LEAP Africa, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, has facilitated the placement of over 1,200 young Africans across 15 countries in Africa, including South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal and Kenya under the Mastercard Foundation Programme Associates.
According to a statement on Sunday, this was stated at a networking event in Lagos to advance the impact of the Mastercard Foundation Associates Programme. It was revealed that the placement had been in the last year alone.
The partners said that youth unemployment in Africa remains a critical challenge, with over ten million young people entering the workforce annually, with only a fraction securing formal employment. Many also lack the skills needed to meet the demands of today’s dynamic job market, creating a significant talent gap.
To tackle this challenge, the Mastercard Foundation Associates Programme was birthed to equip young professionals with real-world experience and empower them for long-term career success.
In the remarks by Executive Director of LEAP Africa, Kehinde Ayeni, emphasised the Mastercard Foundation Associates Programme’s far-reaching impact, stating, “Africa’s youth are the driving force behind economic transformation. The Mastercard Foundation Associates Programme goes beyond job placements. It is about building sustainable career pathways that lead to long-term fulfilment. At LEAP Africa, we’ve witnessed the remarkable growth of Associates, who have gained essential skills, expanded their networks, and acquired invaluable workplace experience.
“Today’s discussions will further refine our strategies to create even greater opportunities for young professionals.”
The event also featured a dynamic panel session with employers and Mastercard Foundation Associates, who shared firsthand experiences and reflections on the Mastercard Foundation Associates Programme’s impact over the past year.
Programme Coordinator, Jobberman, Toluwani Aina, who was on the panel, said, “The talent emerging from the Mastercard Foundation Associates Programme is exceptional. Mastercard Foundation Associates have demonstrated remarkable skills, adaptability, and a strong work ethic, proving that with the right opportunities, young professionals can excel in any industry. Hiring through the Mastercard Foundation Associates Programme has been transformative for our organisation, and we look forward to welcoming more associates in the future.”
Following the panel discussion, select associates delivered heartfelt testimonials, showcasing the impact of the Mastercard Foundation Associates Programme.
One of the Mastercard Foundation Associates, Elizabeth Ajiboye, reflected, “The Mastercard Foundation Associates Programme has opened doors I never thought possible. The mentorship, exposure, and networking opportunities have positioned me for greater career prospects. I’m excited to take the next steps, knowing I have the right support system in place.”
It was also revealed that similar networking events are being held in multiple countries where it is being implemented, including Ghana, Kenya, South Africa and Senegal, reinforcing a unified, pan-African approach to addressing youth unemployment.
