Youth Engagement in Social Action Program
Youth Engagement in Social Action (YES-ACT) Program empowers Cambodian youth to influence policy, address pressing social issues, and promote democratic governance. The program encourages young people to take active roles in society, using their skills and knowledge to make meaningful contributions.
Program Objectives
The YES-ACT program aims to:
- Promote active citizenship through civil and political engagement
- Enable and support youth-led initiatives addressing specific community issues
- Link youth-led initiatives to encourage mutual learning, to inspire each other and amplify their impact on individuals, communities, and society.
- Strengthen synergy and alliance with strategic and like-minded partners advocating for policy enforcement and development advancing youth-responsive development, responsive national budget allocation, and democratic governance.
Program Approach
The program follows a practical, action-oriented and policy influencing model:
- Skills Development: Youth receive guidance and opportunities to strengthen leadership, advocacy, project cycle management, public speaking and community engagement skills.
- Youth-Led Initiatives: Participants design and implement projects addressing local community issues.
- Policy Engagement: Youth organize and participate in advocacy efforts to influence policies affecting young people.
- Collaboration & Networking: build partnerships and synergy with like-minded partners and alliances to advocate for responsive national budget allocation, public financial management and democratic governance and amplify impact.
- Reflection & Growth: Active involvement fosters character development, confidence, and physical and mental resilience.
Why This Matters
Through YES-ACT Program, youth participants will:
- Feel valued and engaged in their communities
- Develop strong leadership and resilience
- Build a sense of community, social cohesion, and integration
- Contribute to creating a critical mass of young active citizens who influence policy development and enforcement
