In Mauritius, an island nation renowned for its diversity and dynamism, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) play a vital role in ensuring that no one is left behind. While the country enjoys stability and steady economic growth, many communities still face challenges such as poverty, inequality, limited opportunities for youth, and environmental concerns. NGOs fill this gap by offering people-centred solutions that respond directly to community needs.

Among these, YUVA Mauritius has emerged as a model of how youth-led volunteerism can bring about lasting social change. Since its establishment in 2015, YUVA has become one of the country’s most active and recognised NGOs, demonstrating that meaningful transformation begins when young people take ownership of their future.

The Role of NGOs in Mauritius

Mauritius has a vibrant civil society, with hundreds of NGOs addressing issues from education and health to gender equality and environmental sustainability. These organisations provide services and advocacy that complement government policies, often reaching vulnerable groups more effectively and with greater flexibility.

NGOs are not bound by bureaucracy in the same way that state institutions are, which allows them to innovate, pilot new approaches, and respond rapidly to emerging problems. They also help amplify the voices of people who are often marginalised in mainstream decision-making.

The YUVA Mauritius Model

At the heart of YUVA’s work is its belief in the power of young people. Its very name—Youth United in Voluntary Action—reflects its commitment to mobilising youth as leaders, change-makers, and partners in national development. The organisation’s approach is holistic, spanning four main areas:

1. Education

Education is one of the most effective tools to break the cycle of poverty. YUVA supports children from disadvantaged backgrounds by providing school supplies, scholarships, and after-school tutoring. These initiatives ensure that financial hardship does not prevent young people from reaching their full academic potential.

2. Employment

With youth unemployment a concern in Mauritius, YUVA equips young people with the skills they need to succeed in the job market. Training workshops, CV clinics, interview preparation, and vocational programmes all contribute to bridging the gap between education and employment.

3. Empowerment

Beyond academics and employment, YUVA believes in nurturing leadership and confidence. Its empowerment programmes include leadership training, mentoring, and opportunities for young people to run their own community projects. This strengthens not only individual potential but also collective resilience.

4. Health and Well-being

From promoting healthy lifestyles to raising awareness on mental health, YUVA addresses the overall well-being of young people. Through workshops and community campaigns, the organisation highlights the importance of both physical and mental health for a thriving society.

Examples of YUVA’s Impact

YUVA’s vision becomes real through its wide range of programmes and activities. Some recent initiatives include:

• Women’s Empowerment Workshops – Training home-based workers and women entrepreneurs to strengthen their skills in financial literacy, digital tools, and business development.
• STEM for Girls – Introducing young girls to robotics and science, challenging gender barriers in education and sparking interest in careers traditionally dominated by men.
• Digital Safety Awareness – Partnering with stakeholders to educate children and families on online safety, protecting against cyberbullying and online exploitation.
• Environmental Engagement – Participating in tree planting and awareness campaigns on World Environment Day, promoting a culture of ecological responsibility.
• Mental Health Advocacy – Hosting and contributing to conferences that highlight the importance of women’s mental health and community support systems.

Each initiative reflects YUVA’s ability to identify pressing issues, design tailored responses, and empower individuals to take part in the solution.

Collaboration and Recognition

YUVA works closely with government ministries, international agencies, the private sector, and grassroots partners. This collaborative spirit ensures that its programmes are sustainable, scalable, and relevant to the needs of Mauritian society.

The organisation’s commitment to sustainable practices was recognised internationally when it received the “NGO with Most Sustainable Practices” award at the World Sustainability Forum in 2024. This accolade highlights YUVA’s success in combining youth leadership with innovation in education, environment, health, and community empowerment.

Why YUVA’s Approach Works

There are several reasons why the YUVA model is particularly effective in Mauritius:

• Youth-led: Programmes are designed and driven by young people, making them relatable and forward-thinking.
• Community-based: Activities are rooted in the real needs of local communities rather than imposed from above.
• Holistic: By linking education, employment, empowerment, and health, YUVA addresses challenges in an interconnected way.
• Collaborative: Partnerships amplify reach and impact, ensuring resources are used effectively.

This combination of principles ensures that YUVA’s efforts are not just short-term fixes but long-term investments in human potential.

A Brighter Future for Mauritius

As Mauritius continues to develop, NGOs will remain crucial in promoting inclusion, equality, and sustainability. YUVA has shown that when young people are given the tools, support, and platform to lead, they can transform not only their own lives but also the lives of countless others.

The YUVA Mauritius model demonstrates how youth volunteerism, combined with education and empowerment, can shape a nation’s future. It is a reminder that lasting progress is built not solely by policies, but by people—especially when they are united in voluntary action.

Tereza Röslerová, Caritas College Olomouc – Communications Officer