Theory of Change

Ideas → Agency → Action → Institutions → Freedom

YADI believes agency already exists. The task is to strengthen the knowledge, networks, and institutional conditions through which it can be exercised.

The theory

If young Africans have access to ideas and knowledge grounded in African experience, the tools and networks to act on them, greater freedom to pursue enterprise, and the civic knowledge to engage with institutions, they will be better positioned to translate their agency into productive action, public participation, and institution-building. Reinforced by strong networks and institutional reform, that agency can contribute to freer economies, stronger communities, more accountable institutions, and greater prosperity across generations.

Core proposition

Africa’s future will not be delivered to young Africans. It will be built by them.

Change pathway
01

African experience

Context, evidence, institutions, lived reality.

02

Research & ideas

Knowledge, analysis, narratives, policy thinking.

03

Youth agency

Capacity, networks, initiative, action.

04

Enterprise & citizenship

Productive action and public participation.

05

Reform & institutions

Better rules, stronger organisations, accountability.

06

Prosperity across generations

Freer economies and stronger communities.

What YADI controls

Research, educational design, convenings, public ideas, networks, and policy engagement.

What YADI contributes toward

Greater agency, stronger institutions, freer economies, more accountable public life, and long-term prosperity.