Agenda Key
Energy Transition Theatre
Interactive discussions on what energy transition looks like and how can delegates prepare for jobs in the sector.
Tomorrow’s World Theatre
Presenting technologies, AI & digitalisation, and innovative energy sources for tomorrow.
Youth Activation Theatre
Key discussions on creating an environment in which the next generation of industry leaders and innovators can thrive.
Learning & Development
Credible organisations will share their expertise through interactive training courses with real life examples to help build the bridge between academia and industry.
Recruiters Spotlight
A range of companies/organisations will present their graduate recruitment and internship programmes and give insights into the role of their organisation in the energy development universe, providing insights into the vast range of jobs available in the sector.
Entrepreneurs Arena
Entrepreneurs are invited to pitch their business ideas to industry experts who will offer guidance, and some will also offer funding!
Ask the Experts
Drop-in Clinic - Delegates can join 20-minute small group meetings with leading experts in the sector from aef, who will be able to guide you on everything from career advice to what their day to job looks like.
Day One: Wednesday 18 June 2024
07:30-08:30 Registration & Networking Coffee YES! Opening Ceremony
08:30 -09:00 YES! Opening Remarks:
09:00-09:30 The YES! Generation: Why Youth Should Be Excited About the Energy Sector!
09:30-10:30 Ministerial Roundtable: Policy Makers on Youth Activation
How are government policies shaping youth engagement in Africa’s energy transition? What are the key regional priorities? In this session, ministers will showcase impactful public sector projects and share insights into their strategies for driving meaningful change. They will also offer perspectives on encouraging collaboration between policymakers, academia, and industry leaders to create opportunities for both youth and the industry.
10:30-11:00 Networking Coffee
12:30-13:30
Opportunity vs Reality: The State of Play of the Transition
What does the energy transition truly mean for Africa? This session will examine the readiness of infrastructure, the role of transitional energy sources, the outcomes of COP negotiations, and the impact of geopolitics. It will also explore the potential for employment and innovation within the sector. Reflecting on the current state of the transition, we’ll ask: how realistic is the journey to a green economy for the continent?
The Future of Energy: Tomorrow’s Jobs
This session will explore the future of energy and the exciting careers it will create. From emerging energy sources to cutting-edge technologies transforming the industry, we will uncover the skills and opportunities needed to shape the energy sector of tomorrow.
Secrets to Preparing a Successful Business Plan Hosted by:
Goal Setting, Planning and Future Proofing: Essential Leadership Skills
Shortlisted
Entrepreneurs
Presenting:
Community based initiatives driving education
Hosted by:
You’ll hear about company visions, ESG policy and learn more about their employment schemes
Hosted By:
Information on application processes, tips on how to standout and get that role.
Small group meetings with leading experts in the sector, to give career advice and insights into their role.
Moderator: Speakers:
Moderator: Speakers:
Trainers: Trainers: Moderator:
Entrepreneurs:
Hosted By: Expert Host Project Finance
Judging Panellists: You’ll hear about company visions, ESG policy and learn more about their employment schemes
Hosted By: Expert Host from Energy Consultant
13:30-15:00
15:00-15:30
Host Country Feature: Focusing on Renewables Job Creation
The IPP office and The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) will host a session highlighting their perspective on key solutions for youth employment in the energy sector.
Tech-Driven Transformation:
Digital Skills and AI in the Energy Sector
How will digital transformation and AI shape the future of energy? This session will explore technologies like digital twinning, predictive maintenance, and energy-specific software, highlighting their role in optimising renewable systems and driving efficiency. We’ll also discuss the skills and careers emerging in this evolving landscape, from data scientists to software engineers and business analysts. Getting Your Project Investment Ready
Navigating The Digital World as a Professional: Online Safety and Security Hosted by:
Shortlisted Entrepreneurs
Presenting: Off Grid and Micro Grid initiatives. Information on application processes, tips on how to standout and get that role.
Hosted By:
Expert Host: Legal Counsel
Moderator: Speakers:
Moderator: Speakers:
Trainers: Trainers: Moderator: Entrepreneurs:
You’ll hear about company visions, ESG policy and learn more about their employment schemes
Hosted By: Expert Host Senior Leader IPP
Judging Panellists: Information on application processes, tips on how to standout and get that role.
Hosted By: Expert Host Senior Leader Utility
Bridging the Knowledge Gap: Collaboration Between Industry and Academia
How can academia and private industry collaborate to overcome knowledge gaps in renewable energy training? What are the critical skills that need to be developed to prepare young people for careers in the renewable energy?
