From Monday, July 14 to Friday, July 18, 2025, the third cohort of the Economic Impact Challenge Liberia, spearheaded by Africa’s Future Economic Leaders (AFEL) in partnership with YouthArise 4 Development, embarked on a 5-day intensive training program tailored to equip young Liberians—particularly students in economics and related fields—with the tools to drive real economic transformation.
This training was not just about lectures—it was a catalytic experience blending policy, research, communication, trade, and advocacy to help students craft solutions that matter.
Led by Oluwatosin Wilde, AFEL’s Programs Manager, Day 1 was dedicated to welcoming participants, introducing the structure of the competition, and clearly outlining the vision of the Economic Impact Challenge.
Participants gained a strong understanding of AFEL’s mission and the unique collaboration with YouthArise 4 Development. The session also covered rules, ethics, and expectations for the competition, laying a strong foundation for the week ahead.
With a powerful focus on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Day 2 featured seasoned facilitators including Meberechukwu Ezike, Tanatsiwa Dambuza, and David Akwara.
From the potential of intra-African trade to the challenges facing implementation, participants explored the transformative possibilities AfCFTA offers to local businesses, women, and youth.
A resounding takeaway: Liberia must move from passive participation to proactive preparation—by scaling Liberian-owned businesses, building capacity, and promoting local ownership.
Facilitated by Divine Adongo, Day 3 equipped participants with the tools to engage in meaningful advocacy.
From understanding public policy cycles to building strategic campaigns, the training focused on storytelling, stakeholder engagement, and social media as a tool for impact. Participants left with clear frameworks for influencing change beyond classrooms and into national conversations.
Led by Alice Adeyemi, AFEL’s Communication Manager. Day 4 turned the spotlight on research and data as drivers of policy.
Participants learned practical approaches to data collection, report structuring, and writing persuasive, evidence-based documentation.
A central insight: No matter how good a research idea is, it holds no value if it isn’t well communicated and supported with credible data.
The final day, facilitated by Ajayi Ayodeji, focused on digital storytelling and communication.
As the Challenge moved from theory to execution, participants were trained on scripting, video delivery, and presenting their ideas with confidence and clarity. Emphasis was placed on leveraging digital tools for collaboration and timely submissions.
The session set the tone for effective content delivery and ensured that participants are well-prepared to pitch their ideas to a wider audience.
This 5-day training was more than a preparatory session—it was a transformative journey.
Participants now carry with them a rich blend of trade knowledge, policy insight, research competence, and storytelling skills. As the Economic Impact Challenge Liberia Cohort 3 officially begins, we’re excited to witness bold, original, and impactful projects emerge from these bright minds.
At AFEL, we believe the future of Africa’s economy lies in the hands of well-equipped youth. And through programs like this, the future is already being shaped.
