SayPro and the United States Peace Corps are working together to ensure that youth are no longer sidelined in local governance. This initiative empowers young people to participate actively in public decision-making processes that affect their lives. SayPro facilitates youth councils, civic education programs, and public forums where youth can engage with policymakers. Peace Corps volunteers mentor youth representatives and help them understand the structure, responsibilities, and functioning of local governments. The program aims to cultivate a generation of leaders who are confident, informed, and engaged.
Civic engagement is introduced through interactive workshops, school-based mock elections, and community service projects. Youth are taught how local budgets work, how policies are made, and how they can voice their concerns effectively. SayPro supports the creation of Youth Advisory Boards that present actionable recommendations to municipal councils. Peace Corps volunteers guide these processes and connect youth with global best practices. Through this exposure, young participants learn that their voices matter and that civic responsibility begins at the local level.
Youth-led town hall meetings and debates foster critical thinking and public speaking skills. SayPro encourages diverse participation, including young women, differently-abled youth, and those from marginalized backgrounds. These inclusive platforms break down stereotypes and promote tolerance. Peace Corps volunteers help ensure accessibility and provide translation or adaptive materials as needed. The result is a vibrant space where all youth feel heard and valued, and where dialogue leads to real change.
By involving youth in governance, SayPro is investing in the future of democracy. The partnership with the Peace Corps brings global insights and community trust that strengthens this initiative. Youth who understand governance today are more likely to lead ethically tomorrow. As this program expands, SayPro envisions communities where youth are not just future leaders, but current stakeholders shaping policies that reflect their realities and dreams.