Youth Challenge International

– Meet Humu, YCI’s Partnership & Training Coordinator in Tamale, Ghana!

In her role, Humu collaborates with the YCI team, partner organizations and Canadian volunteers to build stronger entrepreneurship ecosystems, facilitate knowledge-building trainings and increase access to resources for women in Northern Ghana.

Listen to Humu’s story on the HerStory Podcast (episode 28) to learn more about her experience and the impact of in Ghana ➡️ https://bit.ly/3XrScdi

Canada’s International Development – Global Affairs Canada
High Commission of Canada to Ghana, Togo and Sierra Leone

YCI had an inspiring week at in the United Kingdom! 🇬🇧

Forum's Annual Conference of International Volunteer Cooperation Organisations (IVCO) brings together leaders in the volunteer sector from around the world.

Through dynamic speakers, workshops and networking, we explored how to redefine sustainable international volunteering practices in rapidly changing contexts.

These and will feed into YCI’s strategy for driving youth empowerment and social impact on a global scale.

Learn how you can join our youth-powered network ➡️ yci.org

– Meet Mehran, a recent Social Entrepreneurship Fellow for YCI’s program in Zanzibar, Tanzania.

At the end of his placement, Mehran shared motivating insights about his volunteer experience: “My time with HerStart has reinforced my belief in the power of innovation and collaboration to address real-world challenges. Working with inspiring entrepreneurs and contributing to impactful projects is a truly rewarding experience.”

Find out how you can become a HerStart Fellow! ➡️ herstart.org

Canada’s International Development – Global Affairs Canada
High Commission of Canada to Tanzania

Calling all residents! YCI has extended the deadline for applications for the Operations & Finance Manager position based in Zanzibar! 🇹🇿

Apply by Sept 18 ➡ yci.org/job-opportunities

Know someone who would be a great fit? Share this post with them!

Do you live in the GTHA? Come meet us in person this month to learn about YCI’s HerStart International Fellowship program in Ghana, Tanzania and Uganda.

Meet us at:
📍McMaster University, September 12
📍University of Toronto Mississauga, September 18

Connect with YCI and get all your questions answered about international volunteering opportunities!

Learn more about the HerStart Fellowship opportunity ➡️ herstart.org

McMaster University
University of Toronto Mississauga
Canada’s International Development – Global Affairs Canada

YCI is an Operations & Finance Manager based in Zanzibar, Tanzania! 🇹🇿

This role will drive organizational finance and operations functions and coordinate effective systems management for YCI's program in Tanzania.

If you are a citizen of Tanzania and have 5+ years of leadership experience in finance, operations, procurement and/or human resources with a passion for advancing gender equality, we want to hear from you!

Apply by Sept 10 ➡️: yci.org/job-opportunities

Know someone who would be a great fit? Share this post with them!

Big news! YCI is recruiting Canadian young professionals for global impact experiences 🌏

3-month opportunities in Ghana, Tanzania & Uganda are now available within the Fellowship program starting in January & May 2025!

Benefits of a HerStart Fellowship include:

✅ Gain professional international experience + cross-cultural skills
✅ Learn from impact-driven organizations in a global setting
✅ Make tangible contributions to women’s empowerment
✅ Build a network of talented and passionate team members
✅ Receive a benefits package including flights, visas + stipend

Apply soon for the upcoming cohorts ➡️ bit.ly/3Kw9Ox2

Canada’s International Development – Global Affairs Canada

For this year’s , YCI is celebrating the power of youth and digital innovation 🎉

YCI knows that young people are pivotal in the movement to use digital innovation for .

In our program, women entrepreneurs and Canadian volunteers collaborate to accelerate digital literacy and the innovative use of tech. This post features Love and Chanel, HerStart Fellows who have been busy designing and facilitating digital literacy and social media marketing trainings to amplify the impact of young women entrepreneurs in Northern Ghana.

From basic computer skills to more advanced graphic design, these peer-to-peer exchanges have lessened the ‘digital divide’ and assisted HerStart entrepreneurs in becoming confident digital ambassadors for sustainable development.

Thank you to all the young people who are generating innovation around the world! Join our global movement at ➡️ yci.org

Canada’s International Development – Global Affairs Canada
High Commission of Canada to Ghana, Togo and Sierra Leone
NiV
Norsaac
Bolgatanga Technical University

– Meet Asia, Founder of SIYAH Dreams Products in Zanzibar, Tanzania.

With support from her community, Asia learned how to carve coconut shells and re-purpose upcycled plastics. 🥥 She transforms these materials into unique, eco-friendly products and souvenirs for tourists.

Through YCI's program, Asia received funding and coaching to turn her skills and passion for sustainability into a green enterprise. She is dedicated to reducing waste and combating pollution, while raising awareness on the benefits of recycling across her community ♻️

Get to know more inspiring women entrepreneurs at ➡️ herstart.org

Canada’s International Development – Global Affairs Canada High Commission of Canada to Tanzania

– Meet Confidence, the founder of HerNest in Mpigi, Uganda.

