Every year, young people step into moments that shape how they will lead, collaborate and imagine the future. For the delegates of ALA Model African Union (ALAMAU) 2026, that moment arrives in March. Hosted by ALA in Johannesburg from 18 to 22 March 2026, the conference brings together high school students from around the world for one of the most immersive leadership and diplomacy experiences on the continent.
The theme for 2026 is bold: Actualizing the African Renaissance through Strategic Unity in a Shifting Global Order. It invites young people to think deeply about Africa's future and to explore what real unity and strategic cooperation could look like in a changing world.
What is ALAMAU?
ALAMAU is not a traditional conference. It is a live simulation of the African Union where students take on the roles of ministers, diplomats, civil society leaders and journalists. Delegates engage in debates, negotiate agreements and draft resolutions in response to real continental issues. They do this across 12 committees as well as the Peace and Security Council, the African Court on Human and Peoples Rights, ECOSOCC and the Press Corps.
It is a hands-on environment in which students practice leadership, critical thinking, public speaking, problem solving and teamwork.
Since its founding, ALAMAU has welcomed more than 1,600 delegates from over 70 nationalities, representing more than 80 schools and organisations. This mix of cultures, experiences and points of view is one of the conference's greatest strengths. Students do not simply learn from the curriculum. They learn from one another and build friendships that stretch across borders and identities.
Why the 2026 Theme Matters
The idea of an African Renaissance has long been associated with renewal, innovation and the reclaiming of Africa's full potential. The 2026 theme asks students to go a step further. It challenges them to explore what it would take to turn this idea into real systems and policies that support unity and long-term progress.
With global politics shifting and Africa's influence rising, the conversation is timely. ALAMAU invites young people to think not only about what Africa needs but about how collaboration across the continent can unlock solutions that benefit the world.
Who Should Apply
ALAMAU is ideal for high school students who are curious about leadership, debate, policy or global affairs, and for schools that want to offer their learners a meaningful international experience. It is also a powerful opportunity for students outside Africa who want a more accurate and nuanced understanding of the continent. You do not need prior experience to take part. You only need curiosity and a willingness to learn.
This is a space where emerging leaders learn to listen, to compromise and to build ideas together. It is an opportunity to grow and to discover what it means to lead with purpose.
Applications for ALAMAU 2026 are now open. If you are a student who wants to broaden your world or a school that believes in preparing young people for global leadership, this is the moment to apply.
Join a community of thinkers, debaters, innovators and problem solvers. Step into the shoes of African leaders and experience the power of collaboration in real time.
Visit the ALAMAU 2026 page of the ALA site here to learn more and begin your application.
