Youth Leadership: Nurturing Future Change Makers

The Youth Leadership initiative aims to develop the leadership potential of young people while fostering community ownership, responsibility, and active citizenship. Through this initiative, youth are encouraged to identify local issues and take collective action on challenges such as child marriage, school dropouts, child labour, domestic violence, and other social concerns.

Implemented by CYSD to nurture future community leaders, the programme has reached     districts of Odisha like Koraput, Rayagada, Malkangiri, Keonjhar, Puri, and the Balangir-Kalahandi region. More than 200 young leaders have been trained in leadership, communication, and management skills. The initiative also promotes compassion, empathy, and social responsibility, enabling young people to emerge as confident and responsible change-makers.

Eight Youth Leadership Camps have been organized, bringing together tribal and vulnerable youth to strengthen their confidence, knowledge, and leadership abilities. Youth clubs formed under the programme serve as platforms for collective action and local problem-solving.

Legal literacy and rights awareness training have further empowered young leaders to address social justice issues. Many now support school dropouts, organize Shramadan activities, promote healthy practices, and address local concerns. Going forward, committed youth leaders will receive advanced Power to Community Leader Training to lead sustainable change in their communities.