Discover the Power of Giving Through Stories. Explore, be inspired, and join us in building a brighter future.
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Champions
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2024
YouthGive
Champions
Countries
1
+
Stories and Counting
1
+
Partners
1
Podcast listens
1
+
MEET OUR CHAMPIONS
See How African Youths Are Influencing the Future of Giving
The #YouthGiveAfrica contest has uncovered some of the most inspiring stories of generosity from across the continent. These champions are everyday heroes -young people who are using their talents, passions, and determination to create real change in their communities. This space is dedicated to celebrating their stories, highlighting the ways they’re challenging societal norms, inspiring kindness, and making an impact.
As you explore these incredible journeys, we hope you’ll not only be inspired but also reminded of the power of giving in shaping a brighter, more equitable future for all.
FINALISTS
Babatunde Bale
Co-founder of The R.E.T.I.N.A Initiative
Babatunde Bale, co-founder of The R.E.T.I.N.A Initiative, is a visionary changemaker dedicated to tackling preventable blindness in underserved communities.
Through his Vision Without Borders project, Babatunde extended support to Makoko, a neglected slum. For the first time, over 400 residents received eye screenings, glasses, and life-changing surgeries. By restoring sight, Babatunde’s initiative empowered lives, showing that hope and action can transform entire communities.
Narau Kimani Laizer
Conservationist, Educator and Co-founder of ECIO
Narau Kimani, a conservationist and educator from northern Tanzania, co-founded ECIO to empower her Maasai community. She mentors young girls, combats harmful practices, and advocates for education and conservation—proving that true leadership breaks barriers and uplifts communities.
Alida Tchinda
Gender Specialist and Social Entrepreneur
Alida Tchinda, a gender specialist and social entrepreneur from Cameroon, empowers women and girls seeking mentorship and support. By overcoming poverty and guiding others, she’s proving that resilience can spark hope and change for entire communities. She focuses on those seeking peer mentorship, victims of Gender-based violence or persons fleeing from conflict and climate induced migration.
Sarah Fehintioluwa Owoka
Social Worker and Advocate for Social Justice
A passionate social worker and advocate for social justice who is dedicated to amplifying the voices of underserved communities. Sarah’s commitment to equity and social change shines through her work as she drives impactful conversations and initiatives that promote the well-being of all individuals. She has trained over 80 young girls to become peer educators on domestic violence. Through this experience, She empowered them to understand their worth, demand respect, and become leaders for change in their communities.
Bernard Joseph Kicheleri
18-Year-Old Childhood Cancer Survivor
At just 18, Bernard is a survivor, an advocate, and a changemaker. After battling cancer for 11 years, this Tanzanian teen turned his journey into a mission to save lives.
Through his youth-led program in Dar es Salaam, Bernard raises funds for children with cancer and spreads awareness in schools, empowering young people with knowledge and hope.
His story is a reminder that generosity can come from pain, strength can emerge from challenges, and every action, no matter how small, creates ripples of change.
Learn More
Nkuubi Dominic Savio
Youth Development Professional
Nkuubi Dominic Savio is a seasoned youth development professional dedicated to creating opportunities for young people across Africa.
Growing up in Kampala, Nkuubi witnessed the harsh realities young people face—domestic violence, poverty, and limited access to education. Determined to make a difference, he joined YVCHQ as an intern in 2022 and later opened the Uganda Chapter.
Yohana Matiko Isack
Environmental Engineer and Community Leader
Yohana, an environmental engineer and community leader from Tanzania, is making waves in WaSH, youth empowerment, and climate justice. He’s improving lives by building 15 community toilets, empowering women vendors through the DADA GENGE Hub, and advocating for inclusive health solutions in schools—proving that true leadership is service in action.
Jessica Wilson
Changemaker
Jessica, a passionate South African changemaker, believes in the power of small actions to create big change. Inspired by her struggle to navigate volunteering opportunities, she turned this challenge into a movement.
While volunteering with incredible organizations in Cape Town, she realized the need for a platform to connect people with causes and make giving back simple yet impactful.
Now, her initiative is growing across South Africa, fostering connection, opportunity, and the community spirit that defines the nation.
Barbara Nangendo
Champion for Gender Equality and Community Empowerment
She leads a social project called Skills for Change, which offers a comprehensive 6-month training in tailoring, and family planning sessions,
She donates reusable sanitary pads to vulnerable women and girls in the slums of Kampala.
Her mission is to promote decent work and economic growth in underserved communities through vocational skills training in tailoring, family planning education, and reusable sanitary pad donations.
TOP 30 CHAMPIONS
Kimani Anthony
Poet , Photographer and Advocate
From the vibrant community of Kibera, Nairobi, Kimani is using his talents in poetry and photography to drive change. His art tells powerful stories of resilience and hope, capturing both the struggles and the beauty of his community.
Kimani is not just an artist—he’s a mentor and advocate, challenging stereotypes and empowering youth to find their voice and embrace self-expression.
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Ubaidullah Alhassan
Nigerian Undergraduate Student of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Ubaidullah Alhassan is a third-year Nigerian undergraduate student of Pharmaceutical Sciences with a passion for making a positive impact in his community. He thrives on exploring new ideas, volunteering, and creating meaningful change.
