The young disruptors of Sub-Saharan Africa - RSA

The young disruptors of Sub-Saharan Africa

Public talks / Video / Online

 -  | BST British Summer Time

Online via YouTube

  • Employment
  • Enterprise
  • Skills
  • Cities
  • Social mobility
  • Youth engagement

What does it mean to be young in an ageing world?

Youth populations across Sub-Saharan African countries are growing at rapid rates compared to other countries globally. With more than 42% of the population under 14 years old, Nigeria is one of the youngest countries in the world.

This sharp population shift is ushering in a thriving culture of innovation and disrupting societal norms as more young people move to cities, challenge traditional political structures, and reap the benefits of more widespread access to technology. A growing diaspora is also altering perceptions of what it means to be Nigerian and African, both at home and on an international stage.

2021-2022 Nine Dots Prize winner, Trish Lorenz, argues that research and reportage of youth experiences has traditionally focused on the West, leaving much to be said about the challenges and opportunities faced by the young in prospering cities like Lagos and Abuja, Nigeria. Here Trish Lorenz shares unique stories and big questions that arose from her time speaking with these exciting, young entrepreneurs, artists, and activists.

 

We are aware of a recent Cambridge University interview where wording suggested that the author had invented the phrase ‘soro soke generation’. CUP has clarified that this was not her intention and the interview text has now been corrected. You can read the corrected interview here.

Related events

  • Get Connected: Reflecting on 2024

    Fellowship events

    9am-10am PST/12pm-1pm EST

    Join the RSA US community for an informal gathering where we’ll slow down, chat, and reflect on the year gone by.

  • Unlocking civic voice

    Public talks

    RSA House and Online

    Join our expert panel to hear impactful insights and experiences from community-led projects. Discover how these initiatives have empowered citizens to speak up for their communities and shape their shared future.

  • 2024 Angus Millar Lecture

    Public talks

    Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh

    In the 25th anniversary RSA Angus Millar Lecture, award-winning author Andrew O’Hagan will address “Art, Literature and Truth in the Era of Fake News, Algorithms and Artificial Intelligence”.