Report by Alex Mwakilau (YES ’16) and Manal Hassan (YES ’21)
From June 10th to 16th, 2025, YES alumni from across Africa and the United States convened in Nairobi for the YES Alumni Regional Leadership & Volunteerism Workshop, held at the Pullman Hotel. The five-day workshop brought together alumni to learn, share experiences, and strengthen their commitment to leadership and volunteerism within their communities.
The workshop featured insightful sessions focused on effective volunteerism and community project development. Participants learned how to identify real challenges within their communities, design sustainable projects, develop realistic budgets, and implement solutions with purpose. These sessions emphasized that impactful volunteer work begins with understanding community needs and planning thoughtfully for long-term impact.
A key highlight of the workshop was a visit to the United Nations Office in Nairobi, which offered participants a broader perspective on how local volunteer efforts connect to global issues such as
peace, education, climate action, and sustainable development. This experience reinforced the importance of grassroots initiatives in contributing to global goals.
The program also included moments of cultural exchange, with a vibrant cultural showcase where alumni shared traditional dances, attire, food, and stories from their regions. This celebration of diversity strengthened bonds among participants and highlighted the power of intercultural understanding.
Reflecting on the experience, the workshop left participants with renewed purpose and a deeper commitment to leadership and service. As alumni departed, they carried forward not only valuable skills and connections, but also a shared responsibility to apply their learning in ways that positively impact their communities.
The YES Alumni Regional Leadership & Volunteerism Workshop 2025 stood as a testament to the strength of the YES alumni network and its dedication to fostering leadership, collaboration, and meaningful community engagement across borders.
