GenerationRise
young people, including adolescents and young adults, face significant barriers in accessing comprehensive SRHR information and services. These barriers often include social stigma, lack of knowledge, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and policy limitations. As a result, young people may encounter difficulties in making informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health, potentially leading to negative health outcomes, unwanted pregnancies, and increased vulnerability to sexually transmitted infections.
Scale of the Problem:
Global Impact: The challenge of limited access to SRHR information and services is a global issue that affects young people in both developed and developing countries. It's a problem of immense scale, as millions of young people worldwide require accurate information and support to make informed choices about their SRHR.
Magnitude: According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), approximately 1.8 billion young people are between the ages of 10 and 24. These young people make up a significant portion of the global population, and many of them face barriers to accessing SRHR information and services.
Health Outcomes: Limited access to SRHR information and services contributes to a range of negative health outcomes, including a high rate of unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and increased vulnerability to sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. Young people are disproportionately affected by these outcomes.
Gender Disparities: The problem is often compounded by gender disparities, as young women and girls may face additional challenges in accessing SRHR services and information, making them more vulnerable to negative health outcomes.
Factors Contributing to the Problem:
Several factors contribute to the problem of limited access to SRHR information and services for young people, including:
Stigma and Taboos: Cultural and societal stigma surrounding discussions of sex and reproductive health can create an environment of silence and shame, making it difficult for young people to seek information and services.
Inadequate Education: Many educational systems do not provide comprehensive SRHR education, leaving young people without the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions.
Healthcare Infrastructure: Inadequate healthcare infrastructure, including a lack of youth-friendly services, can make it challenging for young people to access the care they need.
Policy Limitations: Legal and policy restrictions can hinder young people's access to contraceptives, sexual health services, and comprehensive SRHR information.
Economic Barriers: Economic constraints can limit young people's ability to seek healthcare and services, particularly in regions with limited financial resources.
"GenerationRise" is a comprehensive initiative aimed at improving young people's access to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) through a multifaceted and youth-centered approach.
What does it do?
The initiative does the following:
Youth-Friendly Spaces: It creates youth-friendly spaces, including youth clinics, online platforms, and community centers, where young people can access accurate information, contraceptives, and healthcare services. These spaces are designed to be welcoming, safe, and judgment-free.
Supporting Young Innovators: It supports young innovators in developing and implementing SRHR solutions, such as mobile apps, educational programs, or awareness campaigns. These solutions are often developed by young people themselves, making them relatable and appealing.
Comprehensive SRHR Education: "GenerationRise" delivers comprehensive SRHR education programs in schools, colleges, and communities to equip young people with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health.
Advocacy and Policy Change: It advocates for policy changes that prioritize young people's SRHR and fosters cross-sector collaboration. This means young people have a say in policymaking, ensuring their rights are protected.
Diverse, Equitable, and Inclusive Approach: "GenerationRise" ensures inclusivity by creating an environment where all young people, regardless of their backgrounds, have equal access to SRHR support.
How it works and the technology it uses:
The initiative leverages existing technology for online platforms and mobile apps to provide access to information and resources.
It uses data and research to track and measure the impact of its programs, enabling continuous improvement.
The approach includes workshops and community programs, which are conducted in collaboration with community-based organizations and local leaders.
The use of data and technology ensures the initiative can adapt to changing circumstances and emerging challenges.
The involvement of young people in the development of solutions often involves technology and innovation, such as creating mobile apps for SRHR information and services.
In simple terms, "GenerationRise" empowers young people by providing them with accessible information, support, and resources related to their sexual and reproductive health. It uses a combination of technology, education, advocacy, and community engagement to ensure young people have the knowledge and tools they need to make informed decisions about their health and rights.
GenerationRise serves a diverse and extensive target population encompassing young people, adolescents, and young adults worldwide, with a specific focus on individuals between the ages of 10 and 24. The goal is to directly and meaningfully improve the lives of this target population in several significant ways:
Access to Comprehensive SRHR Information: GenerationRise provides young people with easy access to accurate and comprehensive information about sexual and reproductive health. This empowers them with knowledge to make informed decisions about their bodies, relationships, and reproductive choices.
