Yusuff Liadi is a youth leader and activist, and has devoted his career to advancing democracy and youth participation in politics.
Yusuff is a founder of YouthElect under iLEAD AFRICA, and has launched several initiatives empowering youth in political engagement. Through programs like the Young Political Leaders Forum, Campus Parliamentary Mentorship Programme, National Youth Parliamentary Conference, and Youth Agenda Summit Yusuf fosters dialogue, mentorship, and capacity-building for young leaders. His advocacy for the #NotTooYoungToRun bill led to its enactment in 2018, lowering the age for youth candidacy.
In 2019, Yusuff aimed to become the representative for Ibadan Northeast Constituency 1 in the Oyo State House of Assembly. His broad experience includes training over 10,000 young individuals throughout Africa in political leadership, civic engagement, and digital advocacy, cultivating a fresh cohort of civic leaders deeply engaged in political affairs.
Yusuff’s collaborations with the United Nations SDGs Action Campaign, United Nations Foundation, and UNODC in Nigeria illustrate his dedication to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by empowering youth. His outstanding efforts have earned him prestigious national and international accolades, such as the United Development Young Achiever Leadership Award, GCPIT Global Sustainability Award in India, and selection as one of the 2023 Young Global Changers for the World Policy Forum’s Recouping Awards in Germany.
Through his initiatives, Yusuff remains a source of inspiration, catalysing positive transformation to foster resilient societies and shape sustainable futures.
On Youth Political Participation
“Youth participation in politics is not just a choice, it is a responsibility. The future of our nation depends on the active engagement, fresh perspectives, and innovative solutions that young people bring to the table.”
The WYDE Civic Engagement Network of Young Decision-Makers unites young leaders under 36 years old who are active in politics and decision-making roles, aiming to enhance youth political participation. Members, hailing from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean, will collaborate with peers and Club de Madrid Members to shape global agendas through Policy Labs, fostering informed collective action.
The WYDE Civic Engagement project is a component of the Women and Youth in Democracy Initiative (WYDE) by the European Commission. The project aims to empower youth voices, foster international cooperation, and address the gaps in evidence on youth political engagement. More info on the project can be found on EPD’s website.
