About YESD

A youth-led organization built on one principle: nothing for the youth, without the youth.

Youth Empowerment for Sustainable Development (YESD) is a youth-led, non-profit, non-political, and non-religious organization dedicated to empowering young people to become active drivers of sustainable development. YESD is registered as a Private Limited Company by Guarantee and operates as a social enterprise, ensuring financial sustainability while maintaining its non-profit mandate.

Youth beneficiaries in their community

Vision

A society where empowered, skilled, self-reliant, and resilient young people actively contribute to sustainable development and social transformation.

Mission

To empower young people socially, economically, and psychologically through capacity building, mentorship, advocacy, and sustainable livelihood initiatives — with the provision of digital platforms and skills.

Goal

To help young people in Malawi realize their full potential and actively contribute to sustainable development, social transformation, and resilient communities — addressing economic, social, psychological, and environmental dimensions of empowerment together.

Our methodology

The YESD Way: a four-stage journey from vulnerability to integration.

Inspiration

Community outreach, school-based workshops, and civic awareness campaigns spark interest and identify motivated young people, especially from marginalized backgrounds.

Incubation

Structured mentorship builds self-confidence, resilience, and a growth mindset through coaching, group discussion, and leadership training.

Skill Development

Hands-on training in vocational trades, digital literacy, financial literacy, and professionalism, aligned to real labor-market demand.

Integration

Job placement support, seed capital for entrepreneurs, and links to governance platforms turn training into sustainable livelihoods and civic voice.

Core values

Six commitments that shape every program we run.

Youth Leadership

Young people sit at the center of the mission as decision-makers, program designers, and leaders — not just beneficiaries.

Integrity & Accountability

Transparent systems for financial management, program delivery, and stakeholder feedback build trust with everyone we work with.

Inclusivity & Equity

Programs are built to reach marginalized and vulnerable groups, including young women, persons with disabilities, and underserved communities.

Innovation

New ideas, modern technology, and evidence-based approaches keep programs relevant to a fast-changing world.

Sustainability

Interventions are designed for long-term benefit to individuals, communities, and the environment — not one-off delivery.

Community Participation

Beneficiaries, local leaders, and stakeholders help plan, implement, and evaluate every program from the start.

YESD at a glance

10–35

Age range served

Strategic objectives

Strategic pillars

Program areas