This article was written by Nellie Nyirenda
StreetNet International has successfully hosted an international youth workshop in Benin, bringing together 20 young representatives from across Africa to strengthen participation in the informal economy.
Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders
Held from 23rd to 26th March under the theme “Building Strong and Inclusive Trade Unionism for Young Informal Economy Workers,” the workshop aimed to empower young people and promote their inclusion in leadership structures, including advocating for a youth committee within the StreetNet Executive in Africa.
The workshop was officially opened by the international council member Anastasie Chodaton, who emphasized the importance of youth involvement in shaping the future of informal trade unionism.
“Young people are not just the future of the informal economy, they are the present. It is important that we organise, learn from one another, and take an active role in building inclusive and strong unions,” she said.
Fostering Unity Through Collaboration
The workshop opened with interactive sessions focused on teamwork and collaboration. Participants engaged in group activities designed to test their ability to work together despite differences in culture, background, and experience. The exercise highlighted both the challenges and strengths of diversity, reinforcing the importance of unity in trade unionism.
Expert Insights on Activism and Human Rights
The speakers emphasized essential principles for young leaders, such as the spirit of unionism, continuous learning, and the importance of peaceful engagement when advocating for workers’ rights.
Reforming Policy and Identifying Sector Challenges
Participants further engaged in reviewing the StreetNet International Constitution, where they analyzed its content, identified gaps, and proposed recommendations to improve youth inclusion and representation within the organization.
On the second day, discussions shifted to the specific hurdles faced by informal workers across the continent. Despite varying national contexts, participants identified six common issues: Illiteracy, Harassment, Lack of social protection, Multiple taxation, Limited knowledge of workers’ rights and Lack of funding.
Mastering Communication and Advocacy
The third day of the workshop centered on communication skills. Participants learned the importance of understanding their audience, crafting clear messages, building personal and organizational brands, and speaking confidently in public.
Alpha Bah, a participant from Sierra Leone, shared how impactful the experience had been:
“This workshop has opened my eyes to the common challenges we face as young informal workers across Africa. It has also given me the confidence and knowledge to go back and advocate for change in my community.”
Cultural Exchange and Future Outlook
The workshop concluded with reflections on the knowledge gained and the necessity of continued collaboration. Following the formal closing, participants explored local markets and historic sites in Benin, gaining practical exposure to the informal trading environment and cultural context of the host country.
This event marked a significant milestone for StreetNet International, setting the foundation for stronger youth engagement and more inclusive trade union structures across Africa’s informal economy.