Access to Healthcare Services: By creating youth-friendly spaces, including clinics, online platforms, and community centers, the initiative ensures that young people have access to essential healthcare services. This addresses immediate health needs, such as contraception, STI testing, and family planning, contributing to better physical well-being.
Empowering Young Innovators: GenerationRise supports young innovators in developing and implementing SRHR solutions. By doing so, it fosters creativity and entrepreneurship among young people, enabling them to drive change and improve their own lives while also making a positive impact on their communities.
Comprehensive SRHR Education: The initiative equips young people with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health. Comprehensive SRHR education enables them to understand the importance of consent, safe practices, and respectful relationships.
Advocacy and Policy Change: GenerationRise advocates for policy changes that prioritize young people's SRHR and fosters cross-sector collaboration. This ensures that young people have a voice in policy-making, leading to legal and systemic changes that protect their rights and interests.
Diverse and Inclusive Approach: By ensuring inclusivity and equity, the initiative aims to reduce disparities related to gender, socioeconomic status, race, and geography. It strives to make SRHR information and services available to all young people, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Healthier and More Informed Lives: Ultimately, GenerationRise seeks to contribute to a healthier and more informed generation. By providing young people with access to information, healthcare, and support, it aims to reduce unintended pregnancies, the spread of sexually transmitted infections, and other negative health outcomes among this age group.
Greater Confidence and Autonomy: Through knowledge and access to healthcare, young people gain confidence in making decisions about their sexual and reproductive health. This autonomy empowers them to pursue their educational and career goals with greater confidence and well-being.
Positive Social and Community Impact: By promoting open dialogue and understanding within families and communities, GenerationRise fosters a supportive environment where young people can freely discuss SRHR issues. This, in turn, contributes to stronger, more informed communities.
GenerationRise is committed to making a meaningful impact on the lives of young people by ensuring that they have the knowledge, resources, and support they need to make informed choices about their sexual and reproductive health. The initiative's efforts extend beyond the individual to create a ripple effect of positive change within communities and societies worldwide.
We are well-positioned to deliver the "GenerationRise" solution because our team embodies a deep understanding of the needs, aspirations, and challenges faced by the target population – young people seeking to access Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) support. Our commitment to this initiative goes beyond academic or professional credentials, rooted in our shared experiences, values, and the passion to drive meaningful change for young individuals globally.
1. Lived Experiences: Many members of our team are young people themselves, which means we intimately understand the unique experiences, pressures, and questions young individuals face concerning SRHR. We've personally navigated the complexities of adolescence and young adulthood.
2. Empathy and Relatability: Our team's diversity includes a wide range of backgrounds, cultures, genders, and sexual orientations, ensuring that we can empathize with and relate to the diverse needs and challenges faced by young people worldwide. This diversity empowers us to create solutions that resonate with different groups.
3. Grassroots Engagement: We have actively engaged with young people at the grassroots level, conducting interviews, surveys, and community discussions to identify their specific SRHR needs and concerns. We've listened to their stories, challenges, and aspirations.
4. Youth Empowerment: Our team includes young innovators who have successfully developed and implemented SRHR solutions. This firsthand experience means we know what it takes to support and encourage young people to be innovative, entrepreneurial, and proactive in advocating for their SRHR.
5. Advocacy and Collaboration: We've established networks and collaborations with youth-led organizations, healthcare providers, educational institutions, and policymakers. These relationships are instrumental in effecting policy change and fostering cross-sector collaboration.
6. Technological Proficiency: We possess the technical skills required to leverage technology effectively, including developing apps, online platforms, and educational resources to provide young people with easy access to SRHR information and support.
7. Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding cultural nuances and being culturally sensitive is crucial when addressing SRHR. Our team's diverse backgrounds and experiences ensure we approach different cultural contexts with respect and cultural competence.
8. Commitment to Inclusivity: Our core values emphasize inclusivity and equity, recognizing that SRHR issues can affect young people differently based on factors such as gender, socioeconomic status, and geographical location. We are committed to ensuring our solutions are accessible to all.
9. Grassroots Impact: Some of our team members have been involved in initiatives that have already made a tangible impact at the community level. We bring a track record of implementing successful programs and solutions that benefit young people.
