About Us
Youth Activists Initiative Organization (YAIO) is a non-profit making organization, which was formed in 2003 as a movement for youth activists. YAIO got registered under the Trustees Incorporated Act, Cap, 5:03 in 2013. The organization is also registered with the Department of youth. Since its establishment, the organization has been implementing different community development projects aimed at empowering young people with information and skills on HIV/AIDS and Sexual Reproductive Health (SRH), Human rights, Education, Career Guidance and conflict management issues.
Why Us!
Target group & catchment area: Our key target group are young people between 10-25 years old. Next to this key target group, we also take into account young people that are affected by the issues on which we’re working - for example a person of 35 facing a lack of knowledge on HIV/Aids will not be excluded from the sessions. We adapt our approach to the needs of the local community, working hand-in-hand with local stakeholder.
Beneficiaries first: We put the interest of our beneficiaries ahead of our own.
Accountability: We are accountable for the impact generated.
Independence: We serve the needs of our beneficiaries without interference.
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Testimonial
At Mbayani 1 Primary School, Cynthia Lifonso's life changed remarkably with the Tikambirane Club's introduction. Once involved in premarital relationships, disobedient to her parents, and frequently absent from classes, Cynthia's future seemed bleak. The Tikambirane Club, which educates young people about risky behaviors and promotes healthy lifestyles, opened a new chapter for Cynthia. Through discussions, educational sessions, and peer support, she realized the consequences of her actions.
Kado was once known for his reckless behavior among his peers. At 18, he was infamous for sleeping with different girls, driven by peer pressure and a lack of direction. Kado's life changed when he met Gift Thomas, a dedicated case manager who saw his potential. Through guidance and mentorship, Gift helped Kado understand the harmful impact of his actions. Gift introduced Kado to Youth Activists Initiative Organisation (YAIO), which invited him to leadership training programs. These programs nurtured leadership skills, personal growth, and responsibility
Sipiwe, a young man from the area of Village Headman Anderson in Machinjiri, Blantyre district, had a troubled past. He was involved with gangs from Standard 1 to 8, and his life revolved around weed, alcohol abuse, and risky behavior. Although Sipiwe didn’t smoke weed or consume alcohol, he was engaged in child-sex activities. However, one day, he had an awakening: he realized that the path he was on would only lead to disease or trouble with the law.
Gloria Masambuka, a social worker in Machinjiri, has transformed her professional capabilities thanks to training from the Youth Activists Initiative Organisation (YAIO). Her story highlights YAIO's significant impact on individuals and communities. Before YAIO, Gloria struggled with tasks like advocacy, case management, and leadership. YAIO's training equipped her with essential skills to handle these challenges confidently.