Through YCI's program, Confidence received coaching and funding to further develop and scale her innovative social enterprise. Her dedication to prioritizing women’s health and mentoring girls is inspiring – and it’s only just the beginning! 🌸

Swipe through to learn more about Confidence and HerNest.

Ready to support women-led enterprises? Learn more at ➡️ herstart.org

Canada’s International Development – Global Affairs Canada

Did you know that women own approximately 1/3 of all micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) globally? 🌏

This includes young women social entrepreneurs in YCI's program, like Khadia (featured here), founder of Khamasha Lishe in Zanzibar, Tanzania.

While volunteering in the healthcare sector, Khadia was astounded by the high rates of children’s malnutrition, which motivated her to create a nutritional porridge company.

By joining the HerStart program, Khadia strengthened her entrepreneurial skills and is ready to expand her product offerings, further deepening a positive impact in her community. Khadia is just one of many young women entrepreneurs that have launched and scaled their MSMEs through the HerStart program.

Interested in making a global impact through social entrepreneurship? Learn more at ➡️ herstart.org

Source: World Bank Gender Data

Canada’s International Development – Global Affairs Canada High Commission of Canada to Tanzania

It’s time to celebrate Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Day! 🎉🌍

Today YCI is highlighting the critical role women-owned MSMEs play in the global economy and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This post features Mariam, a social entrepreneur in YCI’s program in Ghana. Mariam designs eco-friendly products made from recycled waste and locally sourced fabrics. Her work showcases the creativity of MSMEs and the innovative ways to have an impact on health and environmental challenges 💚

Join us in celebrating the impact of HerStart entrepreneurs like Mariam! 🌟

Learn more about women-led MSMEs and how to get involved in YCI’s HerStart program ➡️ herstart.org

Canada’s International Development – Global Affairs Canada

YCI is a Regional Project Manager based in Zanzibar, Tanzania! 🟣

This role will provide project management to YCI’s Innovate the Future Program across all countries of operation. Applicants must be a Citizen of the East Africa Community, with ability to live and work in Zanzibar, Tanzania.

If you have 10+ years of senior leadership experience with a passion for advancing entrepreneurship and gender equality, this could be a great fit for you!

Apply by July 5 ➡️ https://bit.ly/4bjFD8K

Are you located near Ottawa? Meet YCI at our in-person event next week to learn about the HerStart program and other international volunteer opportunities funded by the Government of Canada! 🌏

Network with like-minded folks and find out how you can contribute your skills and gain professional experience by volunteering globally.

We can’t wait to meet you! Register for free ➡️ https://bit.ly/4aITo0a

Bureau international des droits des enfants (IBCR), Co-operative Development Foundation of Canada, Crossroads International, Veterinarians without Borders, World University Service of Canada (WUSC-EUMC), CECI, Cuso International

Canada’s International Development – Global Affairs Canada

This September, join YCI’s for an adventure with impact! ⛰️

Challenge yourself to trek across the highest peaks in Wales, UK while supporting women entrepreneurs globally through the Catalyst Fund.

With an expert team of mountain leaders, we will spend 3 days trekking through the breathtaking landscapes of Snowdonia National Park, from serene lakes to ancient woodlands.

Spots are limited! Learn more and register ➡️ bit.ly/15PeaksChallenge

Only a few days left to apply for a International Fellowship placement starting this September in Ghana, Tanzania or Uganda!

Check out our new impact-driven opportunities in:

🟣 Communications & Marketing
🟣 Program & Partnerships
🟣 Research & Learning
🟣 Social Entrepreneurship

Apply by this Sunday, May 26 ➡️ bit.ly/3Kw9Ox2

Not available this September? Applications are also open for January 2025!

Canada’s International Development – Global Affairs Canada

It's World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development! 🌏 YCI celebrates 35+ years of fostering cross-cultural collaboration with youth and partners worldwide.

We continue this work today by collaborating with leading global organizations like Barefoot College Zanzibar who provide educational opportunities for rural women with limited access to formal education and resources. Together, we provide social entrepreneurship training, mentorship and funding to create lasting impact for women and their communities.

Learn more and join us ➡️ bit.ly/3Kw9Ox2

Canada’s International Development – Global Affairs Canada

Meet Shannon, a Canadian alum of YCI’s Fellowship and Innovate ME Internship programs!

Through our programs, Shannon gained in-demand skills and knowledge in design thinking, entrepreneurship and community-building. These experiences led to her current roles at AlchemistX and the TELUS Community Safety and Wellness Accelerator, where she supports mission-driven tech companies that are innovating for social good.