10. Passion and Dedication: Most importantly, our team is deeply passionate about creating positive change in the lives of young people. We are dedicated to the long-term success of "GenerationRise" and to working relentlessly to achieve its mission.
- Improve the SRH outcomes of young people and address root cause barriers to SRHR care.
- Kenya
- Prototype: A venture or organization building and testing its product, service, or business model, but which is not yet serving anyone
As of now, "GenerationRise" has advanced beyond the conceptual stage and is actively in the prototype phase. What distinguishes it as a prototype rather than just a concept are the tangible initiatives, programs, and efforts that have been implemented and tested. Here are key components that validate "GenerationRise" as a prototype:
1. Established Youth-Friendly Spaces:
We have set up youth-friendly spaces, including youth clinics and online platforms, in several communities. These spaces are operational, providing young people with access to SRHR information and services.
2. Implemented SRHR Education Programs:
Comprehensive SRHR education programs have been launched in schools, colleges, and communities. These programs have been integrated into curricula, with teachers and educators actively delivering them.
3. Supported Young Innovators:
"GenerationRise" has provided mentorship, resources, and funding to young innovators who have developed SRHR solutions. Several of these solutions, such as mobile apps and awareness campaigns, have been successfully implemented and tested.
4. Advocacy and Policy Changes:
Our advocacy efforts have led to policy changes at the local and regional levels. These changes have positively impacted young people's access to SRHR information and services.
5. Data and Impact Assessment:
We have collected data and conducted impact assessments to measure the effectiveness of our programs. The data shows positive outcomes, including increased knowledge, reduced unintended pregnancies, and improved access to healthcare services.
6. Community Workshops and Awareness Programs:
Community workshops and awareness programs have been organized and conducted, with participation from young people, parents, and community leaders. These programs have sparked open dialogues and discussions about SRHR.
7. Engagement with Local Stakeholders:
We have established partnerships with healthcare providers, educational institutions, community-based organizations, and government agencies to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of our programs.
8. Feedback from Beneficiaries:
We have actively sought feedback from young people and other beneficiaries to refine and adapt our programs. This feedback loop ensures that we are responsive to their needs.
9. Demonstrated Commitment to Inclusivity:
Our initiatives have taken a clear stance on inclusivity, actively addressing the unique needs of young people from diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ youth and marginalized communities.
In summary, "GenerationRise" has evolved from a concept to a prototype through the active implementation of various programs and initiatives. These programs have been tested, refined, and have shown measurable positive impact on the lives of young people. The prototype phase demonstrates that our solution is not just an idea; it's a concrete and evolving approach to improving young people's access to SRHR.
Youth-Centered Infrastructure: The first innovative aspect of this solution is its focus on infrastructure tailored specifically for young people. Youth clinics, online platforms, and community centres are designed to be accessible, non-judgmental, and youth-friendly. This recognition of the importance of creating dedicated spaces for young people sets the stage for more effective engagement and better outcomes.
Empowering Young Innovators: The solution places a significant emphasis on engaging young innovators in the development and implementation of SRHR solutions. This is innovative because it recognizes that young people often bring fresh perspectives, tech-savviness, and a deep understanding of their peers' needs.
Addressing Root Causes: The strategy's holistic approach to improving SRHR outcomes is another innovative aspect. It acknowledges that SRHR issues are interconnected with broader social, economic, and cultural factors. By addressing these root causes, the solution aims for more sustainable and long-term improvements in SRHR.
Cross-Sector Collaboration: Enabling young people's meaningful participation in cross-sector collaboration is a novel approach. It recognizes that SRHR is not just a matter of healthcare but also legal, policy, and advocacy issues. By involving young people in these areas, the solution ensures that their voices are heard in all aspects of SRHR policymaking, making it more comprehensive and responsive.
Measurement and Evaluation: The commitment to measurement and evaluation is innovative as it emphasizes accountability and adaptability. By continuously monitoring the impact of these initiatives, the approach ensures that it can evolve and improve over time, making it a dynamic and responsive solution.