Engineers of the Future: The Development of Engineering in energy
How are engineering roles going to change with technological changes? This session will examine how to prepare to be tomorrow’s engineer with the emergence of:
• New materials and use of a broader range of metals
• AI and Machine learning and advances in computing
• Shift from fuels to electrification
Protecting Your Business: Legal Matters to Consider as an SME
Growing From Setbacks: Using Past Hurdles to Create Success
Shortlisted Entrepreneurs
Presenting: Community projects focusing on reducing socio-economic gaps. You’ll
Hosted By:
Hosted by:
Information on application processes, tips on how to standout and get that role.
By:
Moderator: Speakers:
Moderator: Speakers:
Trainers: Trainers: Moderator:
Entrepreneurs: Judging Panellists: You’ll hear about company visions, ESG policy and learn more about their employment schemes
Hosted By:
Day Two: Thursday 19 June 2025
08:00-09:00 Registration & Networking Coffee
Harvesting the Power of the Sun: The Potential in Solar
This session will examine the potential of the solar market in electrifying the continent. What are the opportunities that the industry will create? The session will highlight insights for successful projects, the whole lifecycle opportunities beyond installation, on grid and off grid solutions and a deep dive into trends and potential across the continent.
The Journey Towards Green Hydrogen
Could Africa become a global leader in green hydrogen? This session will explore the continent's potential to drive the hydrogen revolution, focusing on opportunities to transition the gas industry and adapt existing infrastructure for future technologies. We’ll also discuss strategies to empower workforce upskilling, enabling talent from the oil and gas sector to transition into hydrogen expertise.
Embracing Your Entrepreneur Potential: Transforming Your Mindset for Success
If I Was President for a Day…
Understanding Policy Challenges
Hosted by:
Hosted by:
Shortlisted Entrepreneurs
Presenting: Energy Solutions for Rural Electrification Information on application processes, tips on how to standout and get that role.
Hosted By:
Expert Host: CEO
10:30-11:00
Moderator:
Speakers:
Moderator: Speakers: Trainers: Trainers: Moderator:
You’ll hear about company visions, ESG policy and learn more about their employment schemes
Hosted By: Expert Host Senior Leader Mining
Entrepreneurs: Judging Panellists: Information on application processes, tips on how to standout and get that role.
Hosted By: Expert Host Business Development & Sales
12:30-13:30
Critical Questions: Mobilising Mineral Resources
How can Africa’s wealth of critical minerals be mobilised to support the energy transition in an equitable and sustainable way?
This session will examine the growing demand for these essential resources, the opportunities they create for youth, and the potential for value creation across the supply chain from extraction and processing to sales and export.
Driving the Future: Getting EVs on the Road
What are the key challenges in electric vehicle adoption? This session will explore the continent’s potential to embrace EVs, focusing on the infrastructure challenges and innovative solutions such as microgrids and battery-swapping initiatives to address these unique challenges. We’ll also discuss the skills needed to succeed in this emerging sector, from electrical engineering to systems design, and highlight pathways for young entrepreneurs to engage in shaping the future of electrified transport. Financing Solutions for Microgrids Hosted by:
and Present Leaders, The Journey of Decision Makers
Moderator: Speakers:
Moderator: Speakers: Trainers: Trainers:
Information on application processes, tips on how to standout and get that role. Hosted By: Expert Host Business Lawyer
13:30-15:00
15:00-15:30
The Future of Wind Power
This session will explore the market potential of wind energy development in Africa, examining regional power density and the opportunities it presents. Beyond installation, we’ll discuss roles in monitoring and control systems, environmental expertise, data analysis, and the importance of local engagement and communication.
Spotlight Session: Foundational Partner
A YES! foundational partner will host a session with their partners to give their unique perspective on youth empowerment in the energy sector.
Meet The Investors: Insights Into Investor Mindset.
Sales Masterclass: Salesperson Deep Dive
Hosted by: Shortlisted Entrepreneurs Presenting: Energy Solutions for Agriculture Information on application processes, tips on how to standout and get that role.
Hosted By:
Expert Host: Entrepreneur
Moderator: Speakers:
Moderator: Speakers:
Hosted by:
You’ll hear about company visions, ESG policy and learn more about their employment schemes
Hosted By:
Trainers: Trainers: Moderator: Entrepreneurs: Judging Panellists: Information on application processes, tips on how to standout and get that role.