On his campus, cats are a common yet overlooked presence in the hostels and surrounding environment. Recognizing this, Ubaidullah founded Feed A Cat Today (FACT)—the first-ever student animal welfare club dedicated to improving the welfare of campus cats.
Grace Mercy Muruthi
Film maker and Creative
A filmmaker and creative from Nairobi, Kenya, Grace uses film and theatre to inspire kindness and drive social change.
As a member of “Sisi kwa Sisi” (“Ourselves to Ourselves”), Grace organizes visits to children’s homes and supports people in need.
She also creates impactful films and uses her talents to mentor students and engage in church programs.
Learn More
Sarah Fehintioluwa Owoka
Social Worker and Advocate for Social Justice
A passionate social worker and advocate for social justice who is dedicated to amplifying the voices of underserved communities. Sarah’s commitment to equity and social change shines through her work as she drives impactful conversations and initiatives that promote the well-being of all individuals. She has trained over 80 young girls to become peer educators on domestic violence. Through this experience, She empowered them to understand their worth, demand respect, and become leaders for change in their communities.
Bernard Joseph Kicheleri
18-Year-Old Childhood Cancer Survivor
At just 18, Bernard is a survivor, an advocate, and a changemaker. After battling cancer for 11 years, this Tanzanian teen turned his journey into a mission to save lives.
Through his youth-led program in Dar es Salaam, Bernard raises funds for children with cancer and spreads awareness in schools, empowering young people with knowledge and hope.
His story is a reminder that generosity can come from pain, strength can emerge from challenges, and every action, no matter how small, creates ripples of change.
Learn More
Nkuubi Dominic Savio
Youth Development Professional
Nkuubi Dominic Savio is a seasoned youth development professional dedicated to creating opportunities for young people across Africa.
Growing up in Kampala, Nkuubi witnessed the harsh realities young people face—domestic violence, poverty, and limited access to education. Determined to make a difference, he joined YVCHQ as an intern in 2022 and later opened the Uganda Chapter.
Sylivia Opieba
A Climate Advocate Transforming Lives Through Creativity and Action
Sylivia is the founder of Green Got Talent, a youth-led initiative that creates a platform for young people to advocate for climate change through talents, artistic expressions, and creativity.
One of her standout projects, Restoring School Lands in Kenya, brought together 100 Grade Six students, two teachers, and 11 volunteers at Shadrack Kimalel Primary School in Nairobi. Together, they participated in a tree-planting activity and a climate education session, inspiring the next generation to care for their environment.
Learn More
Ikeme Uchechukwu Sixtus
Photographer, Travel Content Creator, and Climate Activist
Ikeme Uchechukwu Sixtus embodies the spirit of generosity and care through his tireless volunteerism and advocacy efforts in Nigeria.
From participating in beach cleanups to protect marine life to feeding the underprivileged and visiting the elderly in old age homes.
Ikeme uses his time and creativity to make a meaningful impact.
Learn More
Godwin Chiluka
Medical Student, The CopperBetl University
Inspired by his mother's unwavering commitment as a teacher for differently-abled children, Godwin Chiluka emerged as a tenacious champion for mental health after triumphing over a harrowing suicide attempt.
He is a founding member of Tufwike Zambia, which provides clothing and school materials to vulnerable communities.
In 2022, Godwin co- founded the Mental Matters Movement, which promotes mental health awareness and supports youth empowerment.
Learn More
Abegunde Moses
Medical Student
A 5th-year medical student at the University of Benin
Through the Deeper Life Medical Group, Moses mentors fellow medical students, organizing weekly academic summits and monthly meetings that have led to excellent pass rates in all exams written by group members.
Learn More
Hanis Kakaba Habila
Volunteer and Advocate for Social Integration and Community Development.
Hanis Kakaba Habila's story began with a heartfelt burden to support vulnerable widows in her community. Last Christmas, he shared his vision with family and friends, who rallied around him. Together, they provided food, clothing, and essentials to over 60 widows, spreading hope and joy during the festive season.
Aisha Muhammad Alkal
Changemaker
Aisha Muhammad Alkali is dedicated to uplifting orphans in Borno State, Nigeria, by sharing her knowledge and supporting them with generosity, creating ripples of hope and empowerment in her community.
Yohana Matiko Isack
Environmental Engineer and Community Leader
Yohana, an environmental engineer and community leader from Tanzania, is making waves in WaSH, youth empowerment, and climate justice. He’s improving lives by building 15 community toilets, empowering women vendors through the DADA GENGE Hub, and advocating for inclusive health solutions in schools—proving that true leadership is service in action.
Jessica Wilson
Changemaker
Jessica, a passionate South African changemaker, believes in the power of small actions to create big change. Inspired by her struggle to navigate volunteering opportunities, she turned this challenge into a movement.
While volunteering with incredible organizations in Cape Town, she realized the need for a platform to connect people with causes and make giving back simple yet impactful.
Now, her initiative is growing across South Africa, fostering connection, opportunity, and the community spirit that defines the nation.
