Impact Stories & Blogs

By Shakiib Mustafe Ahmed, Somalia, Cohort 29

In the last few years, I had been contemplating what to do with my life. I wanted to become a leader, make an impact and be the voice of the voiceless. I had no idea how to approach this burning desire in me. I knew I needed to make a difference, not just to myself but also to the country that I truly love. After many sleepless nights of pondering over this idea, I decided that I will start my journey by taking on an initiative or a course that would help me in these areas that I desperately wanted to succeed. After intensive research on initiatives available to the African youth, I decided to apply to the YALI RLC EA program.

During the program, I learned so many amazing things that have helped shape my future. I am empowered and driven to achieve more in my life while making an impact on others. I interacted with many open minded and African change makers from 14 countries who are all committed to transforming and create the Africa we want. I then embarked on my leadership transformational journey.

When I was coming to YALI RLC EA, I did not get the support and guidance that I needed from Somali alumni except for one. I decided that no other Somali participant will face the challenges and problems I have faced and I will give them guidance and motivation.

I organized information session and offered tips on how to apply to YALI RLC EA since, at the time, the application window for cohort 33 and 34 was open. The result was that four out of the six that applied were selected for an interview and two made it in the final selection.

Later on, I co-trained 150 University graduates pursuing Next Economy program at Harhub Center and I taught them personal effectiveness course and Leadership communication Course. I received a lot of positive feedback from the attendees who felt the courses were enriching with knowledge and would give them an upper hand in life. I want to see every young person in my country succeed bearing in mind "Think Win-Win” and it`s the reason why I am so adamant to make a difference.

A lot of benefits are coming after YALI RLC EA. I was selected to be a facilitator for Youth Leadership Program organized by the Center for Policy Analysis (CPA) held in Maansoor Hotel, Hargeisa. I was also picked to be the co-director of African Youth Union Commission-Somaliland chapter to help lead the next generation of Somalilanders who are in line to develop and represent their country in Africa.

It is mind-blowing and humbling to see that I have impacted someone, inspired them to do more and help them realize the potential they have. I plan to do more to transform our community and create a better tomorrow for our future generations.  I challenge all YALI RLC EA alumni to transfer their knowledge and skills by the approach of teach to learn.