LCC 5th Anniversary: Celebrating Youth Diplomacy in Action

The LCC 5th Anniversary marks more than a milestone it celebrates a youth diplomacy movement that reshaped leadership in Ethiopia. Leadership Conference and Competition (LCC) first launched in 2021, it was more than just a bold experiment in civic education, it was a movement. Born out of Safe Light Initiative’s commitment to youth empowerment, LCC offered Ethiopian students a platform to simulate diplomacy, debate global issues, and discover the leader within. Five years later, it stands as the country’s largest Model UN program, shaping a new generation of thinkers, change-makers, and advocates for peace.

LCC2021 – The Foundational Spark

The inaugural edition of LCC 2021 was themed Youth Leadership and Civic Engagement, bringing together university students from Addis Ababa to participate in Ethiopia’s first Model UN-style simulation. Delegates engaged in SDG-focused debates, honed their public speaking, and explored international diplomacy through simulated UN committees such as ECOSOC and UNGA. The conference featured inspiring contributions from distinguished speakers, including Ambassador Sileshi Sals Umer, Ambassador Al Busyra Basnur, Dr. Wodajeneh Meharene, and Mekdes Gebrewold, whose insights on civic responsibility, regional cooperation, and leadership deeply resonated with the participants and ignited the passion of emerging youth diplomats.

LCC2022 – Scaling Up

LCC 2022 built on a strong foundation. It embraced the theme Global Peacebuilding and Partnership for the Goals and aimed to strengthen regional dialogue. Moreover, it emphasized youth leadership across Africa. The program was elevated by powerful contributions. In addition, from a diverse lineup of speakers—including Ambassador Sileshi Sals Umer, H.E. Ambassador Dina Mufti, H.E. Dr. Ergoge Tesfaye, H.E. Dr. Lawalley Cole, Ambassador Mihret Hiruy, and H.E. Ambassador Henk Jan Baker whose insights inspired delegates. Moreover, to reimagine diplomacy as a tool for peace, inclusion, and intergenerational partnership across Africa.

LCC2023 – Diplomacy Meets Education

Under the theme Creating Sustainable, Inclusive, and Equal Quality Education for All, the 2023 LCC edition marked a turning point in reach and depth. Youth from regions beyond Addis Ababa joined, transforming LCC into a truly national movement. As a result, talks on SDG4 became more engaging and impactful by guest speakers from diplomatic missions and UN agencies, including Ambassador Sileshi Sals Umer, H.E. Dr. Ergoge Tesfaye, and H.E. Ambassador Sinikka Antila, whose thought-provoking insights challenged participants to rethink the future of education in Africa. Panels led by past winners like Nathan Tadesse and Jerusalem Solomon brought personal stories to life, further affirming the value of youth-led dialogue.

LCC2024 – From Simulation to Policy Action

By 2024, LCC had matured into a polished leadership incubator. This edition focused on Leadership for Sustainable Development. It improved how delegates were selected, made committee simulations more realistic, and built partnerships with universities and civic groups. Alumni returned to mentor first-timers, and sessions leaned into actionable resolutions and policy drafting. The focus shifted from simulation to implementation.

LCC 5th Anniversary and the Road Ahead

As upcoming LCC marks its fifth anniversary, its legacy is undeniable. Thousands of youths have passed through its sessions, finding their voices and discovering their purpose. The upcoming 2025 edition will build upon years of learning, passion, and excellence, pushing boundaries with newer formats, more inclusive outreach, and bolder diplomatic themes. It’s a movement that shapes Ethiopia’s future.

In partnership with the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs of Ethiopia, LCC aligns with national efforts to promote gender equity, through its synergy with UN Women Ethiopia, the program reinforces the Women, Peace, and Security agenda. Additionally, collaboration with the Ministry of Urban and Infrastructure enhances LCC2025 on “ICT and Digital Economy for Women and Girls Empowerment.”

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