Africa-Young Entrepreneurs Summit (YES Africa 2023)

DATE: 23 - 26 October 2023

Africa-Young Entrepreneurs Summit (YES Africa 2023)

Johannesburg, South Africa, August 3, 2023 – The AfCFTA Young Entrepreneurs Federation (AfYEF) is proud to unveil the much-anticipated Africa-Young Entrepreneurs Summit (YES Africa 2023), set to take place from October 23 to 26, 2023, at the prestigious Birchwood Hotel & Conference Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Themed “Acceleration of AfCFTA Implementation, The Role of Women and Youth,” YES Africa 2023 is a landmark event aimed at empowering young entrepreneurs and promoting economic integration across the African continent. In partnership with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, this summit will provide a dynamic platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to network, exchange ideas, and explore new opportunities within the AfCFTA framework.

“We are excited to host the maiden edition of YES Africa 2023, a gathering that celebrates the vibrancy and ingenuity of Africa’s young entrepreneurs,” said Fredrick Nonde Jr., Vice President for Administration of AfYEF. “Our summit is more than just an event; it is a catalyst for driving entrepreneurship, innovation, and collaboration for a prosperous Africa.”

 

Key Highlights

  • Keynote Address: Distinguished representatives from the AfCFTA Secretariat will deliver inspiring keynote addresses on the pivotal role of young entrepreneurs in advancing the AfCFTA’s objectives.
  •  Panel Discussions:
    Industry experts and policy-makers will engage in thought-provoking panel discussions, covering topics such as trade facilitation, policy implementation, and opportunities for youth and women entrepreneurs within the AfCFTA.
  • YES Fund Launch:
    YES, Africa 2023 will witness the official launch of a YES Fund aimed at empowering at least 100 to 200 young and women entrepreneurs in selected sectors across the AfYEF ecosystem.
  • E-commerce Platform Launch:
    YES Africa 2023 will witness the official launch of a cutting-edge e-commerce platform, providing young entrepreneurs with an innovative marketplace to showcase their products and services globally.
  • Online Training Programs:
    Attendees will have exclusive access to online training and capacity-building initiatives to nurture their entrepreneurial skills and foster sustainable business growth.
  • Networking Opportunities:
    YES Africa 2023 will create a conducive environment for networking, forging strategic partnerships, and expanding cross-border collaborations.

“We believe that YES Africa 2023 will leave a lasting impact on Africa’s entrepreneurial landscape,” said Siita Sofo Hissan, Continental President of AfYEF. “This summit is a celebration of Africa’s youth, who are the driving force behind economic transformation and inclusive growth.”