Inspiring the Next
Generation of Leaders
East Africa is home to one of the youngest populations on Earth — and GDP is rising to meet that moment. Quarterly summits, mentorship programs, and 12 centres shaping tomorrow’s change-makers today.
“We are planting the seeds for a brighter tomorrow, one empowered young person at a time.”
GDP’s Vision for Inspiring, Connecting, and Equipping the Youth
East Africa is home to one of the youngest populations in the world, with over 60% of its people under the age of 25. Yet, this vibrant youth demographic faces significant challenges including high unemployment rates, limited access to quality education, and social barriers that stifle their potential.
According to the International Labor Organization, youth unemployment in East Africa can reach as high as 25%, leaving many young people vulnerable to poverty and marginalization. The urgent need for youth empowerment initiatives has never been clearer — these young minds are not just the future, they are the key to unlocking lasting change across the region.
The Global Development Project (GDP) is rising to meet this need head-on with dynamic programs designed to inspire, connect, and equip young people for success. Central to this effort are the quarterly Youth Empowerment Summits held throughout Kenya, where hundreds of youth from diverse backgrounds come together to learn, collaborate, and grow.
These summits are more than just events — they are lively, interactive spaces where young people share experiences, uplift one another, laugh, and build lasting friendships across cultures. By fostering a supportive community, GDP empowers youth to develop leadership skills, embrace innovation, and become agents of positive change in their own communities.
centres across Kenya
held every year
GDP is working to change
work across East Africa
Our Youth Initiatives
From quarterly summits to year-round mentorship, every initiative is designed to build leaders from the ground up.
Youth Stories & Field Reports
Watch our 2025 story — youth, hope, and the work that makes it possible.
GDP — More Than a Trip – GDP Wants to Make a Difference
11 Leadership Centres Across Kenya
From Nairobi to the coast, GDP’s leadership centres are woven into communities across the country — year-round hubs of mentorship, training, and opportunity.
The youth we engage with today are the leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries of tomorrow. Every gift, every volunteer hour, every missions trip — it all shows up in a real young life in East Africa today.
