How We Work

A structured, transparent approach to building programs that create lasting impact for young people across Nigeria.

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— Foundation —

Core Enablers

The execution of every JAF program depends on three foundational resources. The combination of who provides each enabler determines the program's classification.

Our Operational Model

We are devising and mastering a unique sustainable method of delivering high quality programs that hit actionable metrics.

The Constant K

Human Capital

To be able to implement mission-aligned programs, there needs to be young people benefiting from it.

The Participants

Finance

Our programs require heavy targeted investment to ensure executional access is not hindered by economic limitations.

The Investment

The Defining Principle

Our Operational Model [1] is the constant K

JAF must always provide [1]. How [2] and [3] are sourced determines the classification.

Internal Programs Division

JAF provides all three

[1] + [2] + [3]

External Programs Division

JAF + Partner

[1] + Partner provides [2] or [3] JAF covers the remaining enabler

[1] + Partner provides [2] and [3]

Without [1], an initiative is not a JAF Program. JAF may still lend support to mission-aligned work through funding, volunteers, or advisory capacity. These are recognized as support events.

In Practice

How This Looks

IPD

JAF owns all three enablers. We identify the need, recruit participants, fund execution, and deliver the program end-to-end.

Example

JAF National Essay Competition

[1] + [2] + [3]

EPD

JAF supplies the operational model, while a partner organization provides either human capital, finance, or both.

Example

Chekk BuildVerse Hackathon Series

[1] & [2] |

[3]

Example

STOMA Creative Writing Competition

[1] & [3] | BUDSA

[2]

IPD

Internal Programs Division

Full ownership of the program lifecycle

Identify & Research

Conduct community needs assessments, analyze gaps in youth development, and engage target communities to understand barriers to opportunity.

Design & Develop

Build program frameworks with curriculum, selection criteria, and impact metrics. Design for active participation with clear pathways to measurable outcomes.

Pilot & Test

Launch at appropriate scale, collect real-time feedback, monitor outcomes, and adjust program design based on data and participant experiences.

Scale & Iterate

Expand successful programs to new locations, themes, or disciplines. Track longitudinal outcomes and use findings to improve future initiatives.

Evidence-Based Iteration

The Essay Competition evolved from the Health Essay Competition (2024 & 2025) to the National Essay Competition (2026), each iteration driven by data and participant feedback.

EPD

External Programs Division

Shared enabler model with partner organizations

Partner Engagement

Organizations identify needs and JAF assesses mission alignment. Determine which enablers the partner will contribute.

Co-Design & Resource Mapping

JAF applies its operational model to design the program framework. Partner contributes participants, funding, or both to complete the enabler set.

Deliver & Measure

JAF leads all facilitation, engagement, and impact evaluation. Track outcomes and provide partners with detailed program reports.

Alumni & Renewal

Connect alumni with ongoing opportunities and partner pathways. Refine the model and offer partners renewal or expansion options.

— Quality Standards —

Across All Programs

Regardless of division, every JAF program meets these criteria.

Build Personal Agency

Participants as solution creators, not aid recipients

Demonstrate Clear Impact

Measurable outcomes in development and community benefit

Require Active Engagement

Programs demand contribution, not passive participation

Create Professional Pathways

Clear routes from participation to advanced opportunities

Foster Community Responsibility

Participants give back even as they receive support

Maintain Scalability

Design allows for expansion and replication across Nigeria

Ready to Partner or Participate?

Join us in building Nigeria's next generation of leaders.

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