OFC Next Generation

The OFC Next Generation programme, launched in 2023, gathers and empowers young people around our mission to create more sustainable and equitable cities that are also nurturing, exciting, vibrant, and loved.

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How does it work?

Any young person under age 35 is welcome to join irrespective of their studies, experience, or background. The unifying factor is their commitment to serve their communities in their own unique way and their desire to solve local problems using their skills and passions; be it community engagement, design, research, advocacy, or something else that impacts the urban landscape.

Apply online here

The OFC Next Generation community includes:

• a number of social and networking events and activities to connect and support the growth of community members
• access to thought leaders, industry leaders and inspirational figures through mentorship events
• exposure to current and future projects of Our Future Cities
• opportunities to attend or speak at conferences and events
• micro-grants to active members of the community to support their projects or initiatives

While in-person events will initially be focussed on Cape Town, South Africa, opportunities will arise in other cities in 2024.

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Who is it for?

• You are between 18 and 35 years old in any city or country
• You have a strong interest cities, urbanism and the built environment (no academic or professional background is required)
• You are interested in attending virtual and in-person events and being a part of the WhatsApp community
• You are proficient in English
• You should be passionate about creating positive change in your community through your talents, skills, work or studies

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Past Events

• Site Visit to Bellville CBD and the Better.Bellville placemaking initiative with Alex Jongens

• Site Visit to the Tafelsig Paint.Communities placemaking and arts project

• #InConversation with Alfredo Brillembourg
• EMPOWERFEST festival e.g. films, discussions, design charette
• Site visit to Empower Shack in Khayelitsha with Benjamin Kollenberg

• #InConversation event with Michael Lewis from Heatherwick Studios
• #InConversation event with Giuliana Sibilia of OKRA
• #InConversation, event with Olamide Udoma-Ejorh Director at the Lagos Urban Development Initiative
• #InConversation event with Geci Karuri-Sebina the Coordinator of the Civic Tech Innovation Network at Wits School of Governance.
• Coffee with Olivia Labonte on public sector innovation

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How to join?

Complete this short online form here and tell us more about yourself. We will add you to the WhatsApp group to receive updates and information about events, micro-grants, site visits, and opportunities.

Have any questions? Email us at team@ourfuturecities.co