Programs
Together we can change the world
OUR PROJECTS
Empowering marginalized communities in flood-affected areas of Punjab, Pakistan
End Water Poverty 2023
In flood-affected areas of Punjab, Pakistan, Youth Advocacy Council (YAC) is embarking on a transformative initiative, generously funded by End Water Poverty. Our project aims to empower marginalized communities by fostering rights awareness, advocacy, and improving access to safe water and sanitation services. Operating in the broader context of Pakistan, where significant challenges such as a large youth population, gender disparities, education gaps, and healthcare limitations persist, YAC’s specific focus aligns with addressing the unique needs of marginalized groups. This initiative will target specific human rights issues, including youth rights, gender equality, social justice, and human rights advocacy, with a heightened emphasis on the flood-affected areas of Kasur District. YAC’s overarching aim is to empower marginalized communities to claim their rights, achieved through enhancing awareness, building advocacy capacity, and improving access to essential services resilient to flood emergencies. By adopting a holistic approach, YAC endeavors to overcome challenges, empower communities, and create a supportive environment where the rights to water and sanitation are recognized and upheld, even in the face of natural disasters. The project will include rights awareness workshops, advocacy training, the establishment of community-based advocacy groups, advocacy campaigns, and comprehensive documentation and reporting. Together with End Water Poverty, we aim to make a lasting impact on the lives of those most in need.
Relief Aid Distribution Project, 2022
Self Help Based and local Philanthropists
The Relief Aid Distribution Project in Pakistan was initiated in 2022 to provide aid to those affected by natural disasters, specifically floods. The project was primarily self-help-based, with local philanthropists and donors providing the necessary resources and funds. The aim was to ensure that relief supplies reached those who needed them the most in a fair and efficient manner. The project involved several activities, including the collection of donations from the public such as food, water, and clothing, which were then sorted and transported to the affected areas.
To ensure that aid was easily accessible to those in need, distribution centers were set up in strategic locations. However, one of the significant challenges faced by the project was the limited infrastructure and resources available in the affected areas. As a result, the project had to rely heavily on the expertise and resources of local philanthropists and donors to ensure that aid was distributed efficiently. Coordination between different organizations and agencies was also crucial to the success of the project. Therefore, the project team worked closely with local NGOs, volunteer groups, and government agencies to ensure that aid was distributed fairly and efficiently.
Despite these challenges, the Relief Aid Distribution Project in Pakistan was a success, with relief supplies reaching those who needed them the most. The project demonstrated the importance of self-help-based initiatives and local philanthropists and donors in providing aid during natural disasters. It also highlighted the importance of coordination between different organizations and agencies in ensuring that aid is distributed efficiently and fairly.
The project was a testament to the resilience and generosity of the people of Pakistan. By working together, the project team, local philanthropists, donors, and various organizations and agencies successfully provided relief aid to those affected by natural disasters. The project’s success showed that even in challenging circumstances, people can come together and make a significant impact by collaborating and utilizing available resources effectively. The Relief Aid Distribution Project in Pakistan serves as an excellent example of what can be achieved through a collective effort towards a common goal.
Responsive Activism and mental health: supporting frontline women and trans human rights defenders in Punjab and KP, 2022
Norwegian Human Rights Fund
The project “Responsive Activism and mental health: supporting frontline women and trans human rights defenders in Punjab and KP, 2022” aimed to provide mental health and wellbeing support to Women and Transgender Human Rights Defenders (TWHRDs) and youth led CSOs in Lahore (Punjab) and Peshawar (KP), Pakistan. These individuals often face persecution and violence and have limited access to mental health resources and support, making this project crucial to improving their wellbeing.
The project implemented several activities to achieve its goals. Firstly, research was conducted to understand the mental health needs of TWHRDs in Punjab and KP, which helped to identify specific challenges faced by this community and inform the development of appropriate interventions. Secondly, a documentary was produced to raise awareness about the challenges TWHRDs face and promote understanding and empathy among the public.
Thirdly, a developmental health guidebook was developed for youth-led CSOs, providing information and resources to promote mental health and wellbeing. Fourthly, a digital platform was built to create a supportive network for TWHRDs to connect, share resources, and access support. Fifthly, young-CSOs and their leaders were engaged to improve their resilience and equip them with the necessary tools to support their mental health and wellbeing. Finally, a joint learning and protective mechanism was initiated, and a coalition was built to strengthen the protection of TWHRDs.
