DISCOVER • LEARN • LEAD
DLL2027 Zanzibar Conference
Beyond Borders: Youth, Innovation, Heritage & Leadership for Africa's Future
A 4-day, 3-night transformative international experience bringing together young leaders, entrepreneurs, students, educators, innovators, changemakers and professionals from Africa and beyond to discover, learn, connect, explore and lead.
22–25 JANUARY 2027 | ZANZIBAR, TANZANIA
DLL2027 AT A GLANCE
The essentials, at a glance. Keep this in mind.
CONFERENCE DATES
22–25 JANUARY 2027
4 Days • 3 Nights
PARTICIPATION PATHS
Fully Funded
Others: Partially Funded & Self-Funded
LOCATION
STONE TOWN, ZANZIBAR
Zanzibar, Tanzania
APPLICATION WINDOW
01 OCT – 31 DEC 2026
Applications close 31 December 2026
WHO CAN APPLY
16+ • NO UPPER AGE LIMIT
Open to applicants from all nationalities
APPLICATION FEE
$22 USD
Registration, application & administrative processing fee
DISCOVER • LEARN • LEAD
One experience. Four days. Zanzibar as your classroom.
DLL CONFERENCE IS BACK!
DLL2027 is where young ideas meet real-world experience. For four days, Zanzibar becomes more than a destination — it becomes a classroom, a meeting point and a source of inspiration for what comes next.
Expect meaningful conversations, practical learning, new connections, cultural exchange and experiences designed to take you beyond the conference room, classroom or office.
DISCOVER
Explore Zanzibar through its history, culture, people, landscapes, ocean and living heritage.
LEARN
Exchange ideas, gain new perspectives and learn from leaders, practitioners, educators, entrepreneurs and fellow changemakers from around the world.
LEAD
Turn conversations into ideas, collaborations and action that continue beyond Zanzibar.
THE 2027 CONVERSATION
Five interconnected conversations shaping the questions, ideas and opportunities that matter to Africa and the next global generation.
01
YOUTH & LEADERSHIP
What does meaningful leadership look like in a rapidly changing Africa and the world? Explore youth leadership, global citizenship, participation, influence and the responsibility to shape the future rather than simply inherit it.
02
AI, INNOVATION & ENTREPRENEURSHIP
From artificial intelligence to emerging businesses and creative solutions, explore how technology and entrepreneurship are transforming opportunities, careers and the way Africa solves its challenges.
03
HERITAGE & IDENTITY
Who are we, what do we carry forward and how do we tell our own stories? Explore African identity, heritage, culture, storytelling and the role of young people in preserving and reimagining what defines us.
04
CLIMATE, OCEANS & SUSTAINABLE TOURISM
From island communities to the wider African continent, explore climate resilience, ocean economies, responsible tourism and how destinations can grow while protecting the people, cultures and environments that make them unique.
05
EDUCATION, OPPORTUNITY & AFRICAN COLLABORATION
Explore the future of education, employability, cross-border collaboration and access to opportunity—and how young people can build networks and partnerships that move ideas across communities and countries.
THE ZANZIBAR EXPERIENCE | NEW SITES INCLUDED
Learn beyond the conference room. Discover the stories, landscapes, cultures and communities that make Zanzibar a living classroom
STONE TOWN HERITAGE WALK
Walk through the historic heart of Zanzibar and uncover the stories behind its architecture, markets, streets, people and centuries of cultural exchange.
KIZIMKAZI COASTAL EXPERIENCE
Journey south to Kizimkazi for a closer look at coastal life, local culture and Zanzibar's relationship with the Indian Ocean. Experience the destination beyond the usual tourist route.
JOZANI FOREST & ISLAND ECOLOGY
Step into Zanzibar's natural world and explore the island's unique ecosystems, biodiversity and conservation story—including the remarkable Zanzibar red colobus monkey.
NUNGWI & KENDWA BEACH/ROCKS
Experience Zanzibar's northern coast through its beaches, coastal communities, vibrant atmosphere and spectacular sunsets—while discovering the importance of sustainable tourism to island communities.
TRADITIONAL DHOW CRUISE EXPERIENCE
Step aboard a traditional Zanzibar dhow cruise and experience the Indian Ocean from the water. As the sun sets, connect, reflect and share stories with fellow delegates in one of the island's most memorable traditions in Nungwi and Kendwa.
WHO IS DLL2027 FOR?
DLL2027 welcomes curious minds, emerging leaders and changemakers from different backgrounds, disciplines and countries around the world. If you are ready to explore, learn, connect, lead, and contribute, there is a place for you here.
YOUNG LEADERS
Students and emerging leaders passionate about creating positive change in their communities and beyond.
ENTREPRENEURS & INNOVATORS
Founders, Co-founders, CEOs, aspiring entrepreneurs and creative problem-solvers developing ideas, businesses and solutions.
