The Building and Wood Workers’ International (BWI) held a Youth Leadership Training from 30 August to 3 September 2025 in Nairobi, Kenya, gathering 54 young trade unionists (including 23 females) representing 22 affiliates from 13 countries in the Africa and Middle East region. The training, carrying the theme "Building the Leadership and Organising Skills of Young Trade Unionists", reinforced BWI’s strategic commitment to empower the next generation of trade union leaders with the skills and knowledge to build strong labour movements.

The training featured a series of dynamic training sessions, including a comprehensive deliberation on the political landscape of the region, empowering the participants to become proactive in shaping their regional features. One of the highlights of the training was various presentations on the participants’ union histories, while a session on “ethical leadership” explored decision-making and personal gain when in leadership. Participants were also introduced to the success stories of young unionists who had been elected to leadership positions. Discussions focused on bridging the youth and women's leadership gap, with mentorship and digital training identified as key strategies.

An essential part of the training was the Regional Youth Committee meeting held on September 2, 2025. Under the theme “Building Strong Unions for a Sustainable Future: Uniting For Climate Justice,” thirty youth delegates, including 12 women, from 23 affiliates across 14 countries participated in the meeting. They discussed regional issues faced by the working youth, such as unemployment, skills mismatch, and a lack of representation in decision-making bodies. They emphasised the crucial need for young people to be part of a just transition that protects workers, creates green jobs, promotes reskilling, and strengthens social protection. The Regional Youth Committee called for continuous training and a mentorship program for young trade unionists, a sentiment echoed by BWI Assistant General Secretary Carlos Anonuevo, who was also present in the meeting. Bernard Adjei, General Secretary of PSWU Ghana, stressed the crucial role of youth representation in ensuring the continuity and future progress of the trade union movement.

Together, the two events reinforced the immense potential and commitment of BWI’s youth members, not only by equipping them with crucial skills in leadership and organising, but also by providing a vital platform to address challenges, advocate for climate justice, and shape a strategic vision for a resilient future.