By 2050, Africa will account for one quarter of the global labour force and over 40% by 2100. Besides being largely invisible in the digital world, they are confronting realities from limited energy access and climate change shocks to volatile market trends demanding constant reinvention and career pivots, all within the context of fragile global governance systems and looming pandemic threats. Even well-intentioned development efforts often fail to capture these realities, rendering many of their experiences invalid in global statistics and conversations.

The Ascent of The Millions reframes this moment by centering their narratives to guide global policy and philanthropic action. Recognizing that these millions hold the keys to a resilient future, we track their journeys, and amplify their lived experiences to inform the design of systems that adapt to existential challenges, and invest in cultivating their skills and leadership to fully realize their potential in the global changing economy.