The month of May was nothing short of a whirlwind for the Going Beyond Project and we are loving every second of it.
With the launch of Phase Two, we were reminded of just how much energy, passion, and potential exists in the youth of Tanzania. The first major milestone? Recruiting our new youth leaders. And let’s just say, young people showed up in full force.
We received over 200 applications from aspiring changemakers across Morogoro and Dar es salaam, each one packed with dreams, drive, and dedication. Narrowing down this group was no easy task, but after a careful review, we shortlisted 60 candidates for interviews. It was inspiring to speak to so many young people determined to drive change in their communities.
From this talented pool, we selected 33 youth leaders to move forward to the next stage: our Training of Trainers (ToT). These are the future facilitators, peer mentors, and champions who will take the project deeper into the community. Out of the 33 selected, 24 females and 9 males, a strong signal of our commitment to amplifying the voices and leadership of young women while ensuring inclusive youth representation.
But the real magic began on Day 0.
Before diving into technical sessions, we created a space for connection, grounding, and clarity. Day 0 was all about introducing our youth leaders to the full journey ahead, the goals, and the heart of the Going Beyond Project. It was their first opportunity to officially meet the Her Initiative Going Beyond team, putting faces to the people behind the project and creating a sense of shared purpose from the start.
This session was about belonging. Youth leaders asked thoughtful questions they did not have the chance to raise during interviews. We saw curiosity turn into clarity, and nerves turn into excitement. The room buzzed with energy as these young changemakers began to truly own their role in this movement.
After getting a proper introduction, the potential youth leaders went through a 1 week online self paced learning course, the courses included topics such as 21st century learning, ICT experience, landscape assessment, compassion, empathy and ICT, Participatory Action Research, Environmental Awareness and Gender and local landscape, all these courses sharpening them towards the right direction into entry of the youth leadership program.
Recognizing the importance of strong local partnerships, our team headed to Morogoro to connect with potential host organizations, those vital community-based partners who will support and guide our youth leaders on the ground. The trip proved to be fruitful: we held meaningful conversations with several organizations and successfully secured 5 new partners. Their readiness to support youth-driven impact only strengthens our belief that this project is growing in the right direction.
This past month was about a continuation of what we have already started. Going into the second phase of the Going Beyond Project with so much energy, excitement and a lot to share to the youth leaders who are about to experience a life changing journey.