EMPOWER360 YOUNG PEOPLE’S FELLOWSHIP

In Uganda, the young population holds significant power in the fight for justice, yet this potential is often undermined by oppressive systems. Many outspoken youth leaders have been co-opted through financial incentives or government positions, aligning them with those who oppress. However, a resilient core of young people remains unwavering in their dedication to nonviolent resistance and justice. These individuals continue to play key roles in social and political movements, using their influence to promote transformative change.

Drawing on movement theorists like Bill Moyer, we understand that learning is a continuous and vital part of every movement’s evolution. This recognition led us to create the Empower360 Young People’s Fellowship (EYPF)—a platform for mentorship, inclusive dialogue, multi-stakeholder engagements, and collective learning. The Fellowship aims to empower young leaders, students, and dedicated organizers to harness the power of Civil Resistance (CR) and Nonviolent Resistance (NVR) methodologies and to spread these approaches to others.

The Fellowship is built on a robust Theory of Change, anchored in three core components: Inspiration, Education, and Action. These elements are essential for driving meaningful transformation.

Inspiration: In the face of injustice and oppression, inspiration serves as the catalyst that propels individuals to rise above complacency and take a stand. It ignites the passion and determination needed to challenge the status quo and envision a better future.

Education: Knowledge is a powerful tool that empowers individuals to pursue change effectively. Without access to education, individuals may resort to ineffective or harmful means to seek change. We aim to equip fellows with the knowledge and skills needed to leverage their collective power and advocate for sustainable and peaceful solutions.

Action: Transformative change requires decisive action. Without proactive engagement and action, even the most inspired and educated individuals may struggle to effect meaningful change. We are committed to empowering our fellows to translate their inspiration and education into tangible actions that drive positive change in their communities.

The Empower360 Fellowship provides a unique platform for young people to:

Harness Civil Resistance (CR) and Nonviolent Resistance (NVR) Methodologies: Gain practical skills for peaceful advocacy and change-making.

Actively Participate in Governance: Empower young people to engage in governance processes, voice their concerns, and influence policy decisions.

Share Knowledge and Information: Foster a culture of collaborative learning and innovation through the exchange of ideas and best practices.

Develop Leadership Skills: Receive mentorship and training to build leadership qualities, rooted in integrity, empathy, and vision.

Inspire Others: Equip participants with the tools to become catalysts for change, empowering them to positively influence their communities.

Empower Future Leaders: Provide young change-makers with the networks and skills needed to drive lasting, positive change.

Promote Democratic Values: Instill a deeper understanding of democratic principles and good governance to foster transparency and accountability.

Address Critical Issues: Encourage youth to tackle key challenges such as inequality, social justice, gender rights, and climate change through innovative solutions.

The Goal

The ultimate goal of the Empower360 Young People’s Fellowship is to nurture a new generation of young leaders who are competent, courageous, and committed to building an inclusive and equitable Uganda, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Note: Applications for the 2024 cohort are now closed. Stay tuned for future opportunities!

THE GOAL

To nurture a new generation of young leaders who are competent, courageous, and committed to creating an inclusive and equitable Uganda where everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive.

 

Target

The fellowship is designed to engage a diverse and dynamic group of young individuals between the ages of 20 and 35. These include University students, post-school youths, and youth in business.

OBJECTIVES

Main Objective:

To cultivate a vibrant and inclusive space that fosters deeper engagement among young people. Through meaningful dialogues, trust-building, and mobilization, we strive to empower participants to take collective action and drive positive change in their communities.

Specific objectives

  1. To facilitate collaboration among like-minded individuals and groups to forge strong alliances, and strengthen unity and resilience among participants, empowering them to confront and overcome challenges, including repression.
  2. To Foster coalition building and strategic partnerships to amplify the collective voice of young people and influence decision-making processes.

Program Delivery

The fellowship will be delivered through a comprehensive blend of residential and virtual workshops, spanning three (3) months. These immersive learning experiences will provide fellows with a platform to engage deeply with the fellowship’s core principles, collaborate with peers, and develop practical skills to drive impactful change.

Apply for the very 1st cohort of the fellowship here

Deadline is 6th September 2024.