GYCSierraLeone

13/03/2026

Global Youth Counterpart in collaboration with partners launched the First Youth Adaptation and SDG Leadership Conference in Sierrra Leone

The Youth Adaptation & SDGs Leadership Conference 2026 was a transformative two-day event held on March 10-11, 2026, at the Methodist Multipurpose Hall, CCSL Compound in Freetown. Strategically aligned with the global commemoration of International Women's Week, the conference brought together 100 participants including young leaders, policymakers, development practitioners, civil society representatives, and private sector actors from all 16 districts of Sierra Leone.

The event addressed three critical imperatives: the urgent need for climate adaptation, advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the empowerment of young women as agents of transformative change.

Key Outcomes

The conference achieved the following immediate outcomes:
•100 young leaders equipped with practical skills in climate adaptation planning, project development, and advocacy strategies
•Freetown Declaration on Youth-Led Climate Adaptation adopted and disseminated
•10 youth-led adaptation projects identified for incubation support
•National Youth Climate Adaptation Network established with governance structure

The outcomes of this conference, particularly the Freetown Declaration and the National Youth Climate Adaptation Network will continue to drive youth climate action well beyond this event, ensuring that young Sierra Leoneans remain at the forefront of sustainable development efforts.

12/03/2026

THANK YOU AND APPRECIATION MESSAGE

On behalf of the Global Youth Counterpart for Sustainable Development (GYC) Sierra Leone and our esteemed partners, the organizers of the Youth Adaptation and SDGs Leadership Conference 2026, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of this remarkable two-day conference held on March 10–11 at the Methodist Multipurpose Hall, CCSL Compound, Freetown.

We sincerely appreciate all facilitators, speakers, panelists, moderators, partners, sponsors, delegates, and participants who dedicated their time, expertise, and energy to make the conference impactful and inspiring under the theme:

“Accelerate Action: Young Women Leading Climate Action for Sustainable Development.”

Throughout the two days, participants engaged in:

Opening remarks and institutional statements from key stakeholders

Insightful presentations on climate risks, adaptation strategies, and opportunities in Sierra Leone

A dynamic panel discussion on the Gender–Climate Nexus

Breakout group sessions on sectoral adaptation priorities

Interactive networking sessions, performances, and knowledge exchange

These sessions strengthened collaboration and highlighted the critical role of young women and youth leadership in climate action and sustainable development.

We extend special appreciation to our government institutions, development partners, civil society organizations, private sector representatives, and youth leaders who shared knowledge and practical solutions that will contribute to strengthening climate resilience in Sierra Leone.

To our delegates and participants, thank you for your active engagement, thoughtful discussions, and commitment to driving climate action in your communities.

Your participation has made this conference a meaningful platform for dialogue, partnership, and youth-led solutions toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

We look forward to continued collaboration as we translate the knowledge and commitments from this conference into real action for climate resilience and sustainable development in Sierra Leone.

Thank you all for being part of this important journey.

With appreciation,
Global Youth Counterpart for Sustainable Development (GYC) Sierra Leone
Organizers – Youth Adaptation and SDGs Leadership Conference

09/03/2026

Dear Esteemed Delegate,

Warm greetings from the Youth Adaptation and SDGs Leadership Conference Secretariat.

As we prepare to welcome you tomorrow for the first National Convening on Youth Adaptation and SDGs Leadership Conference, scheduled for March 10–11, 2026, we are delighted to have you as part of this historic gathering of young leaders, innovators, and change-makers.

This conference is designed to be highly interactive, engaging, and impactful, providing a platform where young people can exchange ideas, share experiences, and collectively explore solutions that accelerate climate adaptation and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. Your presence and participation will add great value to the discussions and outcomes of this important convening.

We assure you that the stage is fully set for a productive, inspiring, and memorable experience. Our team has worked diligently to ensure a welcoming environment that encourages collaboration, learning, and meaningful networking.

As we gather, let us be reminded that:

"The youth are not only the leaders of tomorrow but the partners of today."

