2011 Dialogue with Young African Leaders & First Lady’s Young African Women Leaders Forum

In May 2011, the U.S. Government hosted "The dialogue with Young African Leaders." The month-long Dialogue targeted youth throughout Africa and featured over 200 programs and activities in 27 countries. The programs included moderated discussions, digital video conferences with U.S. counterparts, in-country leadership and new media skills training, cultural events, issue-oriented public advocacy campaigns, and interactive seminars. These events helped showcase the efforts of young Africans in the field, expand skill-sets, and strengthen networks. In June 2011, the U.S. Government hosted a two-day workshop and conference for women from across Africa in Johannesburg and Soweto, South Africa. The Forum featured 76 young African women leaders. First Lady Michelle Obama addressed the conference and participated in some of its activities. The Forum promoted the role of women in all spheres of African life and focused on themes such as leadership, women’s empowerment, and community service.