This is a regular event that takes place in different regions once a quarter for several days and unites the global team. As part of Yangoversity, we organize immersion in local business, including the opportunity to experience it firsthand, and create opportunities for experience exchange and professional development.
Watch the video to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Yangoversity!
Day 1: Starting Strong with Senegalese Energy
Day one kicked off with insightful presentations from country managers sharing their experiences across Africa. The afternoon's crisis management masterclass, led by our PR team, had everyone working through real scenarios with laptops and headphones for interactive exercises.
It was a privilege to meet colleagues from across Africa and HQ in person for the first time—an opportunity to connect, learn (many colleagues have hidden dance and vocal talents 😉), and experience Dakar's vibrant culture firsthand.
That day beautifully ended at the evening's welcome dinner at the ocean-view terrace, where live music got everyone dancing under the Dakar stars.
Day 2: Business Insights and City Quest
Day two brought the heat with a panel discussion featuring Senegal's top entrepreneurs from venture capital, financial advisory, insurance, and tech sectors. The local perspective proved invaluable as our teams grappled with the eternal question: how do global trends translate to local challenges?
Dynamic workshops and meaningful conversations, every moment strengthened the bonds that drive our mission forward.
The business simulation game that followed had everyone strategizing, sweating, and – let's be honest – getting competitive. Then teams scattered across Dakar for hands-on research, combining theoretical knowledge with street-level insights. The Dakar City Quest added an element of adventure, turning learning into exploration.
Day 3: Go to the Fields
Day 3 was dedicated to our signature "Go to the Fields" experience – an initiative where country managers and leaders step out of boardrooms and become drivers and delivery partners themselves. This hands-on approach gives our leadership team direct access to customer feedback and invaluable insights that no report or presentation could provide.
Most importantly, it was encouraging to see firsthand the strong equity of the Yango brand, with highly satisfied repeat delivery customers—a testament to the team's execution and service excellence.
The afternoon's exploration of Dakar's markets and neighborhoods gave everyone practical understanding that will directly influence future business decisions.
The 'Go to the Fields' experience was particularly impactful as we experienced our service firsthand. These moments of genuine interaction with passengers as I role played being a driver reminded me why we do what we do.
Day 4: Wrapping Up with AI and Celebration
The final day four featured Patrick Bellair, CEO of La Dictature du Beau, leading an AI masterclass that had everyone exploring LLM tools and design applications.
Yangoversity Africa 2025 was not just fun. Dakar was also rich in strategic insights over five days of workshops, simulations, and collaboration.
The celebration at Le Cabanon Dakar that evening was the perfect cap to four intense days. Samuel noted the special mention to "the night owls, discovering the city by night!! 🕺🏾🕺🏾"
Building Connections That Last
Yangoversity has evolved from a simple educational event into something much more powerful – a celebration of our global diversity, a bridge for collaboration, and proof that the best learning happens when brilliant minds come together in inspiring places.
These connections reignited in Dakar will continue to fuel our growth long after we've returned to our home markets.
Big thanks to the organizing team – Aleksandra Mamrukova, Linara Bulatova, Jenny Maunonen, Alexandra Sushcheva, Sofia Gulina and Matias Lapushin – our heroes, who ensured that learning felt effortless and networking felt natural. As Samuel perfectly captured: "The format struck the right balance, engaging, efficient, and highly collaborative... A truly valuable experience, and I look forward to the next chapter."Until the next chapter of our Yangoversity journey, the memories of Dakar's energy, wisdom, and teranga (Senegalese hospitality) will continue to inspire our teams across Africa and beyond!
