Forum Agenda
AFD2023 is an event that aims to generate actionable solutions through meaningful conversations. Unlike traditional conferences, there will be no podiums or panels. The event will allow all participants to engage in intimate, transparent, and innovative discussions.
honorary Guests
WED
November 1
Solutions Day
All Day
[Invite Only]
IMAGINING OUR FUTURE: A YOUTH-FOCUSED DAY ON FORCED DISPLACEMENT IN AFRICA
Join us for solutions-oriented series of sessions dedicated to listening to and learning with refugee youth who are leading in various sectors to address the displacement crisis on the continent. The day’s sessions will include workshops and interactive sessions and will shine a spotlight on the voices of young leaders to ensure their perspectives are heard and considered. The audience will include influential leaders from the private sector, government, and refugee-focused organizations such as UNHCR, all of whom have committed to listening to these youth voices to better understand the actual issues and how they can change their approach to create sustainable social impact. Whether you’re a student, a young professional, CEO or simply passionate about making a difference, this is an event you won’t want to miss. It will also be a chance to meet the first cohort of the Amahoro Fellows who would have completed their first in-person
18:00-19:30
Welcome Cocktail Reception
Thu
November 2
morning sessions
From the Griots
kicking off
#AFD2023
During the Forum’s opening session, influential leaders and experts from various disciplines, such as climate change, financial inclusion, geopolitics & security, and international development, will deliver rapid-fire TED-style talks lasting 5-10 minutes. The talks will provide context on the displacement crisis in Africa. Additionally, the session will feature performances by African artists who use their voices and talent to change the narrative around displacement in Africa.
In Search of Solutions
The session will introduce the audience to the Forum’s core theme of finding solutions to tackle the prevalent displacement crisis across the continent. The co-convenes of the Forum will facilitate a conversation focused on the journey since the 2021 event and set the objectives and tone for the 2023 Forum.
Solution
EMPLOYMENT & ENTREPRENEURSHIP: PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS FOR THE PRIVATE SECTOR TO GET INVOLVED
This session will feature conversations among leaders from government, academia, and civil society to share their experiences and insights on unlocking bottlenecks that impede refugees’ access to education and livelihood opportunities. The sessions will provide practical and actionable solutions that partners can implement to ensure refugees have smoother transitions into education institutions and further into employment or entrepreneurship opportunities.
Solution
THE REFUGEE INVESTMENT CHALLENGE
The session is designed to provide the audience with a real-life simulation of investing in refugee markets to create practical recommendations on how private-sector investments and resources can be channeled into refugee economies. The session will equip private sector participants with the knowledge of the modes of investment they can utilize to successfully enter and operate in refugee economies.
13:00-14:00
lunch break
Afternoon sessions
Solution
FOR REFUGEES, BY REFUGEES - BUILDING REFUGEE LEADERSHIP ON THE CONTINENT
How do we build a cadre of refugee leaders with the influence, networks, and resources to become change-makers in the private, public, and third sectors? This conversation will delve into this crucial question and explore solutions to support refugees accessing leadership positions to create long-lasting change. The session will draw on the experiences of successful refugee leaders who have overcome the odds and are now making significant contributions in their respective fields. It will also highlight some existing solutions that enable refugees to overcome the unique challenges they face in their leadership journeys.
WALKING THE JOURNEY
Forum attendees will participate in an experiential activity where they will be challenged with different scenarios to create an environment to learn more about displacement issues across the continent. The activities will also highlight ways the private sector can work more collaboratively with governments, international NGOs, and civil society to address this crisis.
19:00-22:00
GALA DINNER
Fri
November 3
From the Griots
RECAPPING DAY ONE SETTING THE TONE FOR DAY TWO
Solutions
FAITH-LED SOLUTIONS TO THE DISPLACEMENT CRISIS IN AFRICA
How does Faith influence and guide our approach to solving the displacement crisis on the continent? This session will bring together inter-faith leaders to explore how values espoused in most religions can guide us to welcome and support displaced people. The session will also explore the challenges and opportunities for inter-faith collaboration and how religious leaders can work with other stakeholders to create a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
Solutions
STRATEGIC PHILANTHROPY- CATALYSING LOCAL & STRATEGIC GIVING ON THE CONTINENT
The Learning Lab on Strategic Philanthropy will explore the shift African companies are making to address Africa’s pressing issues. Philanthropy has the power to create real and lasting change in addressing the continent’s protracted displacement crisis, but it requires a strategic and sustainable approach; further mobilizing key stakeholders can be a challenge. Through a case study and facilitated conversation, attendees will discuss the best practices in strategic philanthropy, identify bottlenecks in the current philanthropic landscape, and discuss opportunities for creating effective philanthropic strategies that address local social needs while aligning with business objectives. Attendees will leave this session with new strategies, knowledge, and inspiration to take a more strategic approach to philanthropy and make a real difference in the displacement crisis and other social impact issues on the continent.
13:00-14:00
lunch break
Afternoon sessions
BREAKING BARRIERS
LEVERAGING THE CREATIVE INDUSTRY AND SPORTS TO SUPPORT TALENTED DISPLACED YOUTH
The creative and entertainment industries have the power to transform lives and create opportunities for individuals to showcase and monetize their skills and talent. For refugees, the opportunities these industries present, coupled with the power of technology, can provide a pathway to economic inclusion and a means out of poverty. The discussion will focus on how actors in these industries can provide training, mentorship, and funding opportunities for forcibly displaced youth seeking careers in these fields. The speakers will include successful refugees who have accessed opportunities in the creative and sports industry and who will share their stories first-hand to challenge the audience to come up with innovative solutions and ideas supporting talented refugees and breaking down barriers to access livelihood opportunities.
Youth solutions
A CHALLENGE TO ACTION
The session will be facilitated by a group of youth leaders who will present the solutions that were discussed during the Youth Day discussions on the first day of the event. The leaders themselves will showcase their unique perspectives and experiences in tackling the challenges they face.. Attendees can expect to gain valuable insights into the innovative solutions proposed by the youth and the impact they can have in improving the lives of refugees worldwide.