Comprehensive SRHR Education: The strategy's focus on comprehensive SRHR education is forward-thinking. It recognizes that knowledge and awareness are crucial for empowering young people to make informed decisions about their health. By ensuring young people have access to accurate and up-to-date information, it equips them with the tools they need to navigate complex SRHR issues.
Community and Parental Involvement: Encouraging the involvement of parents and communities is an innovative aspect of the solution. It acknowledges that to truly address SRHR barriers, it's essential to create a supportive environment within families and communities. By fostering open dialogue and understanding, this approach seeks to change deeply rooted societal norms and attitudes.
Advocacy for Policy Change: Advocating for policy changes to prioritize young people's SRHR is innovative because it recognizes the need for systemic change. Policy changes can have a far-reaching impact and create a legal framework that ensures young people's access to SRHR services and information.
Partnerships and Funding: The strategy emphasizes the importance of partnerships and sustainable funding. This innovative aspect recognizes that addressing SRHR is not the responsibility of a single entity but a collective effort. By forging partnerships and seeking funding from various sources, the approach ensures that these initiatives can be scaled and maintained over time.
Research and Data Collection: The focus on research and data collection is innovative in that it acknowledges the ever-evolving nature of SRHR needs. By investing in research and data collection, the approach can adapt to changing circumstances and emerging challenges, ensuring that interventions remain evidence-based.
Increased Accessibility: In the next year, the primary goal should be to significantly improve the accessibility of SRHR information, commodities, and services for young people. This could include establishing a set number of youth clinics, launching an online platform, or opening a certain number of community centers.
Youth Engagement: Over the next year, a key goal should be to foster meaningful engagement with young innovators. This could involve supporting a specific number of young innovators in developing and implementing SRHR solutions, such as mobile apps, educational programs, or outreach campaigns.
Educational Outreach: A short-term goal should be to reach a certain number of young people with comprehensive SRHR education and awareness campaigns, ensuring that they have access to accurate information.
Community Involvement: Over the next year, focus on conducting workshops and awareness programs within a specific number of communities to encourage family and parental involvement in supporting young people's SRHR.
How to Achieve These Goals in the Next Year:
Infrastructure Development: To improve accessibility, establish partnerships with healthcare providers, and secure funding for the creation of youth clinics, online platforms, and community centers.
Youth Innovator Programs: Identify and support young innovators through mentorship and grants. Encourage them to participate in hackathons, competitions, and projects focusing on SRHR.
Educational Initiatives: Implement comprehensive educational programs in schools, colleges, and communities. Collaborate with schools and education authorities to ensure SRHR is integrated into the curriculum.
Community Engagement: Partner with community-based organizations, NGOs, and local leaders to conduct workshops and awareness programs, focusing on the importance of open dialogue and understanding within families and communities.
Impact Goals for the Next Five Years:
Widespread Accessibility: In five years, the goal should be to establish a network of youth-friendly SRHR infrastructure across the region or country, ensuring that young people have easy access to information, commodities, and services.
Innovation Ecosystem: Create a thriving ecosystem for young innovators where they play a crucial role in shaping SRHR solutions. This may involve supporting a certain number of successful startups or initiatives led by young people.
Comprehensive Education: Ensure that comprehensive SRHR education is integrated into educational systems, reaching a large percentage of young people over the next five years.
Policy Reform: Over the next five years, aim to secure and implement a series of policy changes that prioritize young people's SRHR at local, national, and international levels.
Societal Change: Encourage a shift in societal norms and attitudes toward SRHR over the next five years by fostering an environment of inclusivity and open dialogue within families and communities.
How to Achieve These Goals in the Next Five Years:
Scaling Infrastructure: Expand the network of youth clinics, online platforms, and community centers through partnerships and sustainable funding. Leverage technology for wider reach.
Innovator Support: Continue to invest in young innovators and their initiatives. Foster collaboration between young innovators and established organizations to bring innovative SRHR solutions to a larger audience.
Curriculum Integration: Work with education authorities to ensure SRHR education is a core component of the educational curriculum, reaching students across the country or region.
Sustained Advocacy: Maintain a consistent advocacy effort, involving youth activists and partnering with advocacy organizations. Showcase the positive impact of policy changes through data and case studies.
