International Youth Day
Conference
“Every Year, IYD transforms lives and redefines the future for all youths in Africa” – Ben Bruce.
What Is IYD
More Than just an Event – A Movement
Vision Alive’s flagship annual event, International Youth Day (IYD), is a TEDx-style gathering that brings together visionary leaders, changemakers, and experts from across Africa and beyond to engage, inspire, and challenge the next generation of African youth.
Each year, IYD is held under a unique, impactful theme that speaks to the current challenges and aspirations of young Africans — from innovation and climate action to leadership, civic engagement, and mental health.
Keynote Speakers
Delivered by thought leaders, entrepreneurs, activists, and professionals who are driving impact in their fields.
Changemaker Awards
Annual recognition of outstanding youth making tangible contributions in their communities.
Our Differentiation
What IYD Unique?
Performance & Storytelling meets Keynote Speech
At IYD, we have found a way to merge educational speeches delivered by world-class keynote speakers with amazing performances by talented people.
Grassroot Focused Awards
We not only believe in rewarding changemakers - of course we do - but we do more than that. We focus a lot of attention on leaders who are causing tangible change in their comunities.
Events That Build Legacy, Not Just Hype
Events like International Youth Day aren’t one-off spectacles. They launch fellowships, incubators, collaborations, and new projects. Our events are springboards for action, not just inspiration.
10
Years since first launch
6000
Young People Transformed
642+
Impactful messages & Showcase
Our Process
Step into Our world
1️⃣ Listening & Research
We begin by engaging young people across different communities to understand their current challenges, dreams, and passions. This insight helps us shape a relevant and powerful theme that reflects the heartbeat of Africa’s youth.
2️⃣ Theme & Strategic Planning
Each year’s IYD is guided by a timely, impact-driven theme aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Our planning team — made up of youth leaders and development experts — outlines a roadmap, timeline, and target outcomes.
3️⃣ Speaker & Partner Engagement
We invite top-tier speakers, grassroots leaders, industry experts, and policymakers who align with our theme. We also collaborate with organizations and sponsors who believe in the power of youth leadership and community transformation.
3️⃣ Speaker & Partner Engagement
Through an open call, we mobilize young people from across the region to register, volunteer, speak, or perform. We also launch nominations for our Grassroots Changemaker Awards, celebrating outstanding impact at the community level.
5️⃣ Execution of the Event
The event is hosted with excellence — featuring keynote speeches, panel discussions, performances, breakout sessions, and the iconic Changemaker Awards Ceremony. From digital check-ins to stage design, we aim to create an unforgettable experience.
6️⃣ Post-Event Engagement & Reporting
After the event, we follow up with attendees, share highlight reels, publish an impact report, and connect youth to ongoing Vision Alive programs like incubators, volunteer corps, or mentorship circles.
IYD Through Photos
We celebrate and so should you
