Claiming Your Seat at the Table & Reclaiming Democracy | YDN podcast Ep. 5

Welcome to the fifth episode of the Youth Democracy Network podcast series, where we expose the behind-the-scenes reality of being a young leader. We pull back the curtain on grassroots campaigning, overcoming age stereotypes in political spheres, and why young leaders shouldn't wait for permission or an invitation to take leadership—they must claim their seat at the table. Joined by Mwila Bwanga, a youth and governance expert and aspiring Member of Parliament from Zambia, we explore how to reshape the narrative of African politics, why democracy must be redefined through a human-centered lens rather than legal jargon, and how data-driven advocacy bridges the gap with policy makers. Join TWIN to find a mentor at https://twin-mentorship.com/en Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction & Guest Welcome from Nairobi 01:30 - Reshaping the face of African politics 04:00 - Childhood journeys: Rapper, actor, cricketer, to public servant 06:05 - Early leadership: Serving as school head 08:20 - Claiming a seat at the table: Strategic positioning 11:07 - Representing youth at the Community of Democracies 13:36 - Engaging policy makers: Data over emotion 16:23 - Sponsor Break: Twin Mentorship 17:06 - Overcoming youth stereotypes & modern campaign strategies 19:35 - What's at stake in Zambia's 2026 elections: Unity & development 22:56 - Why young people must defend and reclaim democracy 28:00 - Redefining democracy through a human-centered lens 31:40 - A 10-year vision for Zambia 33:08 - Essential skills for young politicians: Emotional intelligence & communication 37:35 - Finding your tribe & handling opposition 38:32 - Lightning Round!