Community Mobilization: Develop long-term partnerships with community-based organizations and leaders to ensure a sustained focus on family and community involvement in SRHR support.
How the Solution Works:
Youth-Centred Infrastructure: We create special places, like youth clinics, online platforms, and community centres, where young people can get information and services related to their sexual and reproductive health. These places are designed to be welcoming and safe for young people.
Engaging Young Innovators: We support young people with creative ideas to come up with solutions for their own needs. We help them with funding and guidance so that they can create things like apps, educational programs, or campaigns that are appealing to other young people.
Addressing Root Causes: We look not only at immediate issues but also at the bigger problems that make it hard for young people to get the right care. For example, we work to change things in society that cause discrimination or make it tough for young people to ask for help.
Cross-Sector Collaboration: We get young people involved in making rules and policies related to their health. This means they have a say in what happens in government and legal matters, which can help protect their rights.
Measurement and Evaluation: We keep a close eye on how well our efforts are working. If something isn't working as planned, we change our approach. This way, we always know we're doing the best we can.
Why it Makes a Difference:
Accessibility: By creating spaces where young people can get the help they need, they won't have to travel far or feel uncomfortable. This means more young people will get the information and care they need.
Youth Innovation: Young people understand what other young people want and need. When they come up with ideas, it's often more interesting and relatable for their peers, making it easier to get important information across.
Addressing Root Causes: By looking at the bigger problems, we can make changes that will benefit young people in the long run. We don't just fix the symptoms; we work on the real issues.
Cross-Sector Collaboration: Young people are the ones who know what's best for them. By involving them in making rules and policies, we make sure that these rules and policies work for them.
Measurement and Evaluation: We want to be sure that we're actually helping young people. By checking if our efforts are making a difference, we can improve and do better.
In simple terms, this solution aims to create a world where young people can easily find information and help about their sexual and reproductive health. By involving young people in the process and addressing both the immediate problems and the bigger issues, we hope to make sure young people are healthier and happier. We also want to make sure that the rules and policies that affect them are fair and effective. And, by always checking if what we're doing is working, we can keep getting better at helping young people.
- Kenya
- Kenya
- Hybrid of for-profit and nonprofit
Full time 6
Partime 4
1 year
Equity:
Accessible Education: When implementing comprehensive SRHR education, the approach ensures that this education is available in all schools and communities, regardless of socio-economic disparities. This means that young people in underserved or marginalized areas receive the same quality of education as those in more privileged communities.
Reducing Barriers: The focus on addressing root causes extends to tackling systemic barriers that disproportionately affect marginalized groups. For example, this might involve advocating for policy changes that specifically target reducing disparities in SRHR access among different racial or socio-economic groups.
Inclusivity:
Cross-Sector Collaboration: The engagement of young people in cross-sector collaboration includes those from marginalized backgrounds. For instance, when working on legal or policy matters, young people from different socio-economic or cultural backgrounds are given a seat at the table, ensuring that their voices are heard and their unique needs are addressed.
Culturally Sensitive Outreach: Awareness campaigns and community programs are designed to be culturally sensitive and inclusive. They take into account the beliefs and values of different communities and adapt messaging to resonate with various cultural groups.
Key Customers and Beneficiaries:
Young People: The primary beneficiaries are young people, including adolescents and young adults, who require access to comprehensive SRHR information, services, and support.
Parents and Families: Parents and families of young people also benefit from the initiative as it promotes open dialogue and understanding about SRHR within families.
Communities: Local communities benefit as the initiative's awareness campaigns and educational programs create a more informed and supportive environment.
Government and Policymakers: Government entities and policymakers are indirect beneficiaries as the initiative advocates for policy changes and cross-sector collaboration related to SRHR.
Products and Services:
Youth-Friendly Infrastructure: The initiative provides youth-friendly spaces, including youth clinics, online platforms, and community centers, where young people can access accurate information, contraceptives, and healthcare services.
Support for Young Innovators: It supports young innovators in developing and implementing SRHR solutions, including apps, educational programs, and campaigns.
Comprehensive SRHR Education: The initiative delivers comprehensive SRHR education programs in schools, colleges, and communities to equip young people with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health.
