Empowering the Youth of DRC: Upendo Foundation’s Commitment to the Next Generation
Building Hope, Skills, and Leadership in Bunagana and Beyond
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the youth represent both the majority and the future of our nation. Yet, millions of young people face limited access to quality education, job opportunities, and platforms to express themselves. At Upendo Foundation, we see this not as a challenge—but as an opportunity. Our commitment to youth empowerment in DRC is rooted in the belief that every young person deserves a chance to learn, lead, and thrive.
👧🏾 Why Youth Empowerment Matters in DRC
The young people of Congo carry tremendous potential to transform their communities. However, many are held back by poverty, lack of access to education, conflict, and unemployment. Youth empowerment is essential if we are to build a peaceful, equitable, and self-reliant future.
At Upendo Foundation, we empower youth by giving them the tools, training, and voice they need to become agents of change. Our approach is holistic—focusing on education, life skills, leadership development, and economic opportunities.
🧵 Vocational Training: Skills for Sustainable Livelihoods
One of our core youth empowerment initiatives is vocational training. We currently offer a tailoring program, where young women and girls are trained in professional sewing and fashion design. So far, more than 25 youth have graduated, with many now running their own businesses or earning a reliable income.
We are expanding our training program to include:
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Computer literacy and digital skills
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Basic electricity and home wiring
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Entrepreneurship and small business management
These programs not only equip youth with marketable skills but also restore their dignity and confidence.
“Before joining Upendo’s tailoring training, I had no hope. Now, I make clothes, earn income, and dream bigger every day.”
— Merveille, Tailoring Graduate
📻 Voice of Upendo Radio: Giving Young People a Voice
Our youth empowerment efforts go beyond technical training. Through Voice of Upendo Radio, we provide a powerful platform for young people to speak, share, learn, and inspire others.
Every week, youth-led programs focus on:
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Personal growth and mental health
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Youth entrepreneurship
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Civic engagement and peacebuilding
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Music, culture, and community topics
By empowering youth with media skills and airtime, we are nurturing the next generation of leaders, communicators, and change-makers.
🧑🏽🤝🧑🏽 Community Engagement and Volunteering
Youth at Upendo Foundation are also encouraged to give back through community service and volunteerism. They participate in:
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Health and hygiene awareness campaigns
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Environmental cleanup and tree planting
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Tutoring younger students in after-school programs
These experiences help young people build leadership skills, a sense of responsibility, and pride in being part of positive change.
💬 Impact in Action
“Being part of Upendo gave me more than skills. It gave me a purpose and the courage to help others in my community.”
— Jean-Paul, Youth Volunteer
“I never thought my voice mattered. Now, I speak on the radio about topics that affect us. I feel heard.”
— Chantal, Youth Radio Presenter
💡 Our Vision for the Future
Upendo Foundation is working toward a DRC where every young person:
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Has access to quality education and training
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Can express themselves freely and safely
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Has the opportunity to earn, grow, and lead
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Plays a role in shaping a peaceful and empowered society
Our vision is clear: empowered youth = empowered nation.
❤️ How You Can Support Youth Empowerment
You can help us reach more young people by:
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Sponsoring a youth training participant
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Donating learning materials or equipment
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Partnering on youth-led initiatives
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Volunteering to teach or mentor
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Spreading the word about our mission
Your support helps transform potential into power.
📞 Get in Touch
Want to learn more or get involved in empowering youth in DRC?
📍 Bunagana, Rutshuru, Nord-Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo
📞 +256 783 538 191
📧 info@upendo-foundation.org
🌐 www.upendo-foundation.org