Empowering Africa’s Next Generation of Changemakers
The SOLFA Online Academy is a two-year leadership and innovation program designed for African youth aged 16–25 ready to lead solutions in climate, agriculture, education, and social justice.
Through a unique blend of leadership training, social entrepreneurship, systems thinking, and real-world project development, the Academy equips young Africans with the tools to transform ideas into impactful community solutions.
About the SOLFA Online Academy
The SOLFA Online Academy is a transformative learning platform created to prepare young African leaders to address the continent’s most pressing challenges.
This two-year diploma program is designed for young people in their gap year or early career stage who are eager to move beyond theory and develop practical solutions that benefit their communities.
Students gain leadership skills, entrepreneurial thinking, and the ability to design impactful projects aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Through mentorship, structured learning, and hands-on capstone projects, participants graduate not just with knowledge but with tested solutions ready to scale.
Who Should Apply?
The SOLFA Online Academy welcomes passionate young Africans who want to lead change.
Ideal participants include:
- Young people aged 16–25 passionate about social impact
- Gap-year students exploring leadership and innovation pathways
- Early-stage entrepreneurs building community solutions
- Youth advocates interested in climate, agriculture, education, or social justice
- Future leaders seeking mentorship, global exposure, and practical experience
No previous experience is required
Only curiosity, commitment, and a desire to create change.
News & Updates
Latest stories, events, and activities from the FM Scholars Program and SOLFA community.
New Student Intake
Welcoming the newest cohort of FM Scholars to the SOLFA Academy program.
Mentorship Session
Connecting our scholars with global leaders and experienced professionals.
Tree Planting Activity
Students taking action against climate change by planting trees in local communities.
Community Outreach Program
Engaging with the local community to provide educational resources and support.
School Sports Day
Promoting teamwork and physical health through our annual school sports event.
Youth Leadership Workshop
Empowering young minds with essential leadership and communication skills.
Our Curriculum
The SOLFA Online Academy curriculum is designed to combine leadership development, entrepreneurship, innovation, and real-world application. Over the course of two years, students progress through three core academic pillars and select specialized electives aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. The program culminates in a capstone project where students design and pilot real solutions to community challenges.
Leadership & Governance
Students explore ethical leadership grounded in African values and historical leadership traditions.
Topics include:
- Ethical Leadership and Ubuntu philosophy
- Civic engagement and policy advocacy
- Governance systems across African contexts
- Strategic project management for social initiatives
Outcome:
Students graduate with the leadership mindset and governance knowledge needed to guide community transformation.
Enterprise & Sustainable Economics
Participants learn how to build sustainable initiatives that combine social impact with strong financial and operational foundations.
Topics include:
- Social entrepreneurship and design thinking
- Financial literacy and budgeting
- Grant writing and fundraising strategies
- Impact measurement and institutional partnerships
Outcome:
Students gain the ability to build financially sustainable organizations and community ventures.
Innovation & Impact Communication
Students develop tools to understand complex societal challenges and communicate solutions effectively.
Topics include:
- Systems thinking and problem mapping
- Digital storytelling and social media strategy
- Monitoring and evaluation tools
- Data-informed decision-making
Outcome:
Students become skilled communicators capable of amplifying their impact and influencing policy, institutions, and communities.
SDG Electives
Students choose two electives aligned with major global challenges.
Regenerative Agriculture
Design climate-resilient farming solutions to improve food security and soil regeneration.
Climate Advocacy & Policy
Develop campaigns and strategies to influence climate policy and community awareness.
Youth Mental Health & Wellbeing
Design youth support systems and mental health advocacy initiatives.
Gender Equity & Social Justice
Create programs that address gender disparities and empower marginalized communities.
Equitable Education Innovation
Develop inclusive education solutions for underserved communities.
Clean Water & Urban Resilience
Design solutions addressing sanitation, water access, and urban infrastructure challenges.
Digital Technology for Development
Build civic tech tools that improve access to information and public services.
Peacebuilding & Institutional Strengthening
Design initiatives that promote justice, conflict resolution, and institutional trust.
Capstone Project
In the final phase of the program, students develop and pilot a real project addressing a major community challenge.
This includes:
- Problem research
- Mentorship from ecosystem experts
- Pilot testing and implementation
- Public presentation at the Capstone Symposium
Outcome:
Graduates leave the program with a tested project, mentorship support, and access to the SOLFA ecosystem.
Pathways After Graduation
SOLFA Academy connects graduates to a growing network of institutions and opportunities.
Through partnerships with universities, fellowships, and development organizations, graduates gain access to opportunities such as:
- •University recognition and academic credit pathways
- •Fellowship pipelines including YALI, Anzisha, and Ashoka
- •Innovation ecosystem support through organizations like TEF and UNDP Labs
- •Internship and fellowship placements in NGOs, policy institutions, and development programs
The Academy ensures that graduates continue their leadership journey long after the program ends.
A FUTURE-FIRST ECOSYSTEM OF OPPORTUNITY
SOLFA: Where Tech Careers Start
Courses
Hubs
Voices
Join Africa’s Next Generation of Changemakers
Africa’s future will be shaped by bold thinkers, ethical leaders, and innovative problem-solvers.
The SOLFA Online Academy exists to equip young Africans with the knowledge, networks, and tools to build that future.
If you are ready to transform your ideas into real impact, this is your opportunity.