Twenty-one youth-led projects from three regions have been awarded funding by the Youth Empowerment Fund. These projects are being delivered by Girl Guides and Girl Scouts from WAGGGS Member Organisations and are designed to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by empowering young people to lead community-based initiatives focused on environmental sustainability and the inclusion of vulnerable youth.
Each project is youth-centred, youth-led and designed to make a measurable and strategic impact. They incorporate advocacy, local engagement and capacity building, ensuring that the voices of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts are front and centre in the design, delivery and decision-making processes.
Across the Africa, Arab and North America & Caribbean regions:
- 21 Member Organisations have received project funding
- Two WAGGGS World Centres have received project funding
- 1,213 youth are actively involved in project teams
- Over 125,000 beneficiaries will be reached, the majority of whom come from underrepresented groups
Implemented through a partnership between the European Union and the Big Six Youth Organisations under the Global Youth Mobilization (GYM) initiative, the Youth Empowerment Fund supports young people in leading projects that contribute to the sustainable development of their communities.
These projects are equipping Girl Guides and Girl Scouts with leadership skills, environmental knowledge and a platform to influence change in their communities, while raising awareness of the SDGs.
Here are some projects that are already making a difference to communities.
Empowering girls to drive sustainable development
Mpanazava Eto Madagasikara
In Madagascar, this project will empower girls and young women from vulnerable groups to lead sustainable development through education, practical skills, community action and advocacy on climate change and environmental protection. It combines training on reusable pads and solar cooking with community outreach and regional advocacy efforts, engaging girls and marginalised youth in leadership training to enhance their skills and confidence.
SDGs addressed: SDG 4: Quality Education (4), Gender Equality (5), Affordable and Clean Energy (7), Reduced Inequalities (10), Climate Action (13), Life on Land (15)
Voices and action for biodiversity and climate
Asociación de Guías de Bolivia
This initiative is empowering girls and young women, especially from rural and Indigenous communities, to become leaders in climate and biodiversity advocacy. The project creates inclusive participation spaces and will train over 500 young people in environmental issues, supporting them in launching their own local climate initiatives. By building a national network of young female activists and ensuring their voices are heard at major policy platforms like COP, this project addresses both climate justice and gender equity at the grassroots and national levels.
SDGs addressed: Quality Education (4), Gender Equality (5), Reduced Inequalities (10), Climate Action (13), Life on Land (15), Partnerships for the Goals (17)
Climate action for refugees
Uganda Girl Guides Association
In the Nakivale Refugee Settlement, Uganda Girl Guides Association is empowering refugee youth to become leaders in climate action. Through training in sustainable agriculture, reforestation, water conservation and renewable energy, young people are becoming agents of change in climate action. The project emphasises local partnerships with NGOs and local organisations to promote environmental sustainability and economic opportunity.
SDGs addressed: No Poverty (1), Quality Education (4), Clean Water and Sanitation (6), Affordable and Clean Energy (7), Decent Work and Economic Growth (8), Climate Action (13), Life on Land (15), Partnerships for the Goals (17)
Inclusive education in Abidjan
Association des Guides Catholiques de Côte d'Ivoire
In Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, Guides are building a library for children of varying abilities, equipped with braille books, audiobooks and digital tools such as screen readers and sound amplifiers. This inclusive learning space is led by trained youth and aims to ensure equitable access to education for all children. They are creating an environment that builds self-confidence and raising awareness about the importance of equity and diversity.
SDGs addressed: Good Health and Wellbeing (3), Quality Education (4), Reduced Inequalities (10), Sustainable Cities and Communities (11), Partnerships for the Goals (17)
Protecting oceans
Asociación de Guías y Scouts de Costa Rica
In Costa Rica, Guides and Scouts are engaging local communities and tourists in marine conservation through coastal clean-ups, species monitoring and awareness campaigns. They are installing coastal signage to promote environmentally friendly behaviour and organising workshops and awareness-raising campaigns on marine preservation, involving both local communities and tourists.
SDGs addressed: Sustainable Cities and Communities (11), Climate Action (13), Life Below Water (14), Partnerships for the Goals (17)
Eco-education for girl leaders
Association des Scouts et Guides de Mauritanie
In Nouadhibou, Mauritania, this project will empower school-aged girls to become environmental leaders by promoting eco-education and climate change awareness within their schools. Through partnerships with the Ministries of Education and Environment, the project will address the significant lack of female participation in environmental initiatives and equip girls with the knowledge and leadership skills needed to combat pollution and adapt to climate challenges in their communities.
SDGs addressed: Quality Education (4), Gender Equality (5), Climate Action (13), Partnerships for the Goals (17)
Behind each of these projects is the support of our Member Organisations. They empower, mentor and stand alongside these girls and young women as they take the lead and drive change. They are central to our global, values-driven Movement and at the heart of everything we do.