Barbara Nangendo
Champion for Gender Equality and Community Empowerment
She leads a social project called Skills for Change, which offers a comprehensive 6-month training in tailoring, and family planning sessions,
She donates reusable sanitary pads to vulnerable women and girls in the slums of Kampala.
Her mission is to promote decent work and economic growth in underserved communities through vocational skills training in tailoring, family planning education, and reusable sanitary pad donations.
Imani Lubaba
Founder of Rubaba Media and Tanzania na Kilimo
Imani Lubaba Emmanuel (Rubaba Imani), founder of Rubaba Media and Tanzania na Kilimo, empowers farmers and youth in Tanzania through investigative journalism and storytelling—promoting sustainable development and advocating for social justice.
Kingsford Amoah
Founder of "Save a Girl,"
Kingsford Amoah, founder of "Save a Girl," is transforming SRHR education for young girls in rural Ghana through workshops, health supplies, and advocacy—empowering them to live healthier, informed lives.
Maluyane Titius Abongdoh
Founder of e-Mentor
Maluyane, founder of e-Mentor, turned personal adversity into a mission to empower underserved youth. Using VR-driven education, they’ve impacted 800+ students and trained 150 teachers in Cameroon’s Anglophone region.
Noutchaya Tagne Eunice
Education advocate and Founder of Talk Professional
Eunice Noutchaya is an education advocate and founder of Talk Professional. Her school and career guidance platform in Cameroon has empowered 47 young people and built a 150-member network, proving that with the right support, education can change lives.
Semere Kidu
Founder of African Market Group Social Enterprise
Semere, founder of African Market Group Social Enterprise, turned his battle scars into a mission to empower PWDs in Tigray, Ethiopia. By innovating crutches and providing free training, he’s restoring dignity, mobility, and independence to his community.
Simon Favour OgheneKparobo
Visionary Leader and Founder of The Perfect Haven Foundation
Simon O. Favour is a visionary leader and founder of The Perfect Haven Foundation in Nigeria. Since its launch in 2020, his team has led impactful food drives and outreach programs to fight hunger and empower communities in Bonny Island, Port Harcourt, and Warri.
Babatunde Bale
Co-founder of The R.E.T.I.N.A Initiative
Babatunde Bale, co-founder of The R.E.T.I.N.A Initiative, is a visionary changemaker dedicated to tackling preventable blindness in underserved communities.
Through his Vision Without Borders project, Babatunde extended support to Makoko, a neglected slum. For the first time, over 400 residents received eye screenings, glasses, and life-changing surgeries. By restoring sight, Babatunde’s initiative empowered lives, showing that hope and action can transform entire communities.
Narau Kimani Laizer
Conservationist, Educator and Co-founder of ECIO
Narau Kimani, a conservationist and educator from northern Tanzania, co-founded ECIO to empower her Maasai community. She mentors young girls, combats harmful practices, and advocates for education and conservation—proving that true leadership breaks barriers and uplifts communities.
Alida Tchinda
Gender Specialist and Social Entrepreneur
Alida Tchinda, a gender specialist and social entrepreneur from Cameroon, empowers women and girls seeking mentorship and support. By overcoming poverty and guiding others, she’s proving that resilience can spark hope and change for entire communities. She focuses on those seeking peer mentorship, victims of Gender-based violence or persons fleeing from conflict and climate induced migration.
Morris Akpebe
Founder of African Students and Youth Innovation Initiative
Morris Akpebe, founder of African Students and Youth Innovation Initiative, has empowered 2,000+ students through workshops on innovation and entrepreneurship and launched an EdTech platform to tackle learning challenges in universities.
Hyacintha Buganzi Justinian
Medical Student and Mental Health Advocate
Hyacintha Buganzi is a medical student and mental health advocate passionate about serving her community in Dar es Salaam. Her initiatives include book drives, menstrual hygiene projects, and funding education, showing that giving back empowers lasting change.
Oyinlola Idris Adewale
Champion for Educational Equity
Oyinlola Idris Adewale, a champion for educational equity, leads mentorship and advocacy programs across Nigeria—providing scholarships, learning tools, and leadership training to help underserved youth break cycles of poverty and pursue brighter futures.
Maxwell Tebi
Visionary Science Graduate
Maxwell Tebi is a visionary science graduate from Ghana dedicated to African development. He sacrificed an entire year to help others achieve their dreams, showing that progress begins with selfless actions.
Deborah Fashida
Changemaker and Mechanical Engineer
Deborah Fashida is a changemaker and aspiring mechanical engineer empowering youth through her MUN IYA project. She leads tech seminars for students and workshops on assistive technologies, creating inclusive opportunities for digital learning.
Naomi Masinga
Farmer and the Founder of Emseni
As a dedicated volunteer with CareEpilepsy Ethiopia and Alemachin, she works tirelessly to uplift vulnerable groups and inspire change.
Her life-changing experience at Alemachin, where she taught children with disabilities and supported them with tasks like cleaning and cooking, highlighted the profound power of compassion.
Witnessing their hopeful smiles and dreams of recovery reinforced her belief in the transformative impact of small acts of kindness.
