Empowered to Care is an innovative and holistic program for youth aged 15 to 24. The project addresses the need for Kenyan youth to develop essential life skills for academic success, employment, and community engagement, thereby providing a concrete answer to the cry of the youth in Kenya. By empowering young people to become proactive community leaders, the project has made a significant impact.

Overview

Background

Young people in Kenya face numerous challenges, including limited opportunities, social exclusion, and the risk of negative behaviours. Despite being the majority of the population, they often lack role models and are perceived as a problem. The project uses peer education to empower youth, recognising their unique capacity to influence one another and create safe spaces for dialogue and growth. A needs assessment revealed gaps in mentorship and platforms for youth engagement. The project aims to address these needs by strengthening the capacity of young people to act as caregivers in their communities, inspired by values of solidarity and compassion. This approach aligns with Kenya's Competency-Based Curriculum. It contributes to several Sustainable Development Goals, including No Poverty, Gender Equality, Reduced Inequalities, Sustainable Communities, Peace, Justice, and Partnerships for the Goals.

Impact Highlights

• Peer Education Training and Certification

• Strategic Collaborations for Youth Empowerment

• Annual Gathering and Peer Educator Graduation

• Youth Engagement at National and Global Platforms

• Interreligious Dialogue and Peacebuilding

• International Exchange and Solidarity

• Community Development in Mathare

• School and Parish Outreach

The project acknowledges that meaningful change happens gradually. Short-term changes focus on equipping young people with essential life skills, including assertive communication, critical thinking, and the ability to make healthier choices, as well as increased engagement and peer consultation, and greater emotional self-regulation.

These immediate results serve as stepping stones towards more sustainable impacts. The long-term changes envision a generation of empowered youth who grow into active citizens and community leaders, capable of addressing challenges such as deviant behaviours, health risks, and lack of social cohesion. This forward-looking approach ensures that the project not only benefits current participants but also lays the foundation for continuous community transformation.

Objectives

Testimonials

“Empower to Care gave me the confidence to start my tailoring business. Today, I can support my family and train other young mothers in my village.”
- Beneficiary, Empower to Care Project, Kenya

“Working with Focolare taught me that unity isn’t just an idea; it’s something we build every day through small acts of love and collaboration.”

Volunteer, Focolare Community, South Sudan