Youth Initiative for Sustainable Human Development in Africa (YiSHDA) is a youth-led, non-governmental organization established in 2013 in Nigeria, dedicated to advancing sustainable development through innovative, inclusive, and community-driven approaches. YiSHDA focuses on empowering young people and marginalized populations by providing opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, and economic participation.
Operating across Bauchi, Nasarawa, Kaduna States, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), with interventions extending to over 16 states in Northern Nigeria, YiSHDA has built a strong reputation as a trusted development partner. The organization collaborates with local communities, government institutions, and international stakeholders to design and implement impactful programs that address the root causes of poverty, inequality, and unemployment.
YiSHDA adopts a holistic, systems-based approach to development, integrating education, health, gender equality, and economic empowerment. Its community-led model ensures that beneficiaries actively participate in the design, implementation, and evaluation of programs, fostering ownership, sustainability, and long-term impact. The organization also emphasizes evidence-based programming, supported by strong Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) systems.
Key program areas include digital literacy and ICT training through the Comprehensive Digital Information Program (C-DIP), Media and Information Literacy (MIL), youth entrepreneurship and livelihoods under the Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Program (YEEP), public library strengthening initiatives, and sexual and reproductive health interventions, including menstrual hygiene management.
YiSHDA is guided by a committed Board of Trustees that provides strategic oversight and ensures accountability and transparency. Its team comprises experienced professionals and dedicated volunteers with expertise in community development, education, health, and youth engagement.
Through its integrated programs and partnerships, YiSHDA continues to equip young people with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities needed to drive sustainable human development and create meaningful impact in their communities.
We envision a future in which young people are actively contributing to the sustainable development of Africa.
We educate and inspire young people by building their capacity for leadership skills and responsibility, and through training, close existing knowledge gaps that hinder youths’ attainment of sustainable development goals.