The Mastercard Foundation Kenya Youth Advisory Group (KYAG), implemented in partnership with IREX, aims to ensure meaningful engagement, active participation, representation, and the inclusion of perspectives, lived experiences, and advice from young people on the design, development, and delivery of activities undertaken by the Mastercard Foundation and its partners in Kenya.

• Composed of young people in Kenya aged 18-35 from diverse backgrounds (rural, young people with disability, refugees, 70% female, etc.).
• Members have led or show potential for impactful initiatives.   

KYAG will ensure that all programs are designed and delivered to meet the needs of Kenya’s young people. Composed of diverse young people in Kenya, KYAG will advise and provide strategic guidance to the Mastercard Foundation Kenya team, their stakeholders, and program partners as they develop, implement, and evaluate strategic directions and programs.

KYAG Members will:

• Provide insights and guidance on strategy and program design to reflect the needs and experiences of young people in Kenya.
• Offer advice and feedback on initiative implementation and systems change to ensure youth perspectives are included.
• Develop channels to reach diverse young people and elevate their voices to inform Foundation decision-making.
• Contribute to the development, management, and evolution of the Foundation’s Alumni Network in Kenya.
• Attend events and participate as speakers or facilitators on occasion.
• Support information dissemination and build linkages with other youth networks.

Who is eligible to join?

Young people in Kenya aged 18-35 from diverse backgrounds (rural, young people with disability, refugees, etc.,) with leadership experience or potential and available 24 hours per month. Preference given to those without similar opportunities.

How can someone be nominated?

Mastercard Foundation partner organizations with a direct relationship to the nominee (e.g., supported or collaborated on their work) must submit the nomination form by May 23, 2025, to cisanda@irex.org or IREX Kenya Office, Sanlam Tower, Nairobi.

What is the nomination timeline?

Nominations open May 12, 2025 and close May 23, 2025. Selection occurs May 26 - June 6, interviews (if needed) June 9 - 13, with members announced June 18 and onboarded June 30, 2025.

What are the benefits of joining KYAG?

Members influence programs, receive leadership training, network with 100,000+ alumni, gain stipends (details via cisanda@irex.org), travel support, and recognition at high-profile events.

For inquires, email: cisanda@irex.org.