East African Youth Network Participates in the Commonwealth Youth Leaders’ Summit in London, United Kingdom
London, UK – March 2025
From 3–14 March 2025, the East African Youth Network (EAYN) proudly joined the Commonwealth Youth Program for the Commonwealth Youth Leaders’ Summit held in London, UK. The two-week event brought together over 40 inspiring youth leaders from across the Commonwealth to strengthen collaboration on youth-led initiatives and explore emerging issues in youth development. The summit, hosted by the Commonwealth Secretariat, served as a platform for young change makers from regional youth councils, Commonwealth youth networks, and partner organizations to build their capacity, exchange ideas, and raise their voices on a global stage.
Empowering Youth Through Leadership Training
During the first week of the summit (3–7 March 2025), EAYN team members took part in intensive capacity-building workshops focused on:
- Governance and Leadership
- Advocacy and Policy Engagement
- Strategic Communications
- Organizational Planning and Development
These sessions offered participants a deep dive into the workings of the Commonwealth Secretariat, its youth-focused programs, and strategies for advancing youth development across member states.
“The training not only equipped us with practical tools to lead more effectively but also deepened our understanding of how youth voices can shape global policy,” said an EAYN representative
Highlight Events: Celebrating Youth and Unity
Commonwealth Day Service and Reception
📍 Westminster Abbey & Marlborough House
📅 10 March 2025
EAYN had the honour of attending the Commonwealth Day Service, a prestigious event held at Westminster Abbey, attended by HM The King, senior government officials, diplomats, and civil society leaders. Following the service, participants were welcomed at a Commonwealth Reception at Marlborough House, where they had the opportunity to engage in dialogue with policymakers and other international youth delegates.
Commonwealth Youth Awards
📅 12 March 2025
The EAYN team also participated in the Commonwealth Youth Awards, a ceremony recognizing young leaders whose innovative work is making a tangible impact in areas such as climate action, education, health, and gender equality. The awards served as a reminder of the incredible potential of youth-led initiatives in driving sustainable development across the Commonwealth.
Representing East Africa on the Global Stage
As a regional voice for young people, the East African Youth Network used the summit to share ongoing projects, highlight regional youth challenges, and forge meaningful partnerships with like-minded organizations. The team’s presence reinforced the importance of East African youth engagement in global decision-making spaces.
“Joining this summit has allowed us to build lasting networks, exchange best practices, and amplify the unique experiences of East African youth within the Commonwealth family,” said another delegate from EAYN.
Looking Ahead
The EAYN team returns from London energized and equipped with new strategies, global perspectives, and action plans that will be rolled out across East Africa in the months ahead. This collaboration with the Commonwealth Youth Program marks a significant milestone in EAYN’s journey — one grounded in youth empowerment, partnership, and impact.
📲 Stay Connected
Catch up on the summit highlights and behind-the-scenes moments by visiting our social platforms and following the hashtags #EAYNinLondon and #CWYouthSummit2025.
👉 Learn more about the East African Youth Network: www.eaynet.org
👉 More about the Commonwealth Youth Program: https://thecommonwealth.org/our-work/youth
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