27 August 2026 — The UNDP African Young Women Leaders (AfYWL) Fellowship Programme, in collaboration with the Awaji Youth Federation (AYF) of Pasona Group, hosted a virtual Leadership Series masterclass on “Storytelling, Personal Branding and Leadership.” 

The interactive session brought together 45 AfYWL fellows and 10 AYF fellows and alumni from diverse countries, cultures and professional backgrounds. Through practical exercises and discussions, participants explored how to communicate their purpose, shape credible leadership identities and cultivate professional networks across Africa, Japan and beyond. 

Opening the session, Ms. Rania Hadra, Regional Advisor at UNDP, emphasized that leadership is defined not by position or seniority, but by the ability to articulate a clear vision, build trust, mobilize people and deliver meaningful results. 

“Leadership is not position, title or level. It is having a clear vision, building trust, bringing people around the table and delivering to the communities and people who need us most,” Ms. Hadra said. 

Welcoming participants on behalf of AYF and Pasona Group, Ms. Akemi Aota, President of the Awaji Youth Federation and Executive Officer of Pasona Group Inc., underscored the importance of investing in young people and helping them translate ideas into action. 

“When I look at this group, I see more than participants in a programme. I see women who will help shape the future of Africa,” Ms. Aota said. “You share the courage to imagine what can be different and the determination to make that difference real.” 

Turning stories into leadership strategies 

Facilitated by Ms. Mimi Kalinda, Group CEO and Co-Founder of Africa Communications Media Group, the masterclass was framed around the theme “Your Story as Your Strategy.” 

Participants examined storytelling as a strategic leadership tool for building trust, managing reputations and inspiring collective action. They learned to identify the values, experiences and sense of purpose that distinguish them; structure compelling narratives; and adapt their messages to different audiences. 

A central lesson was that effective leadership communication places the audience—not the speaker—at the heart of the story. Participants were encouraged to understand their audiences’ priorities and frame their ideas around shared purpose and meaningful change. 

The session also explored personal branding as the intentional development of a professional reputation grounded in clarity, consistency and visibility. 

“Your personal brand is not what you think of yourself. It is what other people think—and, most importantly, what they say about you when you are not in the room,” Ms. Kalinda said. 

Participants reflected on what they want to be known for and how to demonstrate that value consistently through their work and communication. One AYF fellow identified her ability to build connections across countries and cultures as a defining strength she could carry throughout her career. 

A practical LinkedIn segment encouraged fellows to move beyond treating the platform as an online résumé and instead use it to share insights, demonstrate expertise, contribute to professional conversations and cultivate authentic relationships. 

The session concluded with participants exchanging LinkedIn profiles and committing to remain connected across the two fellowship communities. 

The masterclass forms part of the AfYWL Programme’s Leadership Series, which connects fellows with accomplished leaders and experts through practical learning, candid conversations and peer exchange. 

The continued collaboration among UNDP, AYF and Pasona Group reflects a shared commitment to developing emerging leaders, advancing cross-cultural learning and building networks that support the Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union’s Agenda 2063. 

About the African Young Women Leaders Fellowship Programme 

The African Young Women Leaders Fellowship Programme is a joint initiative of UNDP and the African Union Commission. It seeks to develop a new generation of African women leaders through practical professional experience, leadership development, mentorship and opportunities to contribute to sustainable development across Africa and beyond. 

For more information, visit www.undp.org/africa/AfYWL. 

About the Awaji Youth Federation 

The Awaji Youth Federation is an international community of young professionals based on Awaji Island, Japan. Supported by Pasona Group, the fellowship brings together globally minded young people to contribute to regional revitalization, innovation, entrepreneurship and community development. It promotes cross-cultural collaboration, professional growth and the development of solutions with both local and global impact. 

For more information, visit awaji-youth-federation.com. 

About UNDP 

UNDP is the leading United Nations organization working to end the injustice of poverty, inequality and climate change. Working with a broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries and territories, UNDP helps nations build integrated, lasting solutions for people and the planet. 

Learn more at undp.org or follow @UNDP and @UNDPAfrica. 

About Pasona Group Inc. 

Pasona Group is a Japanese multinational corporation specializing in human resource services. The company supports workforce development, inclusive employment and initiatives that address social challenges. On Awaji Island, Pasona Group has undertaken a range of activities promoting regional revitalization, innovation, arts and culture, wellness and the development of global talent.