The Green Africa Youth Organization (GAYO) has opened applications for the position of Director of the Africa Youth Climate Fund (AYCF)—a groundbreaking, youth-centered climate finance initiative that empowers Africa’s young climate innovators, activists, and movements. This remote, highly competitive leadership opportunity invites African nationals — including Africans living in the diaspora — to spearhead one of the continent’s most visionary youth-led climate funding mechanisms.

The AYCF Director will serve as the founding leader responsible for establishing the Fund’s foundational systems, expanding its reach, mobilizing climate finance resources, and ensuring that African youth have equitable access to financial support for climate action. Starting in January 2026, this two-year position (renewable based on performance) is ideal for an experienced, strategic, and purpose-driven leader with a deep understanding of Africa’s climate and development landscape.

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About the Africa Youth Climate Fund (AYCF)

The Africa Youth Climate Fund (AYCF) is a flagship initiative of the Green Africa Youth Organization (GAYO). It was created to redistribute power, resources, and decision-making authority directly to Africa’s youth climate movements. Recognizing that young African changemakers are driving some of the continent’s most innovative climate solutions — yet remain significantly underfunded — the AYCF seeks to close this longstanding equity gap.

The Fund uses a participatory, youth-for-youth grantmaking model, championing:

• Entrepreneurship and innovation
• Movement building
• Climate research

AYCF works across Africa to promote ecosystems rooted in transparency, accountability, collaboration, and local ownership. The Fund also aligns with global climate finance priorities, serving as both a funding mechanism and a movement-building platform for sustainable, justice-centered climate action led by Africa’s youth.

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Position: Director, Africa Youth Climate Fund (AYCF)

Duration:

Two (2) years, renewable based on performance.

Location:

Remote, open to applicants based in any African country.
Africans living in the diaspora are also welcome to apply.

Start Date:

January 2026

Compensation:

USD $48,000 annually, based on experience, qualifications, and role responsibilities.

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Role Overview

The AYCF Director will be the founding leader responsible for the development, sustainability, and long-term impact of the Fund. This role requires a visionary, relationship-focused, and entrepreneurial leader capable of building institutions, managing partnerships, and shaping transformative systems.

The Director will represent AYCF in global and regional spaces, while strengthening its foundations within African youth movements. The role spans strategic leadership, governance, fundraising, grantmaking oversight, and team development.

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Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership & Fund Establishment (25%)

• Lead design and implementation of AYCF’s vision, strategy, and operational model.
• Develop governance structures, accountability systems, and inclusive leadership frameworks.
• Establish annual priorities and multi-year strategic plans across fundraising, grantmaking, and capacity-building.
• Serve as the primary link between GAYO Secretariat, the AYCF Advisory Circle, and external partners.

2. Fundraising, Partnerships & Philanthropy (30%)

• Design and execute the Fund’s fundraising and partnership strategy.
• Mobilize core, flexible, and long-term funding resources.
• Build relationships with climate and development partners, philanthropic foundations, and high-net-worth donors.
• Develop investment cases, donor briefs, and co-funding opportunities.
• Represent AYCF in global and regional platforms to increase visibility and influence.
• Work closely with GAYO leadership to align fundraising and reporting systems.

3. Program & Grantmaking Oversight (15%)

• Provide leadership for the design and implementation of participatory grantmaking windows.
• Establish transparent, efficient grantmaking systems with appropriate due diligence tools.
• Develop impact metrics, accountability systems, and participatory feedback processes.
• Oversee pilot funding rounds and refine systems based on learning.

4. Governance & Institutional Strengthening (10%)

• Coordinate governance processes and Advisory Circle engagement.
• Lead governance reviews and onboarding of new members.
• Ensure compliance with GAYO governance and risk standards.
• Embed youth representation and equity across decision-making structures.

5. Team Building & Operations (10%)

• Provide operational leadership to ensure effective execution of AYCF programs and systems.
• Strengthen internal capacity and cultivate a values-driven, collaborative team culture.

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Eligibility Criteria

Based on the information provided, eligibility includes:

Who Can Apply

• African nationals residing in any African country.
• Africans living in the diaspora are also welcome to apply.

Ideal Candidate Profile

Applicants should be:

• Strategic, purpose-driven leaders.
• Deeply knowledgeable about Africa’s climate and development ecosystem.
• Passionate about climate justice, youth-led philanthropy, and equity.
• Ready to co-create and lead a new movement in youth climate finance.

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How to Apply & Application Process

Applicants must complete the formal application process outlined by GAYO and AYCF.
Important notes include:

• Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
• Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
• If an applicant does not receive feedback one week after applying, it means they were not selected for this round.
• Applicants should regularly check GAYO’s website and social media channels for future opportunities.

Inquiries:

Email: jambo@aycf.org
(Do not send applications via email.)

Application Portal: Link here

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Important Dates

• Application Deadline: December 18, 2025 at 10:00 P.M. GMT
• Start Date: January 2026

Late applications will not be accepted under any circumstance.

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Equal Opportunity Statement

AYCF and GAYO are committed to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. The organizations strongly encourage applications from:

• African women
• Young leaders
• Persons with disabilities
• Indigenous peoples
• Members of marginalized communities

All applicants will be assessed solely on their qualifications and competencies.

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A Historic Leadership Role for Africa’s Climate Future

The Director of the Africa Youth Climate Fund (AYCF) is more than a job — it is an opportunity to shape the future of climate finance across the continent. Through strategic leadership, participatory grant making , and collaborative movement-building, the Director will play a defining role in supporting African youth who are leading climate justice, resilience, and sustainable development movements.

More information can be found at: Greenafricayouth