To address critical gaps in access to skills development, funding, and mentorship within the African creative sector, the African Union Commission’s Women, Gender, and Youth Directorate launched the Women and Youth Financial and Economic Inclusion (WYFEI 2030) Initiative's Creative Sector Cohort, "Afri'Talent", in partnership with Tikera Africa and FIT Africa. The launch took place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in the esteemed presence of H.E. Dr. Monique Nsanzabaganwa, Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Amb. Albert M. Muchanga, AU Commissioner for Economic Development, Tourism, Trade, Industry, and Mining (ETTIM), AU Member States Representatives, selected cohort participants from East Africa, key partners and young entrepreneurs.

As a driving force of economic growth, the creative sector holds immense potential for job creation and innovation. Yet, African women and youth-who face disproportionate barriers to meaningful economic engagement-remain underrepresented in this thriving industry. Afri'Talent therefore aims to address these challenges by empowering creative entrepreneurs with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed, contributing to the WYFEI 2030 Initiative’s goal of unlocking $100 billion for 10 million African women and youth by 2030.

The Afri'Talent program was inaugurated through the Eastern Africa Bootcamp that brought together selected participants from the region to address critical needs in the creative sector. The three-day bootcamp served as an intensive platform for exceptional women and youth from the creative sector, equipping them with advanced skills in entrepreneurship and business development. The program also provided participants with the tools and strategies needed to unlock funding opportunities, scale their businesses, and foster regional collaboration. With additional bootcamps scheduled to take place across the continent, each program is carefully designed to reflect the unique cultural, economic, and demographic dynamics of its target region.

Beyond skills training, the bootcamp emphasized the importance of building a robust cross-country network of creative professionals and industry leaders. It also included specialized Gender and Youth mainstreaming training, underscoring the program’s commitment to inclusivity and equality within the creative sector. By empowering participants to launch and grow sustainable ventures, the Afri'Talent program is driving innovation, economic growth, and social transformation across the region.

Throughout the duration of this pilot program, the selected cohort will benefit from targeted training in leadership, entrepreneurship, and sustainable business models. The cohort will also receive tailored support in business strategy, marketing, financial management, and legal compliance, including alignment with AfCFTA regulations. To facilitate growth and regional collaboration, Afri'Talent emphasizes cross-border trade and global market access, leveraging digital platforms and partnerships. The program also champions the digitization and global showcasing of African art, blending traditional and contemporary expressions to create export opportunities. Delivered through a combination of digital training, intensive regional bootcamps, and hybrid mentorship, Afri'Talent equips participants with the tools and networks to build and sustain creative businesses while driving economic growth and innovation across Africa.

For further information please contact:
Ms. Rym Ben Salah| Women, Gender and Youth Directorate | African Union Commission | E-mail: salahR@africa-unin.org
For media inquiries, please contact:
Arlette Akingeneye | Women, Gender and Youth Directorate | African Union Commission | E-mail: AkingeneyeA@africa-union.org