creativity can turn obstacles into stepping stones toward success. #Leadership #YALIRLCEA #SuccessStory #Resilience

Opportunity

A Journey of Transformation: My YALI Experience My time at YALI-RLC NAIROBI. I arrived with a heart full of dreams and a mind open to the myriad possibilities that lay ahead. As a community worker, I had always sought to make a difference, but the one-month Young Africa Leaders Initiative (YALI) program promised an opportunity to magnify my impact in ways I could scarcely imagine. From the moment I stepped into the program, the experience was nothing short of transformative. YALI is more than just a leadership program; it’s a catalyst for personal and communal change. The lectures, and discussions were not only intellectually stimulating but also deeply inspiring. We were introduced to innovative concepts in leadership and community development, but the real magic happened when theory met practice. Our design thinking projects for the month was to collaborate with locals to how we can blend with the community so that we can help address pressing issues and implement sustainable solutions. As we brainstormed ideas, I felt an overwhelming sense of purpose. The challenge was daunting, but with the support of YALI facilitators and fellow participants, I felt empowered to tackle it head-on. Working alongside a diverse group of passionate young leaders from across Africa was another highlight. Each day, I was inspired by their dedication and creativity. We exchanged ideas, learned from each other’s experiences, and built a network of like-minded individuals committed to making a difference. The sense of camaraderie was palpable, and it fueled our collective drive to succeed. Beyond the practical skills and knowledge gained, the YALI program fostered a deep sense of self-awareness and personal growth. I discovered new strengths within myself and gained a renewed perspective on leadership and community service. The experience taught me that effective leadership is not just about making decisions but about inspiring others and working collaboratively towards a common goal. As my time at the Center came to an end, I felt a profound sense of transformation. The YALI program enriched my skills but also ignited a passion within me to continue serving my community with even greater determination. I returned to my community with a renewed sense of purpose and a toolkit of innovative strategies to tackle local challenges. In the months since, I have carried forward the lessons learned and the inspiration gained from YALI. My journey through the program had a lasting impact, shaping my approach to leadership and community work. It was more than just a month-long experience; it was a pivotal chapter in my life that set me on a path to becoming a more effective and empathetic leader. The Young Africa Leaders Initiative did not just change my life; it transformed it. And as I continue to work towards making a difference in my community, I do so with the unwavering belief that leadership, when rooted in passion and collaboration, can truly change the world

📣 Attention Week 1 Participants of UONGOZI BORA ACADEMY! 📣 Congratulations on completing your first week of training! Are you ready to dive deeper into your leadership journey? Join us for Week 2 assignments where we'll delve into crucial aspects of political leadership. 🔍 Week 2 Coursework Overview: 👥 Group Discussion and Collaboration:   Engage in a group discussion on a current political issue, showcasing your ability to articulate and exchange ideas respectfully.   Collaborate with fellow candidates to develop a consensus on a proposed solution to a given political challenge. 🤝 Team Exercise:   Participate in a team exercise focused on problem-solving within a political context.   Present the group's collective findings and proposed strategies. 🔍 Self-Reflection:   Reflect on your strengths and areas for improvement in political leadership.   Consider a scenario where you face a challenging decision as a political leader. Describe the decision-making process considering ethical considerations and stakeholder perspectives. 🎙️ Interview:   Final Interview: Participate in a one-on-one interview with UONGOZI BORA ACADEMY representatives. Discuss your motivations for joining the program, aspirations in political leadership, and how you believe the training will contribute to your growth. 📅 Assignment Submission Deadline: Ensure you complete and submit your assignments by FRIDAY 1ST MARCH 2024 , AT 11:59PM EAT , on https://lnkd.in/ec8PRQ7i DM, to stay on track with your training. Let's continue shaping the future of leadership in Kenya together! Your commitment to learning and growth is commendable. See you in Week 2! #UONGOZIBORAAcademy #LeadershipJourney #PoliticalLeadership #Week2Assignments #TeamCollaboration #SelfReflection #InterviewPrep