How We Do It
Meaningful Youth Engagement
“Young people want to know that their voices are being heard and that they’re not being prescribed information or decisions that they do not agree with.”
– A young person from South Africa
EMpower champions young people’s leadership. We believe real change happens when young people, especially those from marginalised communities, actively shape decisions that affect their lives.
For over 15 years, EMpower has prioritised the voice, choice and wisdom of young people in everything that we do. This includes, supporting, incubating, and facilitating initiatives led by young people, including research, fellowships, and advisory councils, elevating their voices and empowering them to drive solutions and build a better future on their own terms.
Empowering and Partnering with Young People Across Regions
The Learning Community
In Mumbai
Since 2012, EMpower has supported the empowerment of adolescent girls in Mumbai through the Learning Community (LC), a girl-led programme that builds leadership, agency, among adolescent girls. Coordinated by our local partner Vacha Trust and strengthened by EMpower through funding, thought partnership and capacity-building, the Mumbai LC has empowered over 800 girls as leaders and mobilised 80,000+ community members and 200,000+ peers.
In Delhi
EMpower launched a second LC in 2017, this time in Delhi. Coordinated by Swechha – We for Change and then YP Foundation, the Delhi LC helps to strengthen girls' leadership while building capacity in participating organisations to foster girl-led interventions.
In Rajasthan
In 2022, a third LC was launched in Rajasthan, focusing on amplifying girls’ voices to create change. Anchored by Jan Sahas, these efforts have improved school and community infrastructure and girls’ leadership.
South Africa Mental Health Consultations
In South Africa, EMpower engaged young women and girls to co-create mental health strategies, enhancing support systems. This collaborative work led to a three-day learning journey in 2022, further solidifying mental health approaches based on direct input from young people.
Our 15+ years of experience have shown that young leaders possess the insight and capability to drive lasting change. We continue to support their agency and leadership, advocating for collaborative, impactful, and sustainable practices
Check out our additional resources for meaningful youth engagement:
