Across the island of Mauritius, poverty and inequality continue to affect thousands of families despite the country’s strong economy and global reputation as a model of stability and development. Behind the postcard-perfect beaches and expanding service industry, deep social and economic disparities remain. While the national poverty rate has decreased over the years, many Mauritians still struggle with limited access to education, unemployment, and rising living costs. Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have become essential in addressing these inequalities, complementing government efforts and ensuring that vulnerable communities are not forgotten. Among the most dynamic and visible NGOs on the island is YUVA (Youth United in Voluntary Action)—a movement led by young Mauritians who believe that social change begins with empowerment and education.

The social landscape of Mauritius

Mauritius has transitioned impressively from a low-income to an upper-middle-income economy, diversifying from sugar production into tourism, finance, and technology. Yet, this progress has not benefited everyone equally. Certain urban and rural pockets still experience persistent poverty. Many families depend on unstable employment, while access to quality education and healthcare remains uneven.

Unemployment among young people is a particularly serious issue. Despite being well-educated, many young Mauritians struggle to find meaningful work that matches their qualifications. This leads to frustration, underemployment, and in some cases, social isolation. Women in disadvantaged communities also face barriers to economic independence due to gender inequality and cultural expectations. These factors combine to create cycles of hardship that are difficult to escape without targeted support.

It is within this context that NGOs like YUVA step in—not to replace government structures, but to strengthen them by providing direct, practical, and community-centred solutions.

YUVA’s mission: Empowering communities through education and action

Founded in 2015, YUVA was established with a simple but ambitious vision: to unite young people in voluntary action and social service. The organisation works across Mauritius to empower youth, families, and vulnerable groups through programmes that promote education, leadership, and social inclusion.

YUVA’s activities are guided by three core principles: empowerment, participation, and sustainability. The organisation believes that lasting change happens when people are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to improve their own circumstances.

1. Education and academic support

YUVA runs various educational programmes aimed at children and young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. Its School Support Programme provides free tutoring and mentorship to help students who struggle academically due to financial hardship or lack of resources. Through these initiatives, YUVA ensures that children are not left behind because of their family’s income level.

2. Skills development and youth employment

Recognising that education alone is not enough, YUVA also focuses on skills development and entrepreneurship. Training workshops equip young people with practical and digital skills, preparing them for a modern job market. The organisation collaborates with businesses, mentors, and community leaders to support youth entrepreneurship, encouraging young Mauritians to create their own opportunities and contribute to the local economy.

3. Community outreach and social assistance

Poverty affects more than just income—it impacts health, family life, and social participation. YUVA’s outreach projects address immediate needs such as food insecurity and healthcare access while also promoting long-term wellbeing. The organisation regularly organises food drives, distributes essential items to low-income families, and supports social awareness campaigns on topics like gender-based violence, child protection, and mental health.

4. Digital literacy and inclusion

In an increasingly digital world, access to technology determines access to opportunity. YUVA’s Digital Literacy Programme helps bridge the gap by teaching computer and internet skills to youth and adults who lack them. This initiative opens new paths for learning and employment, particularly for people in remote or underserved regions of Mauritius.

Building partnerships for greater impact

YUVA’s success lies not only in its direct action but also in its collaborative approach. The organisation works closely with government ministries, local authorities, schools, universities, and private-sector partners to create sustainable impact. By aligning community-level interventions with national goals, YUVA ensures that its projects contribute to Mauritius’s broader development priorities, including those linked to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The NGO also plays a key role in policy dialogue and advocacy. Its members participate in national and international forums on youth development, social justice, and human rights, sharing experiences from Mauritius and learning from global practices. These partnerships have helped YUVA grow from a small youth organisation into one of the country’s most recognised civil society actors.

Measurable impact and growing influence

Over the years, YUVA’s work has reached thousands of beneficiaries across Mauritius. From supporting students and families to training young leaders and entrepreneurs, the organisation’s initiatives have made a tangible difference in reducing inequality and promoting inclusion.

YUVA’s approach combines practical assistance with long-term empowerment. Instead of offering temporary relief, it focuses on capacity building—helping people gain the tools and confidence to improve their circumstances independently. This sustainable model has earned YUVA both local and international recognition for its contribution to social development and poverty reduction.

What sets YUVA apart is its adaptability. Whether responding to new economic challenges, the digital divide, or shifting social dynamics, the organisation continuously evolves to meet community needs. Its emphasis on youth leadership ensures that its projects remain relevant, innovative, and grounded in the realities of Mauritian society.

The continuing fight against inequality

While Mauritius continues to progress economically, the fight against poverty and inequality remains far from over. The work of NGOs like YUVA demonstrates that addressing social imbalance requires more than policy reforms—it demands compassion, commitment, and collaboration at every level of society.

By empowering young people, strengthening families, and supporting community resilience, YUVA is helping to build a fairer, more inclusive Mauritius—one where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of background or circumstance.

Tereza Röslerová – Communications Officer