Interested in gaining international social impact experience like Shannon? Apply to become a HerStart Fellow ➡️ bit.ly/3Kw9Ox2

Canada’s International Development – Global Affairs Canada

Did you know over half of participants in YCI’s program are mothers?

YCI is proud to provide childcare services for women in our social entrepreneurship programs, reducing barriers to education and ensuring all participants can fully engage and benefit from the training.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the mompreneurs around the world!

Learn more and join us ➡️ herstart.org

Canada’s International Development – Global Affairs Canada

In this episode of YCI’s , hear from Nidhi Gupta about her HerStart Fellowship experience collaborating with the YCI team and partner, Norsaac, in Northern Ghana.

With a background in environmental engineering, Nidhi shares how partnering with local communities to promote sustainability and environmental awareness has shaped her perspective on global climate issues. She also shares her experience developing climate frameworks, supporting women’s social enterprises and her advice for future HerStart Fellows. Listen now ➡️ bit.ly/4bvYg9T

Learn more about YCI’s program and how you can advance your professional development as an international volunteer at herstart.org

Canada’s International Development – Global Affairs Canada

YCI is an Entrepreneurship & Learning Manager based in Mpigi, Uganda! 🟣

This role will coordinate entrepreneurship training, mentorship and funding for participants as well as learning systems management.

If you have 5+ years of enterprise development experience with a passion for advancing gender equality, this could be a great fit for you!

Apply by May 17 ➡️ yci.org/job-opportunities

Know someone perfect for this role? Please share!

Looking to develop your professional skills and make a global impact this year?

Join YCI’s HerStart Fellowship program for a 3-month placement in Ghana, Tanzania or Uganda! 🌍✈️

➡️ Gain hands-on professional international experience
➡️ Collaborate with leading global organizations
➡️ Advance gender equality, entrepreneurship & climate action
➡️ Receive a comprehensive benefits package (flights, health insurance, stipend, training, networking & more!)

Apply now for the September or January cohort ➡️ bit.ly/3Kw9Ox2

Canada’s International Development – Global Affairs Canada

We’re featuring one of YCI’s teams in , Eco Education! 💚

The team aims to foster community and combat eco-anxiety among young people. They created Climate Canvas, a monthly interactive art workshop series to share climate knowledge and provide a safe space for youth to express themselves through painting.

Sign up for YCI’s newsletter for the latest updates on our climate action initiatives ➡️ bit.ly/ycinewsletter

Leaders Today

We’re featuring one of YCI’s teams in , YCI Innovators! 💚

The team aims to raise awareness about Atlantic whitefish, a critically endangered species in Nova Scotia facing threats from overfishing, habitat degradation and invasive species. They displayed a mural at the Halifax Central Library and sold illustrated posters to raise over $1,000 for conservation initiatives led by Coastal Action.

Sign up for YCI’s newsletter for the latest updates on our climate action initiatives ➡️ bit.ly/ycinewsletter

Leaders Today

We’re kicking off by featuring one of YCI’s teams in Halifax, Terra Plate! 💚

The team aims to empower young people to reduce food waste through accessible workshops and resources. They partnered with The Loaded Ladle at Dalhousie University to host a sustainable cooking workshop, teaching attendees how to make a planet-friendly (and delicious!) vegetarian chili.

Sign up for YCI’s newsletter for the latest updates on our climate action initiatives ➡️ bit.ly/ycinewsletter

Stay tuned for more volunteer impact stories all week!

Leaders Today

Earlier this month, we brought together YCI’s participants and partners in for an afternoon of shared learning, community building and good coffee (thanks for hosting us Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters!). We’re excited to see the continued impact of their projects on topics like renewable energy, sustainable fashion, active transportation and more.

Special thanks to our partners at the City of Calgary – Your Local Government and our funders Canada Service Corps (Leaders Today) who make this program possible!

Get the latest on YCI’s climate action initiatives by signing up for our newsletter ➡️ bit.ly/ycinewsletter

We’re still buzzing from our Climate Action Summit in Halifax this past weekend! 🌎

It was an incredible day of community-building and celebrating the work of YCI’s Climate Action Catalysts on sustainability topics like food waste, active transportation, conservation and more.

Special thanks to our partners at the Halifax Regional Municipality and our funders Canada Service Corps who make YCI’s Climate Futures Lab program possible!

Sign up for our newsletter for the latest updates on YCI's climate action initiatives ➡️ bit.ly/ycinewsletter

Leaders Today

Join us for a free screening of UnCharitable at Toronto’s historic R***e Cinema and get ready to rethink everything you know about change.

UnCharitable is a powerful documentary that exposes the dark side of philanthropy and the need for radical new ways of creating meaningful impact.

This March 19 from 6:00-8:30 PM, learn about challenges in the nonprofit sector, connect with the YCI community and explore opportunities to get involved!

Register to save your spot ➡️ bit.ly/4bVXi85