Forum Background

About the Forum

Bridging the gap between youth, business, and climate action

About the Forum

Why AYBCIF 2026 Matters

Bridging the gap between youth potential and sustainable development opportunities across Africa.

Zen Forward Africa

The driving force behind AYBCIF

Our Vision

A sustainable, innovative, and inclusive Africa powered by youth-driven solutions and forward-thinking partnerships.

Our Mission

To empower young people and communities across Africa through entrepreneurship, climate innovation, capacity-building, and strategic collaboration between youth, businesses, policymakers, and development partners.

Background & Rationale

Kenya's Youth are at the centre of shaping the country's economic, social and environmental future. With over 70% of the population under 35, young people play a pivotal role in entrepreneurship, innovation and climate action.

However, many young people lack access to platforms where they can connect with experts, policymakers, NGOs and the private sector. This forum will bridge that gap by creating a multi-stakeholder dialogue on how youth can be empowered to build businesses, drive green innovation and actively participate in climate solutions.

Youth Innovation Workshop

The Missing Link: Youth x Business x Climate

AYBCIF bridges the critical gap between Africa's vibrant youth population, the business community, and climate action. We create meaningful connections that transform innovative ideas into sustainable solutions, ensuring young voices are heard in boardrooms and policy discussions alike.

Our Objectives

  • 1Inspire and equip youth with knowledge on entrepreneurship, innovation and climate action
  • 2Provide a platform for dialogue, mentorship and networking between youth, corporates, NGOs and policymakers
  • 3Raise awareness of the interconnection between business growth and environmental sustainability
  • 4Showcase youth-led innovations and green startups

Expected Outcomes

  • Strengthened youth knowledge and capacity in business and climate solutions
  • Partnerships between youth, corporates, and NGOs for sustainable projects
  • Practical takeaways for youth to launch or scale green businesses
  • A stronger youth network engaged in climate advocacy and innovation

Event Host & Organizer

Organized by Azenath Cherono Bor, aspiring Lawyer, Youth Empowerment Advocate, Climate Change Advocate, and Humanitarian.

In collaboration with partners including UNEP, UNDP, and leading universities.

Our Vision

To create a platform where African youth can engage with business leaders and climate experts to drive sustainable innovation and economic growth across the continent.

Our Purpose

AYBCIF exists to empower the next generation of African leaders with the knowledge, networks, and resources needed to build sustainable businesses that address climate challenges while creating economic opportunities.

The Missing Link: Youth × Business × Climate

While youth are passionate about climate action and entrepreneurs are driving business innovation, these forces rarely converge effectively. AYBCIF bridges this gap by creating a dynamic ecosystem where young innovators meet established business leaders to co-create sustainable solutions.

Youth Energy

Fresh perspectives, digital fluency, and passion for change

Business Expertise

Resources, experience, and market access for scaling solutions

Climate Urgency

Actionable frameworks for sustainable growth and impact

Forum Background

The Africa Youth, Business & Climate Innovation Forum (AYBCIF) was established in response to the growing need for intergenerational collaboration in addressing Africa's most pressing challenges: youth unemployment, economic development, and climate change.

Since its inception, AYBCIF has brought together thousands of young innovators, business leaders, policymakers, and climate experts from across the continent and beyond. Our forums have catalyzed partnerships, launched ventures, and influenced policy decisions that promote sustainable development.

The 2026 edition marks a significant milestone as we expand our focus to include more hands-on innovation showcases, startup pitch competitions, and direct investment opportunities for climate-focused ventures led by African youth.