IYF welcomes 20,000 youth for season 8 of free weekend academy
The International Youth Fellowship (IYF) has launched the 8th season of its Free Weekend Academy, welcoming over 20,000 young people to a transformative skills training program. This milestone follows the successful graduation of Cohort 7, reinforcing IYF’s dedication to equipping youth with practical skills and fostering mindset transformation.
The orientation event took place at IYF Headquarters, Mahanaim University in Roysambu, drawing an overwhelming crowd of over 20,000 young people eager to seize new opportunities. The road along USIU University towards Safari Park was heavily congested with enthusiastic youth from across the country, highlighting the academy’s significant impact.
Speaking at the orientation ceremony, Emily Maina, Director of Youth Social Development at the Ministry of Youth Affairs, underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing youth empowerment challenges.
“As the Ministry of Youth and Economy, our mandate is to equip young people with the skills, creativity, and entrepreneurial mindset they need to thrive. While the government plays a central role, we cannot do it alone. That is why partnerships with organizations like IYF are essential in bridging the skills gap and expanding opportunities for Kenyan youth,” said Maina.
The IYF Free Weekend Academy offers a diverse range of 31 skill-based courses, including Plumbing, Beauty & Hairdressing, Catering, Camera Operations, Computer Packages, Fashion & Design, Digital Marketing, Artificial Intelligence, Carpentry & Design, Paramedic Training, and Engineering. The program primarily targets Form 4 graduates and disadvantaged youth who encounter financial barriers to furthering their education.
Since its establishment in 2007, the IYF Free Weekend Academy has trained and certified over 60,000 graduates. Many of these alumni have successfully launched businesses, secured employment, and contributed positively to their communities. Operating on a three-month weekend-based model, the academy enables students to acquire practical skills while balancing other personal and professional responsibilities.
Beyond technical training, IYF integrates mindset education and character development into its curriculum, instilling confidence, discipline, and leadership qualities in participants. Additionally, the top-performing students earn scholarships for further education in collaboration with Mahanaim College, a sister organization.
With youth unemployment in Kenya at an all-time high, the IYF Free Weekend Academy provides practical solutions to help young people gain skills, become self-reliant, and create employment opportunities. This event marks the largest intake yet, showcasing a scalable model for youth empowerment in Kenya and beyond