Youth, Women & Society

Word cloud of leadership, cross-cultural understanding, networking, global citizen, youth empowerment, adapted by Africa-Canada Policy Innovation Lab

Youth and Society

We are at a crucial crossroads in global education. More young people than ever are growing up in an interconnected world, but many lack the opportunity to develop the cross-cultural understanding and leadership skills essential for success in it. Meanwhile, pressing challenges like environmental stewardship, social justice, good governance, and innovation require global cooperation, calling for leaders who can step up with compassion, knowledge, and determination.

The ACPiL Youth Leadership Program is a unique initiative aimed at equipping Canadian and African youth for future roles in a globalized world. It connects participants with the rich cultures, histories, and social dynamics of African countries and Canada. The Africa edition of the program offers young Canadians a unique chance to gain insights into African viewpoints on critical global issues while cultivating leadership skills rooted in understanding, empathy, and collaboration. Meanwhile, the Canada edition provides young Africans with an opportunity to explore Canadian society, innovation, and shared challenges, fostering the leadership skills and cross-cultural understanding needed to navigate our interconnected world.


African women plucking tea leaves on a plantation in western Kenya
Young cheerful Africa women preparing vegan food

Women and Society

Strong societies are built on the full participation of women in economic and civic life. Across Africa, countless women are leading businesses, strengthening communities, and driving prosperity—yet barriers to opportunity persist. Expanding opportunities for women is not just the right thing to do; it is a proven strategy for economic growth, stronger families, and more resilient societies.

The ACPiL Women’s Leadership & Economic Empowerment Initiative seeks to test and scale innovative, practical solutions that equip women with the tools, skills, and opportunities to thrive. Our approach prioritizes entrepreneurship, workforce development, and policies that support women’s financial independence and leadership.

QUICK FACTS

Africa

Youth Bulge

youth bulge illustration pyramid
  • Africa boasts the youngest population globally, with over 400 million individuals aged between 15 and 35.

  • By 2030, young Africans will make up 42% of the world's youth, reflecting the continent's youthful demographic and impact on global trends.


Women’s Economic Contribution

A black-and-white illustration of a woman entrepreneur, symbolizing female leadership, business ownership, or economic empowerment.

Women make up 58% of the self-employed population in Africa

A minimalist outline icon representing GDP, featuring economic growth elements like graphs symbol.

Women contribute between $250-300 billion to Africa's GDP

A simple, black-and-white icon depicting asset reinvestment, symbolizing financial growth or reinvestment strategies.

Women reinvest up to 90% of their incomes in education, health, and nutrition

Canada

megaphone outline sketch illustrating advocacy

Youth Engagement

  • Canadian youth are actively involved in advocacy on social and environmental issues, focusing on social justice and working towards a more equitable and sustainable future.

  • As of 2022, nearly one-fifth of Canada's population, approximately 7.3 million, are youth and young adults aged 15 to 29.