Young Citizens Forum - Frequently Asked Questions

The Young Citizens Forum (YCF), previously known as the Young Leaders Forum (YLF), is a multidisciplinary program that addresses social, economic, and political challenges at national, continental, and global levels. It brings together talented young individuals and political activists dedicated to promoting social justice and democracy. The program has been active for over 20 years and has more than 500 alumni, some of whom hold notable leadership positions in the country and worldwide.

Participants gather for 2-3 days each session between May and November at the FES Office in Dar es Salaam. The sessions address a wide range of topics and skills, including essential communication, design thinking, social justice, urbanization, the global economy, and just transition. Participants engage directly in these sessions, which also include community visits to apply what they have learned. Some sessions are conducted online.

Feedback from alumni indicates that their participation in the program was life-changing, as it helped them gain crucial new skills and knowledge. The forum fosters mutual and transformative learning. Additionally, the network of peers formed during the year, along with more than 500 alumni since the program's inception in the early 2000s, provides valuable support.

Sessions are conducted in English; participants need to be fluent in English.

Yes, a certificate of participation is awarded at the end of the program.

You can apply online by visiting https://tanzania.fes.de/e/ycf2025 and completing the application form. Please read the application information carefully and ensure that you fill in your details accurately.

The selection process includes both a written test and an oral interview. For Mainland applicants, this will take place on the 1-2 April 2025 and 8th of April for Zanzibar applicants. Successful applicants will be enrolled in the program after this final stage.

Please note that using AI-generated responses in your application will result in disqualification. If you need assistance, such as the provision of sign language interpreters, please let us know.

This is a fair and competence-based opportunity. The selection process does not discriminate against gender, race, disability, or religion.

To be considered eligible, the applicant must be:

• Between 21 and 35 years old
• Tanzanian and currently residing in Tanzania (Mainland and Zanzibar) and should be in the country during implementation
• Holders of a Bachelor's Degree or equivalent or pursuing first degree by the time of application

We strongly encourage young women, people with disabilities and people from other diverse backgrounds to apply.

We are looking for individuals who demonstrate a strong commitment to social or political causes. This can include active involvement in civil society organizations, political parties, or trade unions. Ideal candidates take personal initiative, are passionate about making a positive impact in their communities, and are engaged in efforts to promote social justice, equality, and civic participation. Whether through grassroots movements, advocacy, or volunteer work, we value those who contribute meaningfully to societal progress.

Due to the high number of applications each year, it usually takes up to four weeks from the application's last day to announcing the final selection of successful applicants. Please watch your email and our social media pages closely for updates on your application status. All direct official communication from FES to the applicants will come through the email address info.tanzania(at)fes.de or the phone number +255 22 2668 575. 

Yes, applicants are encouraged to apply again. Many applicants have been selected after more than one trial.

The program accepts at least 20 participants from various disciplines in the cohort.

No, the interview process involves both written and oral interviews which are conducted in person, in Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar respectively. Selected applicants from up-country will have to travel to the FES office in Dar es Salaam for the interview. All costs are covered by FES. Selected applicants from Zanzibar will be notified of the location for the interview in Zanzibar.

FES Tanzania covers all expenses related to the program. Please be aware that you will not need to pay a participation fee, either during the application process or throughout the program. Additionally, FES Tanzania will provide transport and accommodation costs for residents from upcountry and Zanzibar.

If you have further questions, please email info.tanzania(at)fes.de or call +255 22 2668 575.