Overall, this project played a crucial role in providing much-needed support to TWHRDs in Punjab and KP, addressing a critical gap in mental health resources and support for this community. By improving the resilience and wellbeing of TWHRDs and youth-led CSOs, the project helped them continue their important work in promoting gender and justice. Additionally, the project contributed to the development of a supportive community and network that will continue to provide ongoing support to TWHRDs in Pakistan. This project was a significant step towards improving mental health and wellbeing support for vulnerable communities in Pakistan, ultimately contributing to a more just and equitable society.
Enabling the access of transgender persons to justice and human rights in Punjab (Pakistan) 2022
Taiwan Foundation for Democracy
The project titled “Enabling the access of transgender persons to justice and human rights in Punjab (Pakistan)” is a timely and critical initiative aimed at addressing the challenges that transgender persons face in accessing justice and basic human rights. This project is implemented in different districts of Punjab, Pakistan, and it seeks to benefit all transgender persons by enabling their access to justice and basic rights. In this essay, we will briefly discuss the rationale behind the project, its objectives, and its potential impact on the lives of transgender persons in Punjab.
The rationale behind the project is the systemic discrimination and marginalization of transgender persons in Pakistan, which hinders their access to justice and basic human rights. Transgender persons in Pakistan are often subjected to harassment, violence, and discrimination, and they face significant barriers in accessing justice and basic rights. The project is designed to address these issues by promoting and protecting the human rights of transgender persons through a range of strategies. These strategies include providing free legal aid and guidance, empowering transgender leaders to advocate for their rights, and sensitizing police officials to provide timely support to trans-persons.
The primary objective of the project is to enable access to justice and basic human rights for transgender persons in Punjab. The project achieves this objective by engaging Free Legal Aid Committees (FLAC) notified by the Punjab Bar Council, which provide free legal aid/guidance to victims of human rights violations. The FLAC also aims to increase awareness of the legal rights of transgender persons and promote access to justice for marginalized communities. The project also empowers transgender leaders to advocate for their rights by providing them with training and capacity-building opportunities.
The project’s impact on the lives of transgender persons in Punjab is significant. By enabling their access to justice and basic rights, the project seeks to protect them from all types of abuses, exploitation, and violence. The project also aims to reduce stigma and discrimination against transgender persons by sensitizing police officials and promoting awareness of the legal rights of trans-persons. Through these initiatives, the project will help to promote a more inclusive and equitable society that values diversity and respects the human rights of all individuals.
In conclusion, the project titled “Enabling the access of transgender persons to justice and human rights in Punjab (Pakistan)” is a crucial initiative that aims to address the challenges faced by transgender persons in accessing justice and basic human rights. The project’s strategies, such as providing free legal aid/guidance, empowering transgender leaders, and sensitizing police officials, are well-conceived and will have a significant impact on the lives of transgender persons in Punjab. The project’s success will depend on its effective implementation, which requires the commitment and cooperation of all stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, and the transgender community. Ultimately, the success of the project will be measured by its impact on the lives of transgender persons in Punjab, and it is hoped that it will serve as a model for other
initiatives aimed at promoting and protecting the human rights of marginalized communities worldwide.
Upholding and defending basic human rights of transgender Communities by engaging young lawyers in Punjab province, 2021
Taiwan Foundation for Democracy
The project “Upholding and Defending Basic Human Rights of Transgender Communities by Engaging Young Lawyers in Punjab Province” seeks to promote the rights of transgender persons in Pakistan, who face multiple forms of discrimination, marginalization, and violence. The project adopts a comprehensive approach that involves building the capacity of young lawyers, empowering transgender persons, sensitizing the general public and service delivery institutions, media, religious leaders, and youth, and establishing Free Legal Aid Committees across two divisions in Punjab.
The first objective of the project is to build the capacity of young lawyers by providing them with training on transgender rights and legal frameworks. This will equip young lawyers with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide legal aid services to transgender persons and fight for their rights.
The second objective of the project is to empower transgender persons by providing them with training and digital advocacy skills. This will enable them to advocate for their rights, access legal aid services, and navigate the legal system, and amplify their voices to challenge stigma and demand equal rights.
