The Congolese Community Central Congo at Africa University (CECAU) brought students together in the Reeves Wesley Foundation Fellowship Centre to host a dialogue and skills-building Leadership Development Workshop in January under the banner of sharing leadership experiences and lessons.
The three-day initiative, conceived and led by a team of Africa University students and supported through a grant from the United Methodist Church’s General Commission on Religion and Race (GCORR), sought to equip young people with the practical skills and values needed to shape ethical, effective leadership for the future.
The program was spearheaded by Christian Mutambay Kamunga, a third-year International Relations student and central committee member of the Congolese Community at Africa University.
He worked in collaboration with fellow third-year International Relations student Benedict Ilunga Banza-Umba, Jean Lola Didama, a first-year master’s student in Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Creativity, and Rev. Dr. Jean Paul Donda, a first-year master’s student in Religious Studies. Their collective efforts culminated in the GCORR awarding a small grant to the CECAU to train 80 youths in leadership skills, equipping them to become effective leaders of tomorrow.
Embodying Confidence and Communication Skills
Speaking on the rationale behind the workshop, Mutambay Kamunga highlighted the underlying challenges the initiative sought to address, noting that confidence and communication barriers continue to hold back many potential leaders within the student community.
“The motivation behind this initiative arises from a significant need within our community. Many of our members struggle with the confidence to lead, often due to language barriers that inhibit their ability to communicate effectively. This fear prevents them from stepping into leadership roles, leading to self-doubt about their potential. This initiative recognizes the vital importance of encouraging leadership in youth and young adults, alongside promoting academic excellence and cultural unity,” he said.
He added: “It also serves as a bridge between education and cultural identity, helping our diverse student body to thrive intellectually, socially, and spiritually. By providing growth opportunities and fostering a supportive environment, this initiative will empower students to develop their leadership abilities, overcome their fears, and contribute positively to the Africa University community at large”.
Training Empowers Students to Use Skills in Their Own Countries
The impact of this student-led initiative is poised to be profound, with 80 students set to benefit from this training. As these young leaders return to their communities, they are likely to spark positive change, fostering a culture of empowerment.
Reflecting on the personal impact of the training, Kerenne Umba Ndolo, a first-year student from the College of Social Sciences, Theology, Humanities and Education shared how the lessons gained would extend beyond the workshop into her immediate responsibilities and long-term vocation.
“I am going to use it in our group of prayer, as the president, to guide the group, my family, my community, and my future life in my pastoral career.”
The emphasis on addressing specific challenges like language barriers and confidence gaps will undoubtedly resonate with many, creating a ripple effect that extends beyond the workshop’s duration. The collaboration with organisations like GCORR and Africa University lends credibility to the initiative, providing a platform for these students to become agents of change. As they step into leadership roles, they will be equipped with the holistic skills and vision to drive meaningful progress, making this initiative a testament to the power of youth-driven leadership in shaping a brighter future for Africa and beyond.
The dedication of the four students who recognized the need and pioneered the call serves as an inspiration, proving that with determination and the right support, even the most ambitious goals can be achieved.
Your Generous Support Helps Educate Africa
By supporting the Africa University Fund apportionment, you help provide financial support for the general operating expenses of Africa University. This university helps empower students from across the continent of Africa to give back to their individual countries on their return home. Please encourage your leaders and congregations to support the Africa University Fund at 100 percent.
story by Ms. Audrey A. Opiyo, third year student in the School of Law
This story shows the impact of the Africa University Fund—one of seven apportionment funds of The United Methodist Church—to equip new generations of leaders for the African continent. Your church’s giving supports Africa University in Zimbabwe, where students from across Africa receive higher education rooted in faith, excellence, and service. Together, we help shape leaders who transform their nations and communities.
When your church supports the Africa University Fund, you empower students to become changemakers grounded in hope and faith.
