Empowering young people

Y Care International has worked with the Colombian Federation of YMCAs/YWCAs since 1989, focusing on preventive work with street children and young people, youth leadership, civic education and peace promotion.

This project was developed in response to the escalating civil conflict, the perpetuation of a culture of violence and the exclusion of young people from participating in civil society. Highly limited youth participation in local and national decision making processes has led to marginalisation and the increased vulnerability of young people to join violent groups, such as juvenile gangs, local militias and the illegal armed forces.

How we are helping
Through this project, 1,200 marginalised young people and youth-led civil society groups in 6 regions are empowered to influence decision-makers at a local, municipal and national level. In addition, the project promotes cultural heritage and conflict resolution through community performances and cultural events.

In the initial project phase, curricula in civic education and conflict resolution were developed and have now been incorporated into local educational plans. Young people are trained to carry out awareness-raising activities on the needs of the most vulnerable youth and children, including victims of conflict. Youth-led advocacy and performance art groups meet regularly with municipal representatives and community members to facilitate conflict transformation. Additionally, the project creates opportunities for young leaders to actively participate in local decision-making in peace promotion and the implementation of the Youth Law.

What we have achieved
• Over 140 youth-led advocacy and art groups have been established and are cooperating with educational and policy-making institutions
• Advocacy, peace promoting and art activities of local YMCAs are contributing positively to the community's changing perception about marginalised and disadvantaged young people
• Over 20 young leaders participated in the development of youth-related government policies (child rights, sexual exploitation) at local and district levels
• Regional and national youth-led peace promotion networks have been established, incorporating young leaders from all project sites including those with disabilities.