We invite young leaders and organizations to nominate and refer young changemakers for the upcoming cohort of the Catalyst Academy.
About the program
The Catalyst Academy is a regional initiative youth Social Innovation Learning Program taking place in Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Cameroon, and South Africa. Led by entrepreneurs and academics from Catalyst Now, the program is designed to equip young people with the skills, networks, and opportunities they need to thrive as social innovators.
Through peer learning circles, technology enabled platforms, and cross-sector collaboration, the program will engage youth participants to co-create solutions that address pressing community challenges. Participants will have access to mentorship from experienced social innovators across Africa and beyond, as well as a dynamic learning journey that includes facilitated sessions, mentorship and ongoing peer exchange.
Who can apply?
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Young aspiring social entrepreneurs (18-35 years)
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Individuals interested in social innovation
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Young women facing barriers to entrepreneurship
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Youth especially those living with disability or refugee/displaced persons seeking dignified employment opportunities
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Community leaders wanting to scale their social impact
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The applicant must be a national and or be a resident in one of the countries listed : Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Cameroon, and South Africa.
Direct Support and Multiplier Impact
The program’s impact ripples outward from individual participants to their communities and beyond. Here’s how it works:
Direct Participant Support: Each participant receives a carefully crafted package of support that includes:
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Weekly peer learning sessions that build knowledge and confidence
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Connection to experienced mentors in their field
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Full access to our technology platform and resources
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Opportunities to participate in cross-border online learning exchanges
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Connections to the Catalyst now network and Alumni.
What you will get from the Program as a Participant
- You will build a real project to address a problem in your community
- You will work in small groups with other changemakers
- You will learn by doing, not just through theory
- You will develop and test a pilot (not just ideas)
Application Deadline: 30 October 2026
METHOD OF APPLICATION
Interested and Qualified candidates should use link below to apply.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Join a live info session to learn more about the program and ask questions:
- Session 1: Tuesday, 20 October 2026 | 5:00 PM EAT / 3:00 PM WAT / 4:00 PM SAST
- Session 2: Tuesday, 27 October 2026 | 5:00 PM EAT / 3:00 PM WAT / 4:00 PM SAST
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