STUDENTS & GRADUATES
Undergraduate, Graduates, Postgraduate and recently graduated young people looking to expand their knowledge, networks and opportunities.
EDUCATORS & RESEARCHERS
Teachers, lecturers, researchers, professors, and education professionals exploring new ideas, partnerships and approaches to learning.
CHANGEMAKERS & PROFESSIONALS
Activists, community builders, young professionals and practitioners working to create meaningful impact in their fields.
GLOBAL CITIZENS
Participants from across Africa and beyond who want to exchange perspectives, build cross-cultural connections and collaborate across borders.
Different backgrounds | Different perspectives | One shared space to discover, learn and lead.
WHAT YOUR DLL2027 EXPERIENCE INCLUDES
From meaningful conversations to immersive experiences, DLL2027 is designed to give you more than a conference seat in a hotel or hall!
CONFERENCE ACCESS
Take part in keynote sessions, panels, workshops, interactive discussions and other DLL2027 learning experiences.
EDU-TOURISM EXPERIENCES
Discover Zanzibar through curated cultural, historical, environmental and coastal experiences designed to connect learning with place.
GLOBAL NETWORKING
Meet fellow delegates, leaders, entrepreneurs, educators and changemakers and build connections that can continue beyond the event.
CONNECTIONS BEYOND ZANZIBAR
Become part of a growing network where ideas, collaborations and opportunities can continue after the conference ends.
DELEGATE MATERIALS & CERTIFICATE
Receive official DLL2027 delegate materials and a verifiable certificate of participation, subject to the conference's participation requirements.
CULTURAL EXCHANGE
Share your culture, discover new perspectives and experience the diversity of people coming together from across Africa and beyond.
CHOOSE YOUR PARTICIPATION PATH AND REGISTER
Whether you are seeking funding support or planning to join independently, there is more than one way to experience DLL2027. Clikc the apply now button and you will be able to indicate your desired participation category while completing the application form.
FULLY FUNDED DELEGATES
Delegates receive financial support toward eligible conference and travel-related costs under the DLL2027 funding programme.
Complete the application form and participate in the selection process.
PARTIALLY FUNDED DELEGATES
Delegates will receive partial support while contributing toward the remaining costs of their participation in the conference.
Contact us at info@afrileadnetwork.org or on whatsapp at +12027024211 for availability and package details will be shared with you in this category.
SELF-FUNDED DELEGATES
For delegates who choose to cover their own travel and participation-related expenses while joining the DLL2027 programme.
Subject to application and participation requirements, including the completing of the registration fee payment.
HOW TO APPLY?
Your DLL2027 journey starts with a simple application. Tell us who you are, what you care about and what you hope to contribute to the experience.
PREPARE & APPLY
Complete the official DLL2027 application form with accurate information.
Once your application has been successfully submitted, you will receive an automatic confirmation acknowledging receipt of your application.
APPLICATION FEE & PROFILE VERIFICATION
After submitting your application, you should contact us, or you may be contacted by our office through official AfriLead channels (including our .org email or +1 Whatsapp number), regarding the application fee and any required verification. Payment of the applicable application fee validates your submitted application as complete.
REVIEW, SELECTION & OFFICIAL OUTCOME
Applications will be reviewed according to the DLL2027 selection process, with fully funded applications receiving additional consideration based on motivation, leadership potential, demonstrated impact and alignment with the conference theme, activities and goals. Selected applicants will be contacted through official AfriLead EduTourism Network channels with the next steps within one to two weeks after the official application deadline.
IMPORTANT DATES
APPLICATIONS OPEN
01 OCTOBER 2026
APPLICATION DEADLINE
31 DECEMBER 2026
NB: Applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered.
OUTCOME NOTIFICATION
01 – 08 JANUARY 2027
FIND ANSWERS TO SOME COMMON QUESTIONS (FAQ)
BEFORE CONTACTING US, please check here for answers to the most common questions about eligibility, funding, application fee payment process, participation and the Zanzibar experience below. If your still have unanswered question/s, please contact us and we’ll be happy to assist you further.
WHO CAN APPLY?
DLL2027 welcomes students, young leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, researchers, professionals, changemakers, innovators and other individuals who are interested in learning, connecting, sharing ideas and contributing to conversations about Africa’s future.
Applicants may participate through the Fully Funded, Partially Funded or Self-Funded pathway, subject to the applicable selection, application and participation requirements.
IS THERE AN AGE LIMIT?
The minimum age to apply for DLL2027 is 16 years. There is no upper age limit. Applicants of different ages and backgrounds are welcome to apply, provided they meet the applicable participation requirements.
DO I NEED IELTS OR TOEFL?
No. IELTS or TOEFL is not required to apply for DLL2027.
Applicants should, however, be able to communicate and participate effectively in the conference environment.
WHAT DOES FULLY FUNDED MEAN?
The Fully Funded pathway is for selected delegates who receive financial support covering eligible conference participation and travel-related costs under the DLL2027 funding programme.
