News and Events

Safe Youth Advocacy Initiative – Kilinochchi

The Safe Youth Advocacy Group of CSOF Kilinochchi successfully led a dynamic, community-driven advocacy initiative focused on addressing two critical social issues: drug abuse and gender-based violence. Guided by the vision, “Smart youth shape a world where women live free from violence,” the initiative brought together young leaders and community members to promote awareness, dialogue, and collective action.

The one-day programme featured a series of impactful and engaging activities, including a friendly cricket match, an awareness walk, and an interactive photo booth campaign. These activities created inclusive spaces for reflection and encouraged active community participation in addressing pressing social challenges.

The friendly cricket match brought together 30 youth participants, highlighting the role of sports in fostering teamwork, discipline, and a shared commitment to a drug-free lifestyle. The awareness walk further strengthened community engagement, while funds raised during the activity were directed towards supporting rehabilitation efforts for individuals recovering from drug addiction.

A creatively designed photo booth served as a vibrant platform for advocacy, enabling participants to share messages and amplify the campaign’s reach through social media. This digital engagement significantly extended the initiative’s visibility beyond the immediate event.

In total, the programme directly engaged 246 participants, including 93 men and 153 women, with 30 youth champions actively leading the activities. The initiative also reached an estimated indirect audience of over 1,000 individuals, demonstrating the strong influence of community-led advocacy in driving social change.

The event concluded with a collective pledge, where participants reaffirmed their commitment to building a future free from drugs and gender-based violence. The initiative received positive feedback from stakeholders, with the District Rural Development Officer (RDO) of Kilinochchi noting it as “an innovative way to create awareness and increase community engagement.” A participating student and sports champion also shared that the experience was “inspiring and engaging,” emphasizing continued youth advocacy for protection and wellbeing.

This initiative reflects the growing momentum of youth-led action in Kilinochchi, demonstrating how coordinated community efforts can contribute to long-term social transformation and a safer, healthier future.