Welcome to the Now Generation Network
The hub of Africa's most forward-thinking young minds.
Here, we unite to create a future that honours our diverse heritage and potential. The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Now Generation Network (NGN) brings together enthusiastic leaders, thinkers, and doers to shape the future of Africa, together.
Becoming a part of NGN is more than joining a network; it's about being part of a movement. With tiered membership options, you can engage at a level that resonates with your commitment and passion.
Please note due to a high volume of requests, applications to join the NGN are currently paused.
What is the NGN?
The Now Generation Network (NGN), an initiative by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, is a vibrant community of change-makers dedicated to shaping a brighter future for Africa. Our network comprises dynamic alumni from our fellowship and scholarship programs and a diverse group of thematic experts. Together, we're driving positive change across the continent.
Our mission is clear: to engage, equip, empower and amplify Africa's next generation of leaders. We achieve this through targeted programs and strategic initiatives, equipping young individuals with the necessary tools and opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
What do we do?
- Networking & collaborations: Connect with like-minded professionals and experts across various fields.
- Leadership & innovation: Through mentorship, workshops, and collaborative projects, we nurture leadership skills and innovative thinking.
- Advocacy & impact: Our members actively engage in policy dialogue and advocacy, shaping the future of the continent.
- Knowledge sharing: We facilitate webinars, publish thought pieces, and share valuable insights from across the network.
Strategic objectives
By bringing together emerging leaders from across the continent, NGN acts as a catalyst for innovation, leadership, and sustainable change. We do this by:
- Fostering dialogue and thought leadership through the In conversation with… initiative.
- Providing expert insights and policy recommendations through the Advisory initiative.
- Empowering through Mentorship and development.
- Encouraging critical thinking through The NGN Debates.
- Documenting and sharing knowledge through the NGN Insights journal.
- Innovating for a sustainable future through the Future of Africa initiative.
NGN structure and leadership
The Now Generation Network is an invite-only network with a tiered membership. Each tier indicates the level of involvement of the member within the network.
NGN members have exclusive access to in-conversation sessions, mentorship, international representation, and involvement in all MIF initiatives, be it the Ibrahim Governance Weekend or consulting on research projects, including the Ibrahim Index for African Governance (IIAG).
The Now Generation Network is critical to the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, as it feeds into all aspects of the Foundation’s work, from research to high-level stakeholder engagement. Through MIFs networks, NGN members are also frequently recommended as participants to international events and fora.
Event feedback
Hear from NGN members on their experiences.
Ibrahim Governance Weekend (IGW)
Key decisions should encapsulate young African leaders’ voice. The NGN allows African youth to be heard in all development issues that affect the continent and beyond. The opportunity to dialogue with fellow African leaders is opportune and rare.
~Gaokgakala Sobatha, Botswana
Chatham House Policy Leadership School and Conference
Being a part of this has been an incredibly enriching experience. I attended programs such as the Policy Leadership school. I engaged with experts and contributed to discussions on some of the defining challenges of our era. We collaboratively identified some of the most pertinent challenges to democracy and governance and identified key areas for addressing the aforementioned complex challenges.
~Stephannie Adinde, Nigeria
UNESCO MGIEP Youth Participatory Workshop
As an NGN member, I attended the UNESCO MGIEP Youth Participatory Workshop. had the privilege of interacting and networking with fellow youth leaders from across the leaders. I learned new concepts and approaches to youth issues and general social challenges affecting our communities.
~Alpha Habib Bangura, Sierra Leone
Copenhagen Democracy Summit
Attending the Copenhagen Democracy Summit was both sobering and energising, underscoring the message that democracy can no longer be taken for granted. The summit reinforced how interconnected the global fight for freedom truly is. I took part in impactful discussions on global security, the importance of transatlantic partnerships, and tech sovereignty and inclusivity in the digital age. As a youth activist, it was also a valuable opportunity to connect with fellow freedom leaders from across the world.
~Patrick Godi, South Sudan
