The African Pathfinder Leaders Initiative (APLI) has announced the selection of 19 Fellows for its flagship program, selected from 116 applicants.
The program is designed for young people who are passionate about making a positive impact in their communities, and provides them with the necessary skills, tools, and resources to either start or expand their efforts.
Dino Ballotti, from the Namibia Investment Promotion & Development Board (NIPDB), shared his insights with the Fellows on how to establish or scale successful, profitable, and impactful businesses and community organizations that can contribute to national development.
HR Consultant Lisa Matomola, who offered interview simulations, was thoroughly impressed with the program participants. “These are graduates or students with minimal or no prior work experience, yet they came into the interview room confident and sold themselves,” she said. “I had to continuously ask if they were students or employees with experience.”
APLI’s Director of Programmes, Hilja Eelu, spoke highly of this year’s cohort of Fellows, saying, “The vibrancy and X factor of these Fellows is clear. They are full of potential, with an indescribable tenacity that constantly surprises those around them with their willingness to learn and take action. They push onwards relentlessly, yet remain willing to pivot when necessary. APLI Fellows are consistently intentional about achieving their goals.”
The one-year Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for personal and professional growth, with support from the APLI team and industry experts.
Since its establishment in 2018, APLI has made a significant impact, with over 2993 program beneficiaries and approximately 367 young people trained across Namibia in entrepreneurship, community development, and leadership skills.
