Young Fellows Program

Training and preparing the next generation of Agribusiness Managers in Africa

The Young Fellows Program is a transformative initiative aimed at developing the next generation of business leaders in Africa. This program is designed to equip talented young individuals with the essential skills, experience, and mindset necessary to succeed in today’s dynamic economic environment. It specifically targets high-performing individuals with a strong interest in business and entrepreneurship, providing them with a rigorous and immersive learning experience.

The program commences with a one-month foundational training module, where participants engage in a comprehensive curriculum focused on building core managerial competencies. This module includes hands-on training in strategic planning, financial analysis, operations management, leadership, and effective communication. The curriculum is structured to blend classroom instruction with real-world case studies, simulations, and mentorship from seasoned professionals.

Upon completion of the training phase, participants are placed in a five-month work placement within a fast-growing, high-impact business operating in Africa. During this period, they acquire practical, on-the-ground experience by working on critical projects, supporting daily operations, and contributing to the overall growth of the organization. This placement not only allows participants to apply their newly acquired skills but also deepens their understanding of the challenges and opportunities present in African markets.

Through this dual approach of structured learning and real-world engagement, the Young Fellows Program seeks to cultivate a pipeline of capable, confident, and visionary business leaders who are prepared to drive economic development and foster innovation across the continent.

Objectives

organizational_gap

Address Organizational Gaps

Address technical and management gaps limiting agriculture SME through the capacity building of targeted young leaders who will be trained to become agribusiness SME managers

youth_in_agriculture

Attract youth to the agriculture sector

Introduce young people to agribusiness opportunities and improve the sector’s image in West Africa.

Components

Personal Development: The Personal Development component of the Young Fellows Program focuses on nurturing individual growth and equipping participants with essential leadership skills. It emphasizes self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and goal setting, helping fellows explore their strengths and areas for improvement. Through workshops, coaching, and reflective exercises, fellows gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their leadership potential, fostering resilience, confidence, and a growth mindset for effective self-leadership.

Business Knowledge: The Business Knowledge component of the Young Fellows Program provides participants with essential skills to navigate the economic landscape. Through expert-led sessions and hands-on projects, fellows learn key concepts in entrepreneurship, financial literacy, marketing strategy, and organizational leadership. This practical approach enables them to tackle real-world business challenges and develop innovative solutions, empowering them to approach their initiatives with confidence and a strategic mindset.

Good business and management practices: The Good Business and Management Practices component of the Young Fellows Program highlights the significance of ethical and effective leadership in modern business. Fellows learn best practices in governance, strategic planning, team management, and operational efficiency, with a strong emphasis on integrity and social responsibility. Through case studies, mentorship, and discussions, participants develop the skills to lead organizations that are both profitable and principled, fostering a commitment to responsible business conduct and long-term positive impact.

Our Impact

cohorts
0
countries: Ghana & Côte d’Ivoire
0
Young Fellows Trained
0
Agribusiness Advisors Trained
0

“The MBC Fellowship came at a critical stage in my life, where, after my master's degree, I felt I did not have enough industry experience to start my consultancy firm. This fellowship allowed me to gain experience while providing relevant solutions to various agribusinesses.”

Xorladem Buku, YFP Participant 2016/17