Empowering Youth Leadership: The Impact of the SHE SOARS Project in Zambia

In Zambia, the CARE Zambia Sexual and reproductive Health and Economic empowerment (SHE) Supporting Out-of-school Adolescent girls’ Rights and Skills (SOARS) Project stands as a beacon of hope and empowerment, championing the belief that young people possess the transformative power to lead change in their communities. The project recognizes that out-of-school adolescent girls are often excluded from traditional adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) programming. These young girls are difficult to reach and frequently experience the greatest need for comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services, with minimal access to such resources. The SHE SOARS Project aims to change the narrative for these marginalized individuals.

The SHE SOARS project is dedicated to improving access to sexual and reproductive health information and services. It seeks to address the root causes of gender-based inequalities, transform restrictive legal, sociocultural, religious, and political norms, and enhance decision-making power for 1,210,640 adolescents, particularly out-of-school girls, in Kenya, Uganda, and Zambia. The ultimate goal is to increase the enjoyment of health-related human rights for the most marginalized and vulnerable women and girls, particularly out-of-school adolescent girls.

Central to this initiative is the emphasis on youth leadership and meaningful engagement, recognizing the essential role that young individuals play in shaping a brighter future. At the heart of the SHE SOARS Project are the Young Connectors, a dynamic group of youth leaders who guide both girls’ and role model boys’ groups. Their leadership is not merely a title but a commitment to fostering collaboration, valuing feedback, and ensuring accountability in project implementation. Over the past two years, these dedicated Young Connectors have enrolled and conducted vital sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) sessions for the first cohort of participants, proving that youth can drive positive change in their communities.

However, their journey has not been without challenges. The Young Connectors faced significant hurdles related to transportation, which impeded their ability to effectively reach participants across various communities. Recognizing that mobility is crucial for effective youth leadership, the SHE SOARS Project took decisive action. In a groundbreaking initiative, the project procured 46 bicycles for the Young Connectors, directly addressing their transport challenges.

This initiative not only alleviates mobility issues but also serves as a powerful motivator for the Young Connectors. With enhanced capacity, they are now better equipped to conduct SRHR sessions and prepare for the enrollment of a second cohort of girls’ and boys’ groups. This strategic investment demonstrates the project’s commitment to nurturing youth leadership and supporting the needs of young people as they strive to create meaningful change.

The SHE SOARS Project’s proactive approach in addressing the feedback from Young Connectors underscores its dedication to youth-led initiatives. By providing the necessary tools and support, the project empowers these young leaders to maximize their impact within their communities. As the Young Connectors continue to inspire their peers and foster a culture of open dialogue around sexual and reproductive health, the SHE SOARS Project remains steadfast in its mission. With a focus on accountability and collaboration, it is paving the way for a new generation of empowered youth leaders poised to drive sustainable change.