AYP in Action

GOYN’s Authentic Youth Partnerships approach ensures that Opportunity Youth shape the decisions that shape their lives.

Youth Innovation Fund

GOYN’s Youth Innovation Fund (YIF) launched in 2021 in collaboration with GOYN partners and Opportunity Youth from GOYN communities. YIF supports youth-created, youth-led projects through micro-grants—engaging OY and adult allies to tell their stories and address local barriers to employment, equity, and environmental sustainability.Grounded in design thinking, equity analysis, and community asset mapping, YIF equips OY to identify structural barriers, prototype solutions, implement civic action projects, measure impact, and advocate for institutional change.

Equity Leadership Program

GOYN’s Equity Leadership Program (ELP) launched in 2023 in collaboration with youth partners to advance equity and structural justice by empowering OY leaders to address systemic barriers.

Designed by young leaders, the peer-developed curriculum is inclusive, accessible, and practical. To date, 1,500+ OY and 100+ adult allies across 14 communities have participated—leading equity-centered initiatives tailored to their local contexts.

Participants have promoted inclusive hiring practices, launched youth-led civic engagement efforts, and stepped into leadership roles. In Tanga, Tanzania and Raichur, India, Equity Leaders have run for local public office—bringing OY perspectives into policymaking and demonstrating community impact.