Русский 
Română 
Description
The “Youth Empowerment and Leadership Initiative (YELI)” project is about truly transforming young people from the South Development Region of the Republic of Moldova into authentic leaders, capable of generating positive change in their communities.
Through interactive workshops, specialized mentorship, and active involvement in developing and implementing their own initiatives, young people gain the confidence, skills, and motivation needed to meaningfully influence the future of their communities.
YELI builds a strong bridge between young people's ambitions and real achievements, contributing to the development of a generation of engaged leaders who are aware of their power to drive lasting change.
Objectives
Develop leadership and civic engagement skills for at least 25 young people.
Increase active youth participation in community development and local decision-making processes.
Implement and support concrete community initiatives in two selected communities.
Create a strong regional network of young leaders.
Methodology
The YELI project methodology combines interactive and practical elements—from intensive leadership training and personalized mentorship to the concrete development and implementation of community initiatives. Each stage is designed to facilitate the acquisition of essential skills, promote active collaboration, and ensure tangible and sustainable results within communities.
1
Transparent Selection
A public call and rigorous evaluation of applications to identify young leaders with high potential.
2
Leadership Lab
An intensive four-day event where participants develop their skills through practical exercises, teamwork, and the creation of community action plans.
3
Competition and Mentorship
Participants present their community initiatives to a jury. Two selected action plans receive mentorship and financial support for implementation.
4
Financial Support
Provided for equipping youth spaces with furniture and IT equipment, as well as organizing a training session on a topic selected by the youth within their action plans.
5
Mentorship for Action Plan Improvement
Participants receive personalized guidance to refine and adapt their action plans to the specific needs of their communities.
6
Implementation of Community Action Plans
Improved action plans are implemented in the selected communities, with active youth involvement and ongoing mentor support.
7
Final Presentation Event
An event dedicated to showcasing the results, lessons learned, and future plans of the participating teams.
8
Final Report Publication
Development and dissemination of a detailed report on outcomes, best practices, and recommendations for future initiatives.
What we offer
Intensive and hands-on training in leadership and community development.
Personalized mentorship for the implementation of community initiatives.
Financial and logistical resources for the implementation of action plans.
Creation and equipping of youth-dedicated spaces with modern furniture and equipment.
An opportunity for young people to mobilize and engage their peers in their communities by practically applying the knowledge gained during the lab.
Access to networks of young leaders and ongoing development opportunities.
Areas of involvement
1
Leadership and Personal Development
Supporting the personal and professional growth of young people to become authentic leaders in their communities.
2
Civic and Democratic Participation
Encouraging young people to become active citizens engaged in local decision-making processes, positively influencing community development.
3
Community Development and Infrastructure
Initiating and carrying out concrete actions to develop community infrastructure, creating youth-dedicated spaces and fostering civic engagement.
4
Mentorship and Non-Formal Education
Providing personalized support and practical tools for developing action plans and youth-led initiatives.
5
Youth Mobilization
Supporting young leaders to mobilize and inspire their peers for active involvement in community life.
Beneficiaries
Young people aged 16 to 30 from the South Development Region, interested in becoming active and engaged leaders in their community’s development.
Expected results
A leadership lab successfully conducted.
1
At least 25 young people trained in leadership and community engagement skills.
2
5 community action plans developed.
3
2 plans selected and effectively implemented with financial and active mentorship support.
4
Two youth-dedicated spaces fully equipped with furniture and IT equipment.
5
Mobilization of over 180 local community members in activities.
6
Implementation of 10 community activities, 5 in each selected locality.
7
Creation of a regional network of young leaders capable of collaborating and initiating new community projects.
8
Impact and testimonials
Chiosea Dmitrii, Mayor of Tomai
I noticed a genuine transformation in our community dynamics. Young people bring energy, ideas, and a willingness to take responsibility, and their collaboration with the authorities leads to real and sustainable change.
Stanislav Lozan, director of “Mihai Eminescu” Theoretical High School, Leova
The YELI project motivated students to become more active, and the creation of a youth space is one of its clear outcomes. Young people who get involved today grow into responsible adults tomorrow. They learn to collaborate, create useful things, and take care of shared spaces.
Kirill Karabadzhak, Deputy Mayor of Tomai
I was glad to witness the transformation of the young people in our village. I believe their involvement is key to the sustainable development of the community, and the YELI project provided the necessary space for them to express themselves, organize, and actively contribute. When young people are heard and supported, they become drivers of sustainable community growth.
Valentina Maximiciuc, YELI participant, member of the “Hiperion” team, Leova
Participating in the project changed the way I viewed civic engagement, and looking ahead, I want to remain active. I plan to collaborate with local NGOs and organize a volunteer club at my high school to share what I’ve learned with my peers.
Nicoli Mîndruță, YELI participant, member of the “Hiperion” team, Leova
This project showed me that my voice truly matters. I realized that even if my contribution seems small, if I am genuinely involved, I can create real change around me.
Maxim Carabadjac, project participant, member of the “Sade-gaz” team, Tomai
I learned how to plan and organize events. I gained the confidence to propose concrete initiatives, such as setting up a relaxation area near the stadium. I wholeheartedly recommend it! It’s an experience that helps you grow, motivates you, and gives you the courage to believe that you can truly make a difference.
Partners and Funders
This program is implemented by the Regional Center for Community Development with the support of:
