Chido Cleo Mpemba

Chido Cleopatra Mpemba, born in July 1988, has emerged as a transformative force and influential figure in African leadership. Recognized for her outstanding contributions, Chido was named in the 5th list of 100 Most Influential African Women in 2023 by Avance Media. Currently serving as the Special Envoy for Youth at the African Union Commission (AUC), Chido has become the second African Union Youth Envoy, making history as the youngest senior official in the African Union and the youngest diplomat in the chairperson’s cabinet.

Her educational foundation was laid at Girls’ College High School. She pursued higher education at Cape Town University in South Africa, earning a degree in Labour Organisational Psychology and Human Resource Management. Furthering her academic pursuits, she enrolled in an MBA program at Midlands State University. Her commitment to leadership development took her to Dartmouth College during her Mandela Washington Fellowship in 2016, where she studied Leadership in Business.

Chido Mpemba’s career trajectory reflects a commitment to both corporate and public service. Before her pivotal role as the Youth Envoy at the African Union Commission, she served as a banker at Standard Chartered Bank. Her diverse experience also includes working for the Ministry of Youth, Sport, Arts, and Recreation in her home country, Zimbabwe. Chido’s multifaceted career showcases her ability to navigate complex environments and contribute meaningfully to youth and community development.

Chido Mpemba’s journey is marked by notable accomplishments and participation in various fellowships. Notably, she attended fellowships and served on different boards, contributing her expertise and insights to diverse fields. These experiences have enriched her perspective and equipped her with the skills necessary to drive positive change.

Chido Mpemba assumed the role of the African Union Youth Envoy on 1st November 2021, succeeding Aya Chebbi from Tunisia. Appointed by the chairperson of the African Union Commission Moussa Faki, Chido has undertaken the responsibility of championing youth development issues in Africa. Her role as the AU Youth Envoy aligns with the vision of promoting youth empowerment and addressing key challenges facing the continent’s young population.

Chido Cleopatra Mpemba’s recognition in Avance Media’s 2023 100 Most Influential African Women list attests to her exceptional leadership and impact on the African continent. As the Special Envoy for Youth at the African Union Commission, she continues to play a pivotal role in advocating for the development and empowerment of Africa’s youth. Chido’s journey from her early life in Zimbabwe to becoming a key figure at the African Union exemplifies her dedication to driving positive change and shaping the future of the continent.