More than 150 young changemakers from across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and Sub-Saharan Africa regions convened with the global leadership of AFS Intercultural Programs from 55 countries for the inaugural Regional AFS Youth Assembly on May 16, 2025 in Cairo, Egypt. The Regional AFS Youth Assembly, centered around the powerful theme of “Leading with Purpose: Empowering Generations to Create the World We Want,” served as a dynamic platform for exploration and collaboration.
Over the course of the day, participants engaged in interactive sessions designed by and for youth, delving into critical topics shaping our future. Discussions explored topics like the future of education, innovation, social impact, leadership with purpose, intercultural understanding, and climate change. Young leaders shared their journeys from the stage, putting the voices and worldviews of a new generation in focus. Finally, all attendees engaged in intergenerational dialogue, exchanging views and different perspectives on what makes for effective leadership, and teaching each other valuable new skills.
The Assembly was particularly honored to welcome a distinguished panel of speakers, including His Excellency Dr. Ashraf Sobhy, Minister of Youth and Sports in Egypt, Dr. Hassan El Kalla, Chairman of the Board of Badr University, and Mohamed Reda Basion, the Vice President of Badr University. Representatives from over 20 prominent organizations, like different UN agencies, Center for Social Impact Strategy (CSIS) at the University of Pennsylvania, Fulbright Commission, DHL Express and more also generously shared their expertise and insights with the young leaders.
The Regional AFS Youth Assembly is poised to cultivate a powerful, cross-sector, and cross-generational network. This vital connection will link the next generation of changemakers with experienced leaders, fostering collaboration to amplify their impact and drive positive transformation in communities worldwide.
AFS Intercultural Programs extends its deepest gratitude to Badr University for their generous hospitality in hosting this significant event, as well as to the dedicated volunteers and staff from AFS Egypt for their exceptional support in making this inaugural Regional AFS Youth Assembly a resounding success.
Learn more about the Regional AFS Youth Assembly and join us for the AFS Youth Assembly in New York City on August 8-10, 2025.