AU–EU Youth Voices Lab – Power of the Collective is a four-year initiative under the AU–EU Youth Lab Programme that is transforming the way young people engage with decision-makers across Africa and Europe. The initiative is designed to build a more inclusive, youth-responsive society by ensuring that young people are not only consulted but actively shape policies, partnerships, and decisions that affect their lives.
The programme is delivered by an international consortium of organisations with extensive experience in youth-led and youth-informed development, including Oxfam, Restless Development, Search for Common Ground, Youthmakers Hub, and ComDev Africa. Together, the consortium is creating meaningful opportunities for young people to influence the future of the Africa–Europe partnership.
Operating across all 54 African countries and engaging partners in Europe, the initiative combines digital innovation with in-person engagement across selected intervention countries. Through this approach, it connects young leaders, policymakers, civil society organisations, and institutions to strengthen collaboration and ensure youth voices are reflected in policies and programmes.
YOUTH ADVISORY BOARD
A key pillar of the initiative is the AU–EU Youth Advisory Board (YAB), a diverse group of young leaders representing Africa and Europe. The Board provides strategic advice, champions meaningful youth participation, and ensures that the priorities, perspectives, and lived experiences of young people are reflected in the programme and the broader AU–EU partnership. By serving as a bridge between youth and decision-makers, YAB members help shape policies, strengthen accountability, and promote innovative, youth-led solutions to shared global challenges.
Meet the Board Members
A diverse group of young leaders representing Africa and Europe. The Board provides strategic advice, champions meaningful youth participation
Read More (opens in a new tab)AU–EU YOUTH VOICES LAB APP
As part of this initiative, Restless Development co-developed the AU–EU Youth Voices Lab App a dynamic digital platform designed with and for young people. (opens in a new tab) Co-created through the insights and contributions of more than 10,000 young people, the app reflects their priorities, aspirations, and lived experiences. It provides an inclusive space where young people can connect, learn, collaborate, exchange ideas, and influence decisions affecting their communities, while continuously shaping the platform through their feedback and participation.
Why Download the AU–EU Youth Voices Lab App?
- Join a vibrant community of young changemakers across Africa and Europe.
- Access free learning opportunities and earn recognised certificates.
- Discover networking, leadership, advocacy, and funding opportunities.
- Connect with Youth Advisory Board members and fellow young leaders driving change.
- Collaborate with peers to influence policies and create solutions to shared challenges.
- Enjoy a platform that is completely free and co-created by more than 10,000 young people.
Key Features
Free Learning and Certifications
Build your knowledge through a wide range of online courses and earn certificates that strengthen your personal and professional development.
Connect Across Borders
Network with young leaders, innovators, Youth Advisory Board members, and advocates from Africa and Europe through communities, discussions, and collaborative spaces.
Co-create the Platform
Help shape the future of the app by sharing feedback, suggesting new features, and contributing ideas alongside thousands of young people.
Opportunities Hub
Explore scholarships, fellowships, internships, grants, events, and leadership opportunities from across Africa and Europe.
Offline Access
Download learning resources and continue accessing key content even when internet connectivity is limited.
Achievements and Recognition
Track your learning journey, earn digital badges, and celebrate milestones as you engage with the platform.
Multilingual and Low Data Experience
Access content in multiple languages through a platform optimised for low data consumption, making it accessible to more young people.
Social Media Integration
Share your achievements, campaigns, and advocacy milestones across your social media platforms.
Accessible and Inclusive by Design
Built to ensure every young person—regardless of location, background, or ability—can participate, learn, connect, and lead.
Download the App
Empowering young people to connect, develop skills, exchange experiences, and build networks to shape decisions that impact their communities, while they can directly improve the app based on their needs and priorities.
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