And as Nelson Mandela once said:
"It always seems impossible until it is done."

Your voice, ideas, and commitment are vital in shaping sustainable solutions for our communities and our nation.

We therefore encourage you to come prepared to participate actively, share boldly, and connect widely with fellow delegates and partners.

We look forward to welcoming you tomorrow at the venue and embarking together on this journey of accelerating action for sustainable development.

Safe travels and see you soon.

Warm regards,
Conference Chief Convener

12/02/2026

February 12, 2026
🖊️🖊️🖊️🖊️🖊️
GYC with funding from Plan International, Sierra Leone Youth Climate Adaptation Action (YCAA), officially kicked off today the Training Workshop on Transforming Waste to Organic Fertilizer and supply of PPEs to Participants as part of the Local Waste to Treasure in Kolleh Town Community project. This training workshop targeted selected beneficiaries, primarily women engaged in agricultural activities and backyard gardening, including youth in the Kolleh Town Community, area of Freetown, Western Area, Sierra Leone.
The workshop represents a critical first step in YAICTT/GYC’s broader initiative to convert the community’s waste crisis into a sustainable livelihood opportunity. With over 742 tons of garbage generated daily in Freetown—of which 84% is biodegradable organic waste. and only 30% properly collected, communities like Kolleh Town bear a disproportionate burden of illegal dumping, flooding, and environmental degradation. This training aims to equip participants with practical composting skills to turn organic waste into valuable fertilizer, supporting both climate adaptation and economic empowerment. A total of 50 beneficiaries were selected to participate in the training workshop. The selection process was transparent and community-driven, conducted through consultations with local leaders, youth groups, and women’s associations in Kolleh Town.

Training Objectives

The training workshop was designed to achieve the following objectives:
• Introduce participants to the concepts of climate change, waste management, and the circular economy, framing waste as a valuable resource rather than a burden.
• Equip 20 youth and 30 women with practical skills in organic waste collection, sorting, and composting technology.
• Demonstrate hands-on techniques for producing both solid compost (windrow/heap method) and liquid organic fertilizer (aerobic compost tea and leachate collection).
• Build participants’ understanding of health and safety protocols for waste handling, including the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment

The training workshop was designed to achieve the following objectives:
• Introduce participants to the concepts of climate change, waste management, and the circular economy, framing waste as a valuable resource rather than a burden.
• Equip 20 youth and 30 women with practical skills in organic waste collection, sorting, and composting technology.
• Demonstrate hands-on techniques for producing both solid compost (windrow/heap method) and liquid organic fertilizer (aerobic compost tea and leachate collection).
• Build participants’ understanding of health and safety protocols for waste handling, including the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs).
• Lay the foundation for a sustainable waste-to-value enterprise that addresses environmental degradation and youth unemployment in Kolleh Town.

11/01/2026

Abdul Karim Marah
Founder and Executive Director
Global Youth Counterpart(GYC) Sierra Leone
🖊️🖊️🖊️🖊️🖊️🖊️
#2026 Message of Hope to the Youth of Sierra Leone

My dear young change-makers,

As we enter 2026 with courage and determination, I speak to you not only as a Youth leader, but as Youth Ambassador, who believes deeply in youth potential and the future. Our generation is not just the leaders of tomorrow, we are the builders of today.

Sierra Leone is a country of youth. Nearly 40% of our nation’s population is young (ages 15–35), and together youth represent almost half of our labour force.

This demographic strength is our greatest asset, but it also carries real challenges that we must face squarely and overcome together:

Although many of us are eager to work and learn, opportunities have been limited; the majority of youth work in informal and low-paid jobs.

The formal youth unemployment rate, young people actively looking for work, is around 3.6%, which may seem low on paper but hides a wider story of underemployment, lack of relevant skills, and job mismatch across sectors.

More than half of young Sierra Leoneans live with income insecurity or in poverty, with especially strong challenges for young women and persons with disabilities.

Many young people feel pushed to risk their safety or future, through irregular migration, exploitative work, or harmful coping mechanisms, when hope seems distant or opportunities scarce.

