In 2024, it’s no longer about the ‘early’ bird catches the worm, but the ‘known’ bird–making networking increasingly essential in our day to day lives. Knowing this, the Chillest World in partnership with Youth Connekt Africa, Vugana and BK Arena on Friday 8th November 2024 organized yet another ‘Chillest’ Networking event for hundreds of youths from across the globe who are currently in Kigali, Rwanda for the annual Youth Connekt Africa summit.
Held in the walkway of BK Arena’s first floor, the side event offered a dynamic opportunity for young Africans to connect directly with CEOs, Entrepreneurs, Creatives, and Innovators, learning firsthand how to navigate and succeed in today’s fast-paced job market.
The event kicked off at 5:00pm all the way to 11:55 pm and as Ines Debetes, co-founder of Vugana always puts it, “networking is important, but it needs to be accompanied with a chill vibe.” Friday’s event was not short of this.
The gathering buzzed with energy and potential, courtesy of DJ Lynduh’s bangin music, an array of refreshments, and delectables from ‘Issa’ quick barbecue and ‘Ilkutura’–some of which were on the house. These were served during the first hours of the event, giving the organizers’ chairs and tables some work to do as the vibrant youth needed to showcase ‘discipline’ while they savored their delicacies.
From 8:00 pm onwards however, everyone was on their feet–either grooving to the beats, documenting memories, but most importantly interacting with genuine connections–an assignment the youth understood. Even when the ‘big boys’ chose the terrace as a ‘hideout’, the youngsters were not deterred from reaching out, epitomising the power of networking in the modern world.
Speaking to a group of youths from Kenya, majority of whom are yet to enter the competitive job markets (at university level), they stressed that networking is a vital aspect of their future.
“It is a strategic pathway to access mentorship, secure career opportunities, and learn essential skills that go beyond the classroom,” noted Newton Kipleting.
Ikirezi Linda, a university student from Rwanda although shy in nature, admitted that when at events like this where the atmosphere is loosened, it is easy for her to create rapport with other people.
“I’m not good at approaching people for the first time. At such events however, everyone is free and happy, so they come to you first, and before you know it, your list of networks is growing.”
As for the entrepreneurs, ‘Chillest’ networking events provide the foundation of connections often leading to collaborations, a deeper understanding of industry demands and confidence to pursue innovative ideas.
The chillest Networking event was among the many side events for the youth attending this year’s Youth Connekt Summit at Kigali Convention Centre.
Launched in 2012 by the Government of Rwanda and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) as a youth empowerment initiative, Youth Connekt is a platform where young Africans can connect, learn, and access opportunities for self-improvement and entrepreneurship.
From its humble beginnings, the conference has grown into a continental initiative, influencing policies and inspiring programs across several African nations.
This year’s theme, “Jobs for Youth through Innovative Skilling” is timely as it aligns with Africa’s need for development through human capital, supporting youth in harnessing technology, gaining leadership skills and cultivating an entrepreneurial spirit.
Photos by: The Chillestworld
