Success Story: Power to Youth Launches Human-Centered Design Program Inspired by Safe Engage Foundation's Positive Masculinity Initiative
In the dynamic yet challenging environment of the Kuria Community, Safe Engage Foundation (SEF) has been taking lead in tackling sexual gender-based violence (SGBV) and harmful cultural practices. Through its Positive Masculinity initiative, which is part of the Young Women for Awareness, Agency, Advocacy and Accountability (YW4A) program, this initiative has sparked transformative change in the Kuria community.
At the heart of this transformation is the creation of Feminist Empowerment Movement Space (FEMSpaces), inclusive environments where marginalized groups, particularly women and girls, can discuss critical issues and develop community-driven solutions. Recognizing that lasting change requires the engagement of all community members, SEF expanded these sessions to include boys and young men, introducing them to the principles of Positive Masculinity. This approach gave rise to the Positive Masculinity Program, which has engaged boys and young men in meaningful conversations about their role in ending SGBV and empowered them to challenge harmful social norms.
The success of SEF’s Positive Masculinity Program has led to broader community involvement and inspired further innovation. Insights gained from these sessions paved the way for the couple's session initiative, encouraging open dialogues on gender equality.
Inspired by Safe Engage Foundation's innovative approach, Power to Youth, supported by Amref Health Africa, adopted these Positive Masculinity concepts to develop a winning proposal for a Human-Centered Design (HCD) pilot project in Migori County, set to run from August 2024 to December 2024. The HCD project aims to revolutionize how the community addresses SGBV and harmful practices through:Kuria intergenerational assembly, film screenings, and school-based debate activities —all designed to promote positive social change.
The HCD pilot project has begun, anticipation within the community is high. The planned Kuria intergenerational assembly will facilitate dialogues between young men and senior community members, fostering a culture of respect and equality and combating harmful cultural norms. Film screenings will serve as a powerful visual medium to educate and inspire, while school-based debates will engage the younger generation in meaningful conversations about gender equality and GBV.
Safe Engage Foundation is immensely proud that its Positive Masculinity Program has been a key influence in shaping this innovative project. Collaborating with organizations like Tunaweza Empowerment Organization, Touch One Life and AMREF in developing this innovative project is a testimony to the power of collaboration and community-centred approaches. By building on SEF's successful strategies, Power to Youth through HCD project will help create a future where all community members can engage and thrive without fear of violence or discrimination.
For more information, click and listen to the summary presentation of the Innovation Pilot Proposal: https://www.loom.com/share/32e950bf3a464074a9fbe036762e4067
