When young leaders from across Africa gather in Liberia to discuss the future of governance, democracy and development on the continent, one of the voices in the room will belong to a North-West University (NWU) student representing South Africa.

Ayanda Nkabinde, the Student Campus Council (SCC) societies liaison and international students at the Mahikeng Campus, has been selected to participate in the 2026 Young Political Leadership School Africa (YPLS-Africa), a prestigious pan-African leadership development programme that brings together emerging leaders committed to shaping the future of Africa.

Ayanda, who is currently a BAHons student in communication with journalism and media studies, is among 150 young leaders from across the continent selected through a competitive process to participate in the programme, which is taking place in Liberia from 8 to 13 June.

The 2026 edition marks the 10th anniversary of YPLS-Africa and is being held under the theme “Empowering the Future: From Learning to Leadership for Africa’s Agenda 2063”.

Since its establishment in 2016, YPLS-Africa has trained more than 1 200 young politicians, civic leaders and change-makers – many of whom now occupy influential leadership positions in their respective countries. The programme focuses on leadership development, governance, democracy, policy development and youth participation in advancing the development agenda of Africa.

For Ayanda, the opportunity represents more than personal recognition.

“I feel incredibly honoured and grateful to have been chosen to represent South Africa,” she says.

“Coming from a background where I have always been passionate about leadership, youth development and creating opportunities for others, this selection is a reminder that hard work and commitment can open doors beyond one's immediate environment.”

As a student leader who works closely with student societies and international students on campus, Ayanda believes the experience will strengthen her ability to serve others while broadening her understanding of leadership in a continental context.

“Being in a room with young leaders from across Africa is inspiring, and I look forward to bringing back the knowledge, networks and experiences that will help me contribute even more meaningfully to my community and to South Africa.”

Her selection highlights the role that young South Africans continue to play in shaping conversations around governance, leadership and development across the continent. It also reflects the commitment of the NWU to developing graduates who are equipped to contribute meaningfully to society and engage with issues beyond national borders.

As Africa works towards the aspirations of Agenda 2063, programmes such as YPLS-Africa continue to provide a platform for young leaders to exchange ideas, build networks and develop solutions to some of the most pressing challenges on the continent.

For Ayanda, the experience is not only about representing South Africa, but also about contributing to a generation of leaders committed to building a more prosperous, democratic and united Africa.

NWU student Ayanda Nkabinde has been selected to participate in the 2026 Young Political Leadership School Africa.