Celebrating
Years of EMpower
This year, EMpower proudly celebrates 25 years—a quarter of a century of partnering with local organisations in emerging market countries and other change-makers to enable marginalised young people to transform their lives and communities.
Explore our major milestones over the 25 years and learn more about our unique funding model.
Committed to centring young people in our work, most of the photos on our website are by and of young people.
The Latest from EMpower
Our 2024 Annual Report Is Out!
EMpower’s latest Annual Report, Driving Change, Shaping the Future, captures a year of bold action, powerful youth leadership, and strengthened community partnerships. From young people shaping strategy to dynamic cross-regional collaboration, see how we invest in youth and the ecosystems that uplift them.
Read the reportHappening Today: How Asian Philanthropy Is Reshaping Global Giving
What makes philanthropy in Asia distinct, and why is the world paying attention? On June 26, EMpower and the Marshall Institute at the London School of Economics are co-hosting a conversation that dives deep into Asia's dynamic and evolving philanthropic landscape. The session will explore how giving in the region is being redefined by local values, bold leadership, and a deep commitment to community.
Register NowAleem Jivraj on Why Asian Philanthropy Must Lead a New Model of Giving
In his latest blog for AVPN, EMpower Hong Kong Board Co-Chair Aleem Jivraj makes a powerful case for a new paradigm of giving—one led by Asia, rooted in local leadership, and built on bold collaboration. As global aid declines, he argues that Asian philanthropy must step up, scale up, and shape the future of impact.
Read the blogFighting the Odds: Backing South Africa’s Youth
In our latest blog, Anusha Naicker, EMpower’s Regional Programme Director for Africa, reflects on what it really takes to support young people in South Africa, especially those boxed in by structural inequality. Published on South Africa’s Youth Day, the piece explores the barriers youth face, the resilience they demonstrate, and how organisations like EMpower can help unlock their potential through sustained, community-based support.
Read the blogHenna Hemnani for Indiaspora: Global Citizens, Local Change
In a blog for Indiaspora, EMpower’s Development Director for Asia, Henna Hemnani, reflects on her journey from Nigeria to global development—bridging finance, philanthropy, and purpose. She shares how her identity as part of the Indian diaspora fuels her commitment to empowering young people and building resilient ecosystems across emerging markets.
Read the blogEMpower Impact to Date
Since 2000, we have worked alongside local organisations and young people to advance innovative programming and best practices to enable youth to live their full potential.
1,609
Grants Made
$58.4 Million
Awarded
1 Million
Youth Directly Impacted
3 Million
Lives Touched
Our Areas of Focus
Publications
Learning Together
Our Adolescent Girls Learning Communities in Mumbai and Delhi—safe spaces where girls can come together and be in the driver’s seat—recently celebrated their 10th anniversary. This toolkit features the voices and expertise of these girls and includes practical and actionable guidance for individuals and organisations planning girl-centred programmes. It includes fresh ideas on how to create and sustain programmes that enable girls to lead, in their own lives and in their communities.
Connect with EMpower
Stay up-to-date on the latest EMpower news, highlights from our grantee partners, upcoming events, and more.
Make a Difference with EMpower
Our Board Directors and the Leadership Council underwrite all of our Management, General and Fundraising expenses, so 100% of your donation goes directly to empowering marginalised young people.
