Littoral: Okwelians Fellowship for Young Cameroonian Leaders graduates fresh batch of trainees.

The graduation ceremony took place in Souza, Moungo Division of the Littoral Region.

The programme launched by a non-profit association known as The Okwelians, annually announces its call for application, seeking young Cameroonian leaders who embody excellence, leadership, and a passion for community transformation.

The prestigious programme targets professionals under 30 years old who demonstrate exceptional leadership skills and a commitment to driving positive change. 

According to the selection process, applicants must be Cameroonian citizens or of Cameroonian origin, proficient in French and/or English, and possess a strong reputation within their community. 

Upon selection, fellows embark on a transformative journey, equipping them with essential tools to become change-makers in Cameroon. For the 2024 edition, over a hundred candidates applied for the programme but only 20 were selected. 

At the graduation ceremony, they presented their works, advocating accountability and sustainability in leadership, as well as community service.

According to the organising committee, mentorship plays a vital role in the programme, with the inner journey initiative pairing fellows with experienced mentors to accelerate personal and professional growth. 

Participants will also engage with influential personalities during the Insight Expedition phase, exploring leading Cameroonian enterprises and fostering valuable connections.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony, the president of the initiative, Jonathan Jaques Nyemb, said: “The Okwelians Fellowship Programme aims to cultivate a new generation of leaders capable of addressing Cameroon's most pressing challenges. By empowering young professionals, the initiative seeks to inspire positive change and propel the country's development”.

The Executive Director of The Okwelians, Carole Medy, highlighted that, "with our 4th edition, we have already empowered sixty young individuals. Our commitment to Cameroon's sustainable transformation will continue over the next decade and a half”.

She called on the youth to embrace lifelong learning. She urged them to “continually develop your skills, trust in your abilities, and recognise your role as architects of a brighter Cameroon because ethical leadership is pivotal to achieving this vision”.

The youth leaders upon graduating, vowed to put into practice all what they learned through out their time with organisation and their respective mentors. They have also called each and everyone to be responsible in their every action, in order to ensure a better Cameroon.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No: 3261 of Wednesday October 16, 2024