Depending on the applicable funding arrangement, the Fully Funded package includes:
- Round-trip economy-class international airfare for eligible international delegates.
- Domestic ferry travel for eligible delegates travelling from mainland Tanzania.
- Airport transfer to the conference hotel in Stone Town.
- Local transportation within Zanzibar for official conference activities and EduTourism experiences included in the programme.
- Visa application support letters, where applicable.
- Official Invitation Letter to DLL2027 in Zanzibar.
- Accommodation at the designated conference hotel in Stone Town.
- Access to all official conference sessions and programme activities.
- Access to pitching, networking and mentorship sessions.
- Meals provided during official programme activities.
- Official local tours and EduTourism experiences included in the conference programme.
- Official Delegate Certificate of Recognition, Participation and Attendance, subject to participation requirements.
- Eligibility to become an AfriLead EduTourism Network Ambassador, representing the Network’s mission and vision within your country and community, subject to the applicable ambassador arrangements.
Please note: The exact benefits provided to each selected Fully Funded delegate are subject to the available funding, applicable travel arrangements and the official terms communicated to successful applicants.
ARE FULLY FUNDED PLACES AVAILABLE?
Yes, fully funded delegate seats are available for outstanding applicants out of the 350 anticipated delegates . Selection and consideration under full funding is also subject to application submission and payment of the manadatory registration and administrative fee.
WHAT DOES PARTIALLY FUNDED MEAN?
The Partially Funded pathway is designed for delegates who are able to contribute toward some of their participation costs while receiving subsidized access and applicable in-kind support from AfriLead EduTourism Network.
Applicants in this category should be prepared to cover their international travel costs (if internatinal delegates or domestic travel costs if local delegates), including flight tickets, and contribute toward a discounted participation package determined by the conference organisers.
To find out about the current participation package details and applicable contributions please contact the team through our contact details provided on this website.
WILL ACCOMMODATION AND MEALS BE COVERED?
This will depend on your delegate category. Fully funded and partially funded delegates will receive accommodation, meals and selected programme support as indicated on this website, while self-funded delegates will follow the package details communicated by the organizing team.
CAN I APPLY AS A SELF-FUNDED DELEGATE?
Yes. Applicants who prefer to independently finance their participation may apply through the Self-Funded pathway, subject to submission of the required application or registration form, confirmation of the applicable package payment and approval by the organising team.
The Self-Funded pathway may be suitable for applicants, professionals, institutional representatives, entrepreneurs, supporters and other participants who prefer to finance their own participation and secure their place through the applicable participation package.
Please contact us for further information and support if you prefer this pathway.
IS THERE AN APPLICATION FEE?
Yes. All applicants are required to pay a mandatory, non-refundable USD $22 application and administrative processing fee.
Why is the fee collected even from applicants seeking to be fully funded?
The application fee supports the administrative and logistical work involved in receiving, processing, verifying and managing applications throughout the DLL2027 application cycle. It also contributes to the administrative infrastructure required to coordinate the wider programme, including the processing and support associated with our delegate funding initiatives.
WHEN WILL I RECEIVE THE OUTCOME?
Applications close on 31 December 2026.
DLL2027 application outcomes will be communicated between 1 January and 8 January 2027 through official AfriLead EduTourism Network channels.
WILL ALEN SUPPORT VISA APPLICATIONS?
Selected delegates will receive an official invitation or confirmation letter to support their visa application where applicable. However, visa approval is entirely determined by the relevant Turkish immigration authorities based on each applicants profiel and cuntry of origin, therefore approval or rejection cannot be guaranteed by ALEN, although based on our mutual relationship with the authorities, we are happy to share that 99% of our delegates are always granted entry Visa’s into any hosting country where our events are usually held.
WHERE WILL THE CONFERENCE TAKE PLACE?
DLL2027 will be based at the designated conference hotel in Stone Town, Zanzibar.
However, DLL2027 is designed as an EduTourism experience rather than a conference confined to one venue. Delegates should expect regular travel to different locations and experiences across Zanzibar as part of the official programme, including cultural, historical, environmental and coastal activities featured on this website.
Delegates should therefore be prepared for local travel throughout Zanzibar depending on the activities scheduled during their participation.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER SELECTION?
Selected applicants will receive official administrative communication from the AfriLead EduTourism Network team outlining the next steps for participation.
Depending on the delegate category, this may include participation confirmation, payment or funding arrangements, travel documentation, visa support, accommodation information, programme details and other administrative requirements.
WILL I RECEIVE A CERTIFICATE?
Yes. Delegates who actively complete the official convention programme will receive a leadership certificate of participation and attendance. Special recognition will also be awarded for project or paper pitching, volunteerism, leadership, climate diplomacy simulation or outstanding delegate engagement.
CAN I APPLY FROM ANY COUNTRY?
Yes. Applications are open to all nationalities, subject to travel, visa and participation requirements.