One Young World 2025: A global adventure that shaped our next generation of leaders
Our graduates return from the One Young World Summit in Germany. Discover their inspiring stories and what they learned.
At Standard Bank Group, we believe that growth is unlocked when people are given the opportunity to explore beyond boundaries, across borders, functions and skill sets. Our commitment is to create meaningful experiences that stretch perspectives, build confidence and open new pathways for personal and professional development.
This is precisely why our graduate sponsorship proudly supported a delegation of 6 dynamic graduates from across Africa to attend the One Young World Summit 2025 in Munich, Germany.
More than a global event, One Young World 2025 offered our graduates an immersive experience, one that exposed them to diverse thinkers, bold ideas and the energy of thousands of young leaders united by a shared purpose. For us, this is not just an investment in individual development; it is an investment in the future of our continent, fostering significant leadership development. By empowering emerging leaders to innovate, collaborate and lead with a global mindset, we strengthen Africa's ability to grow, compete and thrive.
Feedback from the delegates
The One Young World Summit is unlike any other gathering. It brings together young leaders from across the globe to challenge ideas, exchange solutions and commit to shaping a better world, from sustainability and climate to education, justice and health.
For our graduates, the emotional intensity of the summit stood out most. They spoke about being moved by stories of resilience, courage and innovation from people who, despite facing adversity, continue to push for positive change. They left Munich reminded that while they all come from different places, they share a single purpose: to drive change and make an impact.
Each delegate's journey was deeply personal, sparking unique insights that they are now bringing back to their careers and communities.
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Ayanda Mtolo, CIB Technology, South Africa Ayanda found inspiration in the raw initiative displayed by global change-makers, many of whom started their projects without external resources or direction. His key takeaway was a powerful call to action: anyone can begin making a difference immediately. “You know what matters to you and where you want to make an impact, and all you need to do is just go out there and start.” |
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Chiamaka Ekpebuwa, CIB, Nigeria For Chiamaka, One Young World 2025 was a strategic moment for her professional growth; a launchpad for new ideas and future collaborations. Representing Standard Bank Group on a global stage deepened her commitment to driving change back home. "I intend to use the opportunity to drive change in Nigeria, Africa and beyond. I’m truly grateful to Standard Bank Group for giving me this opportunity." |
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Elisha Oreunomhe, Technology, Nigeria Elisha's perspective was sharpened by the scale of global problems, realising that the solution lies in adopting a focused, problem-solving mindset. Rather than being overwhelmed by a problem's size, the key is understanding that large, complex issues are solved by starting with what is within one’s immediate capacity. “Be part of the solution, not the problem. I think having a mindset like that really is the principle and key to solving much larger, complex problems as well.” |
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Kamvelihle Madikizela, PPB Behavioural Economics, South Africa Kamvelihle's highlight was the opportunity to network with a diverse group of thinkers. The constant collaboration demonstrated how diverse intellectual thinking can be integrated and applied to solve challenges effectively, enriching his approach to behavioural economics. "It really is true that you can learn so much from someone who has a different perspective to you because there’s just so many different ways we can integrate and collaborate our intellectual thinking." |
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Osamudiame Igbinoba, Technology, Nigeria Osamudiame’s experience was deeply emotional and inspiring, reinforcing the profound human drive behind global impact. He witnessed individuals dedicating significant time and resources, sometimes months out of their year, to simply give back to people. This global demonstration of selflessness left a lasting impression. “It is beautiful to hear that there’s a drive in all of them to make a difference in the world. What a beautiful time it was.” |
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Tinashe Chivhande, CIB, Zimbabwe Tinashe gained a significant lesson in courage and advocacy and developed a newfound appreciation for the vibrant culture and environment of Germany. The summit empowered him to challenge the status quo and overcome self-doubt when confronting injustice or poor practice. “Stop shrinking away from the things that feel uncomfortable. If something doesn’t look right or doesn’t feel right, I don’t need to stay silent. I can speak up about it.” |
Their journey, our future
The stories of Ayanda, Chiamaka, Elisha, Keachamvelihle, Osamudiame and Tinashe are a powerful testament to what can happen when young African leaders are given the space for leadership development, to learn, grow and explore the world.
They returned from Munich not only with new skills and connections but with renewed purpose, broadened horizons and an unshakeable belief in their ability to create change. For each of them, One Young World 2025 was more than a summit: it was an awakening.
We are proud to support their journeys and inspired by the leaders they are becoming. Their growth today is shaping the Africa of tomorrow, and we look forward to the impact they will continue to drive across the continent and beyond.