These realities might look overwhelming but vulnerability is not your destiny.

To every young person reading this: You are powerful, capable, and essential to Sierra Leone’s future. The strength of our nation will be measured not by how few obstacles we face, but by how boldly we rise above them.

Your education matters. The skills you build, whether through school, vocational training, mentorship, or hands-on experience will give you confidence, purpose, and opportunity.

Your resilience is your superpower. Challenges are not roadblocks; they are stepping stones. Every setback teaches you something valuable, about courage, strategy, and self-belief.

Your creativity and innovation are solutions. From agriculture to digital technology, arts to entrepreneurship, young minds are leading Sierra Leone into new possibilities. The world is changing, and you are poised to lead that change.

, We Will Build

We stand at a moment of opportunity. Our Government, NGOs, private sector partners, and communities are investing in youth skills, jobs, and inclusive platforms because they know, when you thrive, Sierra Leone thrives.

So remain focused on your goals. When doors seem closed, create a window. When the path seems dark, be the light. And when others doubt what you can do, let your effort and results speak for you.

Future Starts Now

2026 is not just another year on the calendar. It is your year of persistence, growth, purpose, and achievement.

*Stay focused. Stay hopeful.* *Stay courageous*
*Your dreams are valid. Your voice matters. And your actions today will shape a stronger, brighter Sierra Leone tomorrow.*

Believe in yourself, because , we believe in you.

24/11/2025

-Sierra Leone
Thanks and Appreciation Message

Global Youth Counterpart for Sustainable Development (GYC), Siera Loene, extends its heartfelt thanks and deep appreciation to the Orphan Empowerment Society (TOES) for the recognition and honour bestowed upon the organization through the Humanitarian Good Will Award 2025, received by our Executive Director, and the Head of Programs.

This award is a significant milestone for GYC-SL and stands as a reflection of the tireless efforts, dedication, and collective commitment of our entire team. We wholeheartedly recognize and appreciate the outstanding contributions of all GYC staff and volunteers, whose professionalism, passion, and resilience have made this achievement possible. Our work in youth empowerment, climate action, peacebuilding, and sustainable development continues to transform lives and strengthen communities across Sierra Leone.

We are sincerely grateful to TOES for acknowledging our impact and for its continued efforts in supporting vulnerable children and advancing humanitarian values.

GYC accepts this honour with humility and renewed determination to deepen our programs, expand our partnerships, and deliver even greater service to the communities we serve.

15/10/2025

🌍✨ Youth Adaptation Day 2025 Sierra Leone! ✨🌍

Global Youth Counterpart for Sustainable Development (GYC), in collaboration with Sunrise Movement, Plan International Sierra Leone, and partners, successfully hosted the Youth Adaptation Day 2025 under the theme:

“NDC, Youth, and Adaptation.”

The event brought together passionate young leaders, university students, climate advocates, and key stakeholders to discuss how Sierra Leone’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) can be translated into youth-led adaptation actions across communities.

From inspiring keynote messages to interactive discussions, the day emphasized the vital role of young people in driving climate resilience, promoting innovation, and shaping inclusive climate policies.

Together, we reaffirmed our commitment to a climate-smart, youth-driven, and resilient Sierra Leone! 🌱🇸🇱

28/08/2025

As an Executive Member of the Climate Change Network (CliCNet) Sierra Leone, GYC had the opportunity, together with our sister Network on Agroecology, to convene a two-day(Aug. 26-27 2025) working session that brought together over 50 civil society organizations and community leaders.

The objective of the workshop was to strengthen the capacity of CSOs to advocate for agroecology and sustainable food systems, while also identifying gaps within Sierra Leone’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) 1.0 and 2.0 that will inform the ongoing development of NDC 3.0.

The two-day engagement concluded with the signing of a joint communiqué by all CSOs and advocates present. This communiqué will be formally presented to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, as well as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), as part of our collective commitment to shaping a more inclusive and resilient climate agenda for Sierra Leone.

26/08/2025