The third objective of the project is to sensitize the general public and service delivery institutions, media, religious leaders, and youth to uphold transgender rights. This will be achieved through community-based sensitization campaigns, workshops, and training sessions that raise awareness about the challenges faced by transgender persons and promote their rights.
The fourth objective of the project is to establish Free Legal Aid Committees across two divisions in Punjab, which will provide legal aid services to transgender persons and fight cases of discrimination or violence against them. The committees will work to ensure the safety of transgender persons and reduce gender-based discrimination across selected districts in Pakistan.
The project’s overall goal is to promote the rights of transgender persons in Pakistan and reduce discrimination and violence against them. By addressing capacity-building, empowerment, sensitization, and legal aid provision, the project aims to enable transgender persons to live with dignity and respect. The project’s multi-faceted approach recognizes the need for systemic change and addresses various issues related to the promotion of transgender rights.
Combating HIV/AIDS and Transphobic Stigmas in Punjab and KP, 2020
Gilead Sciences Inc. United States
The Youth Advocacy Council Pakistan (YAC) embarked on a project titled “Combating HIV/AIDS and Transphobic Stigmas in Punjab and KP, 2020” with support from Gilead Sciences Inc. United States. The project aimed to address the HIV/AIDS epidemic among the transgender community in selected districts in Pakistan by providing training, advocacy, and massive campaigning. It also sought to sensitize the public, service delivery institutions, media, religious leaders, and youth for Trans-health and Rights. The project used participatory learning and an inclusive AI-supported TransHelp app and web portal to enable transgender individuals to access better health facilities, ensure their safety, and reduce transphobic stigmas.
The project’s activities included capacity building of the transgender community, including training on HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and care. Advocacy was also carried out at the policy and legislative levels to ensure that the rights and needs of the transgender community were met. This included developing policy briefs and engaging with policymakers to influence policy decisions. The project developed a massive awareness campaign on HIV/AIDS and transphobia through print, electronic, and social media.
One of the innovative approaches that the project used was the development of an AI-supported TransHelp app and web portal. The app provided information and access to healthcare services, including HIV testing and treatment, as well as psychosocial support services. The portal also enabled the transgender community to access legal aid, financial services, and vocational training. The app and portal were developed through participatory learning, engaging the transgender community in the development process to ensure that it was user-friendly and met their needs.
The YAC project had significant impacts on the transgender community in the selected districts in Punjab and KP. It improved access to healthcare services, reduced stigma and discrimination, and enhanced the social and economic empowerment of the transgender community. The AI-supported TransHelp app and web portal provided a platform for the community to access vital information and services, which had a lasting impact on their health and wellbeing. The project also contributed to the reduction of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Pakistan and improved the overall health outcomes of the transgender community.
In conclusion, the YAC project titled “Combating HIV/AIDS and Transphobic Stigmas in Punjab and KP, 2020” was a comprehensive approach to addressing the issue of HIV/AIDS and transphobia among the transgender community in selected districts in Pakistan. The project used a multi-pronged approach, including capacity building, advocacy, and massive campaigning, to achieve its objectives. The development of an AI-supported TransHelp app and web portal was an innovative approach that enabled the transgender community to access vital information and services. The project’s impact was far-reaching, improving the health and wellbeing of the transgender community and contributing to the reduction of the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Youth Leadership Development, 2017-18
Good Thinkers Organization, Pakistan
The Youth Advocacy Council Pakistan (YAC) collaborated with the Good Thinkers Organization (GTO) to launch the Youth Leadership Development program in 2017, aimed at empowering Pakistani youth and equipping them with the necessary leadership and creative skills to tackle the challenges they face. The program provided specialized training and mentorship to over 100 young people from Lahore and Kasur, with a focus on developing their soft skills and leveraging their intellect and creativity to address the issues of the 21st century.
The Youth Leadership
Development program was a flagship initiative of YAC, emphasizing the
development of leadership skills among young people in Pakistan. It aimed to
equip them with tools and resources to take charge of their lives, realize
their potential, and become leaders in their communities. The program offered a
range of training, including communication, team-building, problem-solving, and
decision-making skills, providing young people with the necessary skills for
effective leadership.
The program provided
experiential learning opportunities to young people, exposing them to real-world
challenges and situations, allowing them to develop their problem-solving and
decision-making skills. GTO was a key partner in providing experiential
learning opportunities to over 100 young people from Lahore and Kasur, enabling
them to utilize their intellect and creativity to address the challenges of the
21st century.
