Introduction
The African Union invites dynamic and motivated young people to apply for the inaugural group of the WiseYouth Network, an initiative dedicated to promoting the critical role of youth in promoting peace across the African continent. Approved during the 35th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government in February 2022, the WiseYouth Network is a subsidiary mechanism of the Panel of the Wise within the framework of the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA). The network aims to increase youth involvement in conflict prevention, mediation and dialogue through strategic advocacy, capacity building and deployment opportunities.
The network's main activities
Members of the WiseYouth Network will be involved in a variety of impactful activities, including:
- Advocacy : Advocates increasing the participation of young people as leaders and partners in preventive diplomacy, mediation and dialogue efforts.
- Training : Improve skills through training, mentoring and peer learning to ensure operational readiness for deployment in peace interventions.
- Political involvement Collaborate with political decision-makers to integrate the participation of young people in conflict resolution processes.
- Sharing experiences : Document and share best practices, challenges and innovations in youth-led peace promotion.
- Community Initiatives : Organise local activities aimed at conflict prevention, reconciliation, social cohesion and confidence building.
- Global connections : Connect with national, regional and international networks of youth workers.
- Additional Shares : Carry out other activities as determined by the network.
Network composition
The WiseYouth Network will maintain gender parity and will be made up of 20 members, with equal representation from each of Africa's five regions. Each region will contribute four members (two men and two women) with specific expertise in conflict prevention, mediation and dialogue. The network will collaborate closely with the AU Youth Envoy and the African Youth Ambassadors for Peace (AYAPs) to ensure coordinated efforts.
Criteria and Qualifications
Applications are open to all young Africans with proven experience in conflict prevention, mediation and dialogue. The selection criteria include:
- Identity : African citizenship and residence.
- Academic qualifications A bachelor's degree is required.
- Experience At least three years of demonstrable experience in relevant areas, backed up by concrete examples.
- Language proficiency Practical knowledge of at least one official language of the AU (English, French, Arabic, Portuguese, Swahili, Spanish).
- Age Between 18 and 35 years of age for the duration of the mandate.
- Availability Availability to participate in various activities and deployments as required.
Tenure
Each group of WiseYouth members will serve a non-renewable three-year term, allowing new young leaders to join and contribute to the network's mission.
Membership benefits
Although the WiseYouth Network is a voluntary initiative, members will receive various benefits, including:
- Networking : Join a continental network of young peacebuilders.
- Global Connections : Access to international youth networks focussed on peace and security.
- Training and Development Eligibility for advanced thematic training and development opportunities.
- Deployment opportunities Potential for deployment in AU-led peace processes.
- Active Participation : Get involved in network activities and initiatives.
- Mentoring : Receive guidance from experienced professionals in conflict prevention and mediation, including members of the Panel of the Wise.
How to apply
Interested candidates must apply via the link provided by 14 June 2024: Registration link
A complete application includes:
- A summarised professional CV
- Minimum of two references
- A cover letter
- A biography of no more than 700 words
Join us in making a significant impact on peace and security across Africa by becoming a member of the WiseYouth Network. Sign up today and be part of this transformative initiative!
