Banjul, The Gambia, March 18, 2026 - In the heart of Africa, where dreams often compete with limited opportunities, a new generation of young leaders is rising, bold, skilled, and inspired. Among them is Kaddijatou, a young woman whose life took a transformative turn through the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games Learning Academy, serving as an Assistant Coordinator.
Learning Academy is a major legacy programme for the youth Olympic Games(YOG) in Senegal. The training marks a key step in building local expertise ahead of youth Olympic Games and ensuring a strong human legacy from the first Olympic sports event on African soil.
For Kaddijatou Jeng, who was selected by the Gambia National Olympic Committee (GNOC), to be a participant in the 5th cohort, with 32 participants from different countries in the African continent said it was an honour and pride to be part of the training.
A Dream Beyond Borders
Kaddijatou grew up with passion, determination, and a deep love for sport. Like many young Africans, she believed in the power of sport to change lives, but she never imagined she would one day be part of something as historic as the first Olympic event hosted on African soil. When she was selected into the Dakar 2026 Learning Academy, it was more than an opportunity, it was a moment of honor.
Being part of this programme has reinforced my motivation to be actively involved in YOG Dakar 2026. It has given me the confidence, knowledge, and mindset needed to support venue operations and enhance the overall Games experience. More importantly, it has shown me how sport can unite people, create opportunities, and leave a lasting legacy for youth in Senegal, Africa, and beyond.
A Life-Changing Opportunity
The Learning Academy is designed to train over 400 young professionals across Africa in sports management and event delivery. Through intensive training, participants gain real-world experience in planning, organizing, and delivering global sporting events.
For Kaddijatou, this was her first exposure to the inner workings of international sport. She learned about event operations, logistics, teamwork, and leadership skills that go far beyond the classroom. Each day at the Academy shaped her confidence. She was no longer just a participant, she became a future leader.
As part of the structured programme, we received 10 days of training delivered by the IOC , followed by five days of soft-skills development. Through interactive sessions and practical exercises, I gain knowledge in games planning, sports and event operations, and functional area responsibilities.
From Learning to Leading
After her training, Kaddijatou will join teams supporting the organization of the Games. Like many Academy graduates, she will became part of the workforce delivering Dakar 2026, turning theory into action.
She will stand side by side with professionals, contributing to something bigger than herself. In that moments, she will feel pride, not just personal pride, but pride in representing her country and continent.
A Legacy of Empowerment
The Dakar 2026 Learning Academy is not just about the Games, it is about legacy. It is building a generation of skilled African youth ready to lead future sporting events and development initiatives across the continent.
For Kaddijatou, the impact is lifelong. She now carries knowledge, experience, and confidence that will open doors in sports administration, youth development, and leadership.
Honor Pride Transformation.
Kaddijatou’s journey is a symbol of what is possible when opportunity meets determination. Through Dakar 2026, she has become more than a participant, she is now an ambassador of change.
Her story reflects a powerful truth:
When you invest in young people, you don’t just change lives, you build the future.
