Youth Empowerment for Social Cohesion (YESC)

We are thrilled to share the incredible impact of the USAID’s Youth Empowerment for Social Cohesion (YESC) Activity, implemented by Tdh in partnership with VSO and Shushilan in Rajapalong and Ratnapalong Unions of Ukhiya Upazila under Cox’s Bazar District.

The YESC project took a multisectoral approach, integrating interventions to increase social cohesion in the communities of selected unions at Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar. By actively involving youth, women, and early married girls, the project empowered them to take on leadership roles and access agricultural value chains through collaboration with the private sector and government authorities. Through YESC:

451 early married girls participated in income-generating activities like homestead gardening, native poultry bird rearing, cattle farming, tailoring, handicrafts, and small-scale grocery shops. 360 youths at risk of violence received training on social and leadership skills through United States Government-assisted programs. Additionally, the project provided training on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) to 3,984 farmers, improving their agricultural productivity.

Allow us to introduce you to Amina*, an inspiring participant in the YESC project. With monthly sessions and support from YESC, she gained the confidence to start making and selling beautiful ‘Nakshi Katha’ to her neighbors. Witnessing a rapid growth in demand, she expanded her business and now employs seven girls and women. Amina’s monthly income ranges from 15,000 to 20,000 Taka, bringing her financial stability and social acceptance. Her future plans include educating her son, establishing a showroom for her ‘Nakshi Katha’ business, and employing more girls from her community.

Amina wholeheartedly expresses her gratitude to YESC for transforming her life through their unwavering support and guidance.

We celebrate the success stories of YESC and the transformative power of empowering youth and women for a more cohesive society. Together, we can make a difference!

#youthempowerment #socialcohesion #YESC #TDH #makingadifference

[Note: *The photos used in this post feature individuals who have given their full consent. Pseudonyms have been used to protect their privacy.]