Who We Are
The Youth Initiative Foundation is committed to building movements that centre the voices of those left behind. We create initiatives that bridge gaps and ensure meaningful participation of diverse young people, particularly those from marginalised communities, in shaping the future they deserve.
Our Mission
To promote equality, justice, and inclusion among young people, ensuring that all youth, especially those facing marginalisation, are seen, heard, welcomed, and empowered to belong.
Our Vision
To foster a just and inclusive society that celebrates diversity, dismantles systems of oppression, and enables all young people to reach their full potential.
Our Story
The Youth Initiative Foundation (YIF) was founded in 2022 by young activists to dismantle gatekeeping in activism spaces and centre marginalised youth leadership. We exist to build systems of care, advocacy, and empowerment across Africa.
"We exist because some young people face compounded barriers, and we exist to tear those barriers down."
Our work sits at the intersections of identity, justice, and power, addressing systemic barriers related to gender, economic status, disability, and identity.
With a Pan-African vision, we ensure that those furthest behind are placed at the centre of social transformation.
We are here as a beacon of hope to challenge the status quo, to fight for equality, and to reimagine democracy through a feminist lens. Our work is bold, unapologetic, and rooted in the belief that real change starts when those most affected lead the way.
Our Strategic Pillars
Everything we do sits under one of three strategic pillars. Each pillar is built around a central question we are asking ourselves, and a clear objective that drives our programmes, platforms, and partnerships.
Community Resilience & Support Systems
How do we strengthen young people and marginalised communities?To strengthen the resilience, well-being, safety, agency, and connectedness of marginalised young people through inclusive, feminist, community-led support systems.
Learn moreGovernance & Systems Change
How do we change the systems around those communities?To strengthen inclusive governance, influence laws, policies, and systems, and advance accountability to protect the rights and meaningful participation of marginalised young people.
Learn moreTechnology, Innovation & Digital Rights
How do we leverage technology to advance justice, safety, and inclusion?To develop innovative, safe, and inclusive digital solutions that strengthen protection, access to information, community connection, digital rights, and equitable participation for marginalised young people.
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