MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERVISORY BOARD
We also welcome the groundwork laid for launching a social enterprise—an innovative initiative designed to create impact while generating revenue through renewable energy solutions. These revenues will be reinvested into Young Africa’s strategic activities. This is a strong example of operational excellence, especially at a time when development perspectives are shifting and competition for funding is intensifying. The Supervisory Board is pleased to note that all activities in 2024 were completed within the year’s total generated income. Recognised income grew by 55% and the continuity reserve by 139%—clear evidence of effective financial control and professional management. Composition of the Supervisory Board (as of 31 December 2024) Frans van Midde, Chair; Internal Auditor at Cordaid Member since January 2021 Kees Cluistra, Chair of the Audit Committee; Financial Director at Van Gelder Groep Member since January 2021 Bas Beek, Chair of the Risk Committee; Director at Edukans Member since January 2021 Hilke Tol, Chair of the Governance Committee; Independent Organisational Consultant / Interim Manager Member since January 2021 Eduard Holtz, Member of the Risk Committee; Partnership Manager at Amref Flying Doctors Member since January 2021 Hubert Visser, Member of the Audit Committee; Partner at Forvis Mazars Member since October 2021 Dr Mary Muchena-Stredwick, Member of the Risk Committee; CEO of Folkestone Rainbow Centre (UK) Member since December 2023
Young Africa International Supervisory Board (L-R): Safari Mbewe, Mary Muchena, Eduard Holtz, Hilke Tol, Frans van Midde, Hubert Visser, Bas Beek In 2024, the Supervisory Board reaffirmed its commitment to strong governance and operational excellence. From the outset, we emphasised that integrity and safeguarding are non-negotiable principles guiding all our work—whether in our offices or in collaboration with volunteers, partners, and the young people participating in our programmes. As part of our annual responsibilities, the Board conducted a performance review with the Chief Executive Officer. The review met the expectations of both parties and led to the confirmation of shared objectives and ambitions for 2025. Additionally, the Board undertook a self-assessment, facilitated by Bateleur Partners. This process encouraged critical reflection on our internal and external communication practices and resulted in valuable recommendations for enhancing our performance. In August, the Board visited the HUB in Harare, including mobile programme sites and Young Africa Zimbabwe’s training centre in Chitungwiza. These visits provided meaningful insights into the pressing needs and challenges facing our target group in the Global South. They also helped strengthen our relationship with the Management Board and enhanced our ability to provide informed, realistic, and constructive oversight. We commend the Management Board for its strategic partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, which aims to reach 18,000 young people in Nigeria through the Youth Employability Booster project. We are confident that collaboration with the Risk Committee will ensure sound management of the risks associated with the scale and complexity of this initiative.
We also note with regret the departure of Mr. Safari Mbewe, Member of the Governance Committee, in September 2024. Recruitment for his successor is currently underway. Looking ahead, the Board remains fully committed to Young Africa’s long-term vision and strategy. We look forward to continued collaboration with employees, volunteers, partners, and other stakeholders in 2025 as we work toward our ambitious goal of providing vocational training and entrepreneurship opportunities to half a million young people across Africa by the end of the year. Amsterdam, 25 June 2025 Frans van Midde Chair of the Supervisory Board 26
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