His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio hosted a high-level youth-led convergence at the Freetown International Conference Centre in Freetown on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. The African Young Leaders Convergence (AYLC) organized the event, which centered on youth leadership and brought together young leaders from across the continent. AYLC Brand and Media Consultant, Kingsley Okeke, stated that President Bio dedicated his birthday celebration to African youth, aiming to share his leadership journey and inspire the next generation. Okeke further disclosed that this dedication showed the President's profound commitment to the development and empowerment of young people across Africa.
Youth Agency and Africa's Future
The event's theme was "From Potential to Power: Unlocking Youth Agency for Africa’s Transformation." This significant convergence formed part of the second edition of the Julius Maada Bio Leadership Colloquium, an initiative designed to foster key dialogues. The Julius Maada Bio Leadership Colloquium initiative seeks to institutionalize leadership dialogue, foster stronger collaboration among African nations, and promote innovative solutions for the continent's most pressing challenges. Discussions during the colloquium focused extensively on equipping young people with essential transformational leadership skills, recognizing their key role in shaping Africa's future. This emphasis also aimed at fostering stronger regional cooperation and enhancing cross-border partnerships across Africa, thereby building a more integrated and prosperous continent. The engaging sessions throughout the event were skillfully moderated by Benjamin Ubiri and Isha Sesay, ensuring a dynamic exchange of ideas and perspectives among participants.
Leadership Philosophy and Commitment
The convergence marked the second edition of the Julius Maada Bio Leadership Colloquium, reinforcing its growing importance as a platform for youth engagement. President Julius Maada Bio stressed that Africa’s future depends largely on investments made in young people. He stated, "Africa’s future depends largely on investments made in young people, especially in education, technology, innovation and skills development," showing his administration's strategic priorities. President Bio also noted his administration’s efforts in promoting youth and women’s empowerment, initiatives he views as fundamental to national and continental progress. He described leadership as a service, stating, "Leadership is a service rooted in sacrifice, peacebuilding and democratic responsibility," reflecting on his role during conflicts in Sierra Leone and Liberia and emphasizing the profound responsibilities that come with public office. President Bio reaffirmed his commitment to democratic principles, adding he would peacefully transfer power. He concluded, "I would peacefully hand over power to the next democratically elected president at the conclusion of my tenure," a statement that resonated with the audience as a testament to his dedication to constitutional governance.
Voices of Youth and Leaders
Former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland, contributed alongside a panel of young African leaders during the event, offering invaluable insights from her extensive international experience. President of the Ethiopian Youth Council, Fuad Gena, called for stronger partnerships, exchange programmes, and youth-led collaboration across the African continent, advocating for greater unity among young people. His Majesty Ogiameh Atuase III commended President Bio’s investment in youth empowerment, stating, "Support for young people is one of the most significant and consequential decisions African leaders can make to secure sustainable development," thereby endorsing the President's vision.
Minister of Youth Affairs, Ibrahim Sannoh, described President Bio as a strong advocate for youth transformation, peace, and regional integration, acknowledging his consistent efforts in these areas. First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio engaged participants, showing the importance of empowering and protecting women and girls across Africa. Dr. Bio noted the impact of the Hands Off Our Girls campaign in her remarks, an initiative she champions to combat gender-based violence and promote girls' education. The gathering attracted young leaders from different African countries alongside youth representatives from across Sierra Leone, fostering a diverse and vibrant environment for dialogue and collaboration.