Expert Host Senior Leader Solar
Hosted By: Expert Host Marketing/ Communicati ons
Spotlight Session: Foundational Partner
A YES! foundational partner will host a session with their partners to give their unique perspective on electrifying the continent.
Encouraging Youth Innovation in the Development of Future Energy Technologies
How can Africa’s young innovators drive the continent’s energy future, and what can industry leaders, governments, and stakeholders do to support them? This session will explore opportunities for youth to lead advancements in energy storage, off-grid solutions, and scalable renewable technologies. It will also examine the critical role of partnerships, investment, and policy in creating an environment where youth-led innovation can thrive, addressing Africa’s unique energy challenges. Essential Digital Tools for SMEs
Hosted by:
Preparing for a career in R&D: Opportunities and required skills
Shortlisted
Entrepreneurs
Presenting:
Digitalisation
Solutions for Energy Market
You’ll hear about company visions, ESG policy and learn more about their employment schemes
Hosted By:
Expert Host: Engineer: Wind
Information on application processes, tips on how to standout and get that role.
Hosted By:
Expert Host Academia
Moderator:
Speakers:
Moderator: Speakers:
Trainers:
Moderator:
Entrepreneurs:
Judging Panellists: You’ll hear about company visions, ESG policy and learn more about their employment schemes
Hosted By:
Expert Host Business Analyst/Data Scientist
Day Three: Friday 20 June 2025
08:00-09:00 Registration & Networking Coffee
09:00-10:30 Energy Transition Theatre
A YES! foundational partner will host a session with their partners to give their unique perspective on electrifying the continent. Ideas to Impact: Financing Youthled Energy Solutions
This session will explore the financing challenges in turning youth-led energy ideas into impactful solutions. The session will highlight successful case studies and discuss key strategies for securing financial support, overcoming barriers to funding, and scaling energy projects across the continent
Moderator: Speakers: Moderator: Speakers:
09:00-10:30 Closed Door Session: Together We Go Further
Hosted By:
You’ll hear about company visions, ESG policy and learn more about their employment schemes
Hosted
Trainers: Trainers: Moderator: Entrepreneurs: Judging Panellists: Information on application processes, tips on how to standout and get that role.
Hosted By: Expert Host Director/Head of Projects
This closed-door session will bring together foundations and NGOs, and relevant stakeholders to discuss potential for further cross-collaboration, partnership opportunities and how we can create a thriving ecosystem of opportunity for YES! alumni. Deliverable action points will be brought away from this discussion.
10:30-11:00 Networking Coffee
From Conception to Reality: Bringing Energy Projects to Success
What drives the success of renewable energy development projects? This session will explore the factors behind project success, analyse common reasons for project failures, and explore the biggest obstacles project lifecycles face. Through actionable strategies and examples of successful initiatives, we will uncover what it takes to turn ideas into impactful projects, and how to apply these lessons to ensure success in your own energy intiatives.
The Role of African Youth in Energy Policy and Advocacy
This session will explore the role of African youth in shaping energy policy and advocating for sustainable solutions. It will highlight how young leaders are influencing energy decision-making at local, national, and regional levels, and examine the power of youth-driven advocacy in driving policy change. The session will also provide insights into effective strategies for engaging in energy policy discussions, building coalitions, and mobilising support for youth-led initiatives, ensuring that the voices of the next generation are heard in the continent’s energy transition.
Presenting: Energy Solutions for Mobile Healthcare You’ll hear about company visions, ESG policy and learn more about their employment schemes Hosted By:
Information on application processes, tips on how to standout and get that role. Hosted By:
Moderator:
Speakers:
Moderator: Speakers:
Trainers: Trainers: Moderator: Entrepreneurs: Judging Panellists: You’ll hear about company visions, ESG policy and learn more about their employment schemes
11:00-12:30 Closed Door Session: How do we Bridge the Knowledge Gap in Renewables Training?
This closed-door session will bring together private sector professionals and academics to explore the critical skills needed to prepare students for careers in the renewable industry. The discussion will cover what universities should focus on to equip the next generation of workers, and how private sector programs can help young people transition smoothly from education to the workforce. At the end of the session, participating organisations will leave with actionable takeaways and potential partnership opportunities.
12:30-13:30 Networking Lunch
13:30-14:30 Closing Awards Ceremony – Recognising Exceptional YES! Participants of 2024