2024 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council in-person meeting

Written by Saline Owaga (Online Mastercard Foundation Scholar, University of Edinburgh) 

The 2024 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council in-person meeting, which took place from 26-29 January, provided a platform for Mastercard Foundation Scholars' representatives to engage, share experiences, and collaboratively shape the future of African youth.

This impactful gathering was marked by insightful discussions, transformative leadership sessions, and the unveiling of sub-committees aimed at driving positive change.

Shaping the future

The opening session, led by Norette Turimuci, Youth Engagement Lead at the Mastercard Foundation-Rwanda office, set the tone for the event.

The principle of "Nothing for us without us" resonated as Scholars' representatives got into discussions on actively contributing to Africa's transformation and the ambitious goal of enabling 30 million African youth to secure dignified and fulfilling work by 2030.

Commitments as Scholars' representatives

Mastercard Foundation Scholars’ representatives from partnering universities were urged to demonstrate commitment by actively participating in all council activities.

Mastercard Foundation Scholars’ experiences and challenges

Representatives shared insights, emphasising collaboration with alumni for community service, prioritising entrepreneurship projects for self-employment, the importance of pan-African collaboration for community building, and appealing to program directors for clear information before starting studies.

The need for listening to Mastercard Foundation Scholars was underscored.

Transformative leadership

Duaa Mohammed, facilitated a session on transformative leadership, addressing self-leadership, emotional intelligence, and leading with influence.

The importance of leading oneself first was emphasised, recognising the unique challenges faced by Mastercard Foundation Scholars in leadership roles.

Solid Minds presentation

Solid Minds, a mental health clinic partnered with the Mastercard Foundation, highlighted its work in stigma reduction, counselling, and capacity building in mental health, a crucial aspect often overlooked in youth development programs.

Partner institution visits

Mastercard Foundation Scholars’ representatives had the opportunity to visit Mastercard Foundation partner institutions in Rwanda.

Personally, I had the privilege of visiting the African Leadership University (ALU). While there, we engaged with Mastercard Foundation Scholars, immersed ourselves in their campus environment, and gained insights into their diverse programs of study. It was truly enriching to hear the testimonies of ALU scholars, illustrating how being Mastercard Foundation Scholars has profoundly positively impacted their lives.

Saline Owaga

Building a strong Foundation

Mastercard Foundation Brand

Mimi emphasised the importance of Mastercard Foundation Scholars appropriately representing the Mastercard Foundation brand.

Mastercard Foundation Scholars were encouraged to share their stories and to harness the powerful impact of storytelling.

Introduction to sub-committees

New Mastercard Foundation Scholars’ representatives were introduced to sub-committees focusing on Give Back, Scholars Community Building, Transitions, and Well-being & Health.

These sub-committees aim to cultivate a culture of service, strengthen bonds among Mastercard Foundation Scholars, facilitate seamless transitions, and promote the well-being of Mastercard Foundation Scholars.

Baobab team presentation

Baobab is a social, professional, learning community for young African leaders, participants and alumni of Mastercard Foundation programs. The Baobab team provided insights into the Baobab platform, urging Mastercard Foundation Scholars to sign up and explore its valuable resources.

Visit the Baobab website

Baobab Summit preparation

Mastercard Foundation Scholars worked collaboratively to develop themes and topics for the upcoming Baobab Summit scheduled for the end of August 2024.

The themes for the coming year will be confirmed in the next few weeks!

Wrap up

The 2024 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council In-Person Meeting in Kigali was a testament to the commitment, collaboration, and transformative leadership within the Mastercard Foundation Scholars community.

As Scholars unite for change, their stories, initiatives, and a shared vision for the future promise a positive and lasting impact on the African continent.

For more information and photos from the 2024 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council in-person meeting, download the PDF: