Who We Are
At SIKI Youth Association, our mission is to promote gender equality, create awareness on gender-based violence, and empower youth to become agents of change. Through our initiatives, we strive to build a safer and more inclusive society.
SIKI Youth Association is a non-profit organization that was established in May 2019 in response to a tragic incident that shook the community. Founded by Emmah Karanja, a third-year student at Moi University, SIKI Youth Association emerged after the violent murder of Ivy Wangeci, a medical student at the same university. The heartbreaking event and the societal response, which often sided with one gender instead of condemning violence, inspired Emmah to take action.
Emmah recognized the urgent need to raise awareness about gender-based violence and to educate people that violence is not a solution to problems. In an effort to bring about change, she embarked on a creative photo shoot story that served as a powerful statement against gender-based violence. The initiative aimed to convey the message that violence is wrong and must be stopped.
Our Background
Together we create the change!
SIKI Youth Association officially registered as an association on July 26, 2019, and later became an organization with a board of directors in April 2023. Since its establishment, SIKI Youth Association has focused on creating mental health awareness among youths in Kenya. Through their annual arts-themed projects and widespread dissemination of articles via social media, they aim to transform lives and contribute to a better society.
Recognizing the rising prevalence of mental health issues among young people, SIKI Youth Association provides basic mental health training to its members. This training, conducted by certified psychologists from various organizations, equips members with the skills to support others during difficult life situations.
SIKI Youth Association has successfully covered several themes, including mental health awareness among youths, drug and substance abuse awareness, suicide prevention, teenage pregnancy, and menstrual hygiene. Their impactful initiatives have already changed the lives of many youths, particularly during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Through their dedication, compassion, and commitment to their cause, SIKI Youth Association continues to make a positive difference in the lives of young people, striving to create a society that values gender equality and rejects violence.
Our Values
• Integrity • Hard work • Wellbeing • commitment • Authenticity • Creativity
Mission
To be a flagship of positive change in our society through youth involvement in creating mental health awareness.
Vision
To empower Kenyan youth through the use of creativity and arts, talks, mentorship programs for mental health awareness, and self-development, with an aim of making the society a better place. The association is non-profit-making and non-political.
Our Team
They All Joined Us!
Meet our dedicated team of passionate individuals who work tirelessly to drive our mission forward. With diverse backgrounds and expertise, we are united by our commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of young people.
Emmah Karanja
Founder
Collins Wanjala
Treasurer
Asha Ahmed
Program coordinator
Dennis Karanja
Psychologist
Mark Akama
Legal advisor
OBJECTIVES
- To create mental health awareness among the youth
- To nurture and discover talents among the youths
- To empower youths by availing opportunities to learn how to build their future
- To organize forums for discussions, talent search events, and guest speakers to educate the youth on how to deal with life difficult situations
- To mentor young youths and children by engaging them in forums where they can use arts to communicate
- To enhance creativity and innovation among youths
- To foster the welfare of all youths in Kenya
How can you get involved with SIKI Youth Association?
We encourage individuals who share our vision and passion to join us in creating a better society. You can get involved by participating in our awareness campaigns, volunteering your time and skills, or contributing to our initiatives. Reach out to us through our contact page, and we'll guide you on how you can make a difference with SIKI Youth Association.