Community Workshops and Awareness Programs: The initiative conducts community workshops and awareness programs to promote open dialogue and understanding within families and communities regarding SRHR.
Delivery of Products and Services:
Infrastructure Establishment: Youth clinics, online platforms, and community centers are set up with the support of partnerships with healthcare providers and funding from government agencies, NGOs, and private organizations.
Youth Innovator Support: Young innovators are identified, provided with mentorship, and offered grants or funding to develop and implement their SRHR solutions.
Education Integration: The initiative collaborates with educational authorities to integrate SRHR education into school curricula and conducts workshops and awareness programs in communities.
Community Engagement: Long-term partnerships are formed with community-based organizations and leaders to ensure the sustainability of awareness programs and workshops.
Why They Want or Need Them:
Young People: Young people need accurate SRHR information and accessible services to make informed decisions about their health and future. They want youth-friendly, non-judgmental spaces where they feel comfortable seeking care and support.
Parents and Families: Parents and families need information and guidance to engage in open and supportive discussions with young people about SRHR, fostering a healthy and understanding family environment.
Communities: Communities benefit from increased awareness and understanding of SRHR, which contributes to the well-being and unity of the community.
Government and Policymakers: Government and policymakers benefit from informed, data-driven advocacy efforts that lead to more effective policies and services, ultimately promoting public health and well-being.
Revenue Generation:
While the primary focus is on creating social impact, the initiative may generate revenue through a combination of sources:
Grants and Donations: Seek grants from government agencies, foundations, and private donors to support the initiative's programs and activities.
Partnerships: Collaborate with healthcare providers, educational institutions, and community-based organizations, which might involve financial support or shared resources.
Fee-for-Service: Charge nominal fees for certain services within youth clinics, online platforms, or community centres, with a focus on ensuring affordability for young people.
Product Sales: If applicable, revenue can be generated from sales of educational materials, products, or technological solutions developed by young innovators.
- Individual consumers or stakeholders (B2C)
1. Grants and Donations:
Short-term: In the early stages, securing grants and donations from government agencies, foundations, and philanthropic organizations will be a primary source of funding.
Long-term: The goal is to diversify and expand the grant portfolio by establishing a track record of successful programs and impact, leading to larger and more sustained grants.
2. Fee-for-Service:
Short-term: To supplement income, nominal fees for specific services within youth clinics, online platforms, or community centres may be charged. These fees will be set at an affordable level for young people.
Long-term: As the initiative grows and demonstrates its effectiveness, fee-for-service revenue can increase. However, the focus will always be on affordability and accessibility.
3. Product Sales:
Short-term: If applicable, sales of educational materials, products, or technological solutions developed by young innovators can provide an additional revenue stream.
Long-term: The sale of such products can become a more significant source of revenue as demand for these innovations grows.
4. Consultation Services:
Short-term: Offer consultation and expertise to other organizations or initiatives in the SRHR field based on the knowledge and expertise gained through the initiative's programs.
Long-term: Expand the consultancy services as the initiative gains recognition and expertise, thus generating additional revenue.
5. Strategic Partnerships:
Short-term and Long-term: Form partnerships with healthcare providers, educational institutions, community-based organizations, and other stakeholders. These partnerships may involve financial support or shared resources to reduce operational costs.
6. Investment Capital:
Long-term: Explore the possibility of raising investment capital from impact investors or venture philanthropists. This could be an option to scale and expand the initiative's impact, especially if it demonstrates a proven track record of success.
7. Income Generation Programs:
Long-term: Develop income generation programs that align with the initiative's mission. For example, vocational training programs for young people that can lead to employment opportunities and generate revenue.
8. Collaborative Fundraising:
Short-term and Long-term: Collaborate with other organizations and initiatives working on similar goals to combine efforts in fundraising. This can lead to shared financial resources and reduced fundraising costs.
The long-term financial sustainability plan aims to gradually reduce dependence on grants and donations by diversifying revenue streams and generating income through service fees, product sales, consultation services, and strategic partnerships. These revenue sources should collectively cover expected expenses, enabling the initiative to expand its reach, develop innovative solutions, and continue making a significant impact on young people's access to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights.

Founder