Mbua Peter Jr. is a dynamic young lawyer, international law expert, and committed youth leader engaged and passionate about advancing justice, civic engagement, and ethical leadership in Cameroon and beyond. Trained in law with a strong focus on international, he has established himself as an emerging voice in the intersection of law, governance, and youth empowerment.

In recognition of his leadership, Mbua currently serves as a Youth Parliamentarian at the 2nd Congress of the Youth Parliament of Cameroon’s National Assembly. He believes that the voices of young citizens are indispensable in shaping democratic governance and sustainable development.

To complement his legal and political engagements, Mbua is actively involved in initiatives that promote civic education, social responsibility, and youth participation in governance. He combines his professional expertise with a passion for mentorship, encouraging young people to embrace leadership roles and contribute positively to their communities.

As both a legal practitioner and a youth advocate, Mbua Peter Jr. embodies the ideals of integrity, service, and transformative leadership. His work continues to inspire a new generation of Cameroonian youth to rise above apathy, engage in nation-building, and position themselves as catalysts for ethical change.

As a young lawyer and international law expert, what motivated you to focus your career on the intersection of law, governance, and youth empowerment?

My motivation is rooted on the fact that the law affects every part of our lives, but very often, young people don’t feel its benefits. In my experience growing up as a Cameroonian, I have seen how decisions in different areas including governance, accountability, etc, directly hurt young people. Some of these decisions (often taken hundreds of kilometers away) give room for limited opportunities and unemployment. These, motivated me to use the law as a tool for change.

Youth empowerment became another major concern because we make up the majority of the population in Cameroon and across Africa. If young people are marginalized or excluded, the country cannot move forward. My focus on this intersection is making sure that our generation actively participates in building the nation.

In your role as a Youth Parliamentarian at the National Assembly, how do you ensure that the voices of young citizens are effectively represented in policymaking?

In my opinion, when we talk about representation, we mean consultation. Before I engage into any debate or policy discussion, I always make it a point to hear directly from young people. I listen through forum and group discussions, and at times organize sittings with young entrepreneurs or activists to hear what challenges they face. I take advantage of our digital presence by use of digital platforms because that’s where their voices are loudest.

When I engage with policy makers, I don’t speak only from my own perspective. I carry with me the concerns and aspirations of those young people. That’s how way I know I am representing them symbolically and actually amplifying voices where it matters most.

You are deeply engaged in civic education and youth participation initiatives. Can you share a specific project or experience where your work created a tangible impact on the community?

On the field, I hve worked on some projects but one project that left a real mark on me was a Cybersecurity campaign/ conference. Collaborating with experts, we explained to young people the basics and importance of creating impact through digital skills. The cyberspace is increasingly becoming a tool for global change and if young people can step in to make positive use thereof, then we can be sure to drive change within our communities.

The impact of this project was huge and a tangible proof for me that when young people understand the system, they stop being passive observers and become active participants in change.

Ethical leadership is a recurring theme in your advocacy. What do you believe are the most pressing ethical challenges facing young leaders in Cameroon today?

I am confident to say that, one of the biggest challenges young leaders face today is the temptation to compromise values for quick gains. Our environment sometimes rewards shortcuts more than integrity, and that can be challenging and discouraging. Young people at times are pressured to conform to a system that may not always encourage truth-telling or bold reforms.

But I believe our generation has a responsibility to stand firm, to choose transparency, fairness, and most importantly to choose service even when it costs us something personally. If young leaders can resist those temptations, we can certainly build a culture where leadership is respected because it is ethical.

Many young people often feel apathetic toward governance and politics. How do you mentor and inspire them to embrace leadership roles and engage in nation-building?

It has always been part of my discussion, telling young people that, they may not care about politics, but politics cares about them. Decisions made in parliament or by our local authorities will determine your education, your job prospects, even the price of basic goods. So you can’t afford to sit on the sidelines.

My ideology and strategy is to encourage them to start small. Leadership must not always be seen to begin only in Yaoundé or at the national level. It starts with running a small group, organizing a community project, or leading a small association. From these small steps confidence, credibility, and a sense of responsibility are built. I always endeavor to share my story and experiences. Once they see that change is possible, it inspires them to engage.

As both a legal practitioner and a youth advocate, how do you balance professional obligations with your civic and leadership commitments?

To blend and balance my legal practice with advocacy is not always easy, but I believe both roles complement each other. Legal practice gives me credibility and broaden my understanding of justice. At the same time, my advocacy work inspires and reminds me that the law should serve people and not just institutions.

It all boils down to discipline and purpose. I try as much as possible to structure my time and be impactful in both areas.

Looking ahead, what is your vision for the role of young leaders in shaping justice, democracy, and sustainable development in Cameroon and Africa at large?

My vision is simple, I see young leaders as the ones who will finally close the gap between potential and purpose in Africa. We’ve heard for decades that Africa has potential. But potential is not enough when it is not translated into real purpose or progress. I believe we as young people or leaders can make that happen through innovation, discipline, and most importantly, integrity.

Across Africa, we need justice systems that are accessible and fair, democratic institutions that are accountable, and development strategies that put people at the center. If young people can approach or see leadership as a responsibility and not a privilege, I strongly believe we can rewrite the African Story in our generation.

Finally, what advice do you have for young Cameroonians or any young lawyer in Africa who aspire to make meaningful contributions in law, governance, and leadership?

My advice is simple: lead with integrity, never stop learning, and always serve others. As young people, don’t give in to frustration or let apathy silence you. Get engaged in governance and leadership within your communities. Finally, remind yourself at all time, every little step or small action counts. Be intentional about leaving a mark that will last beyond your generation.