Mentorship was another vital
component of the Youth Leadership Development program, which provided young
people with the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and leaders
in their respective fields. The mentors offered guidance and support, helping
young people navigate challenges, and providing them with the necessary tools
and resources for success.
The Youth Leadership
Development program’s focus on youth empowerment was essential for Pakistan,
where the youth make up a significant proportion of the population. Equipping
young people with leadership skills and providing them with opportunities to apply
their knowledge and creativity is vital for sustainable development. The
program has already produced hundreds of young leaders who are making a
positive impact in their communities.
In conclusion, the Youth
Leadership Development program by YAC, in collaboration with GTO, was a crucial
initiative that equipped Pakistani youth with the necessary tools, resources,
and opportunities to become leaders in their communities. The program’s
emphasis on soft skills development, experiential learning opportunities, and
mentorship was essential for empowering young people and preparing them for the
challenges of the 21st century. The success of the program is evident in the
hundreds of young leaders who have benefitted from it and are making a positive
impact in their communities.
Developing Effective School & Community-led WASH Programming, 2016
Good Thinkers Organization and KOIC
The Youth Advocacy Council (YAC)
launched the “Developing Effective School & Community-led WASH
Programming” project in 2016 to tackle water, sanitation, and hygiene
(WASH) issues in the Mandi Bahuddin and Kasur districts of Punjab, Pakistan.
The project was funded by the Good Thinkers Organization and the Korean
International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). Its objective was to train 300 young
people in water conservation, maternal and child health, sanitation, hygienic
practices, and environmental protection.
The project utilized a
community-led approach to address the lack of access to safe water and
sanitation facilities in the target areas. YAC engaged and mobilized the
communities to establish 25 WASH clubs, comprising schools, colleges, and
community members. The clubs aimed to create awareness and promote behavior
change towards better hygiene practices. Capacity-building training,
awareness-raising sessions, and community mobilization activities were
conducted to equip the youth with the necessary skills and knowledge.
As a result of the project, 300
youth were trained in developing effective WASH programming in schools and
communities, including behavior change communication strategies. The WASH clubs
established during the project are still active, promoting and implementing
sustainable WASH initiatives. The partnerships established with the relevant
government departments ensured the sustainability and ownership of the
initiatives.
The project was successful, as
demonstrated by the increase in access to safe water and improved sanitation
facilities in the target communities. The project’s success was recognized by
the Good Thinkers Organization, which awarded YAC the “Best Youth-Led
Community Development Project” award in 2017.
In conclusion, the YAC’s
“Developing Effective School & Community-led WASH Programming”
project was a community-led initiative that successfully addressed the lack of
access to safe water and sanitation facilities in the target areas. The project
empowered 300 youth and established 25 WASH clubs that are still active today.
The partnerships with government departments ensured the sustainability and
ownership of the initiatives, making it a successful and impactful initiative.
Youth For Human & Democratic Rights, 2015-17
Good Thinkers Organization, Pakistan
The Youth Advocacy Council’s project “Youth For Human & Democratic Rights” successfully promoted human and democratic rights and rule of law in Kasur district, Punjab. The project aimed to engage marginalized communities, such as the transgender community, children, and minorities, and educate them about their rights and responsibilities. The project was implemented in collaboration with the Good Thinkers Organization, and 60 youth and two youth-led groups participated in its activities. The project included various activities such as conducting training sessions, seminars, and workshops on human rights, democratic practices, and rule of law for the youth and marginalized communities. The project also organized advocacy campaigns and public awareness sessions to educate the general public about their human and democratic rights. The project had a positive impact on the community, as it fostered good governance, promoted democratic practices, and streamlined the rule of law in the district. The project’s activities helped to create awareness and develop the capacity of young people and marginalized communities, which empowered them to take a more active role in promoting and protecting human and democratic rights. Through the project, the Youth Advocacy Council was able to promote the culture of human rights and democratic practices in the Kasur district, and encourage young people to participate in democratic processes. The project helped to raise awareness among the public about the importance of human and democratic rights, and the responsibility of the government to protect and uphold these rights. Overall, the “Youth For Human & Democratic Rights” project was a successful initiative by Youth Advocacy Council and the Good Thinkers Organization, which contributed to the development of a more just and democratic society in Kasur district, Punjab.