Youth-led UYCA drives community change

The United Youth Charity Association (UYCA) is a youth-led non-profit organisation in Namibia that is changing lives through empowerment, education and community service.

Founded in 2018 by Beatha Iileka and Rose-Mary Namupolo, the association was born out of a desire to create safe spaces where young people could feel heard, valued and inspired to grow.

Tangi-Sela Kashea, the association’s managing director, told Careers that the association’s mission is to uplift vulnerable communities and give people opportunities to lead.

“We implement community-based programmes that educate, empower and uplift underserved communities while creating safe spaces for young people to express themselves through arts, dialogue, and leadership,” she said. 

Kashea added that the organisation was founded to respond to the need for safe and supportive spaces. “We wanted to create opportunities for mentorship, service and personal growth so that young people could become compassionate, confident, and socially responsible leaders.”

Since its founding, UYCA has remained proudly youth-led and has operated successfully for more than seven years. The organisation has positively impacted numerous communities through initiatives such as girls’ empowerment programmes, health education workshops, and donation drives. 

Kashea said that one of their greatest achievements is staying true to their youth-led identity. “Remaining a youth-led NGO for over seven years while positively impacting communities is a milestone we are proud of. It shows our resilience and growth as an organisation."

She added that the first step to building a non-profit organisation is to understand the needs of the community. “Speak to the people you want to support, learn from organisations already doing similar work, and surround yourself with committed, like-minded individuals. With patience, resilience, and genuine commitment, young people can create lasting change,” she said.

Overview

UYCA undertakes awareness campaigns on issues such as gender-based violence, adolescent health, HIV prevention, mental well-being and anti-bullying. The organisation also provides humanitarian support through food, clothing and hygiene product distribution to families in need.

Its mentorship initiatives focus on guiding and supporting young people through personal development, life skills and career guidance.

The outreach programmes involve engaging directly with schools and communities through educational talks, awareness campaigns, and charitable activities.

The leadership workshops are designed to equip young people with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to become active leaders within their schools and communities.