Plan International Rwanda launches Youth Advisory Panel (YAP)

A five-member youth panel has been officially established as Plan International Rwanda’s newly formed Youth Advisory Panel (YAP).

The panel’s core objective is to amplify Plan International’s commitment to becoming a youth-centred organisation by creating an enabling environment for youth in all their diversity to meaningfully participate in governance and decision-making spaces within Plan International Rwanda.

The panel members are Gisele Akimana Uwineza (22), Ange Umutoni (22), Christa Vanina Mugisha (25), Gilbert Mwizerwa (22), and Anastase Ndagijimana (30).

“The establishment of the Youth Advisory Panel (YAP) is a key step towards ensuring young people’s voices are not only heard but also drive lasting change. It reaffirms our commitment at Plan International, to being a truly youth-centred organisation, one where young people are empowered to lead, inspire and create impact,” remarks Emilie Fernandes, Country Director.

The Youth Advisory Panel (YAP) will:

• Contribute to Plan International Rwanda’s programme development and implementation, advocate for gender equality and children’s rights,Share their ideas, analyses, strengths,  challenges and positions to influence Plan International Rwanda leadership management to shape adequate strategy and programs adapted to the needs of youths
• Collaborate with senior leadership of Plan International through attendance to key internal meeting platforms.
• Support the design and implementation of youth engagement mechanisms and represent the organisation in local, national and international youth forums.
• Promote inclusive participation, particularly for girls, young women, and youth with disabilities.

“I aspire to champion initiatives that provide girls with access to mentorship and leadership opportunities, enabling them to confidently claim their active contribution in society’s development and drive positive change. The panel ensures that youth voices shape the programmes and decisions that affect their lives,” notes Ange Umutoni, one of the panel members.

The panel forms part of a broader global effort by Plan International to position youth, particularly girls and young women, as active leaders and true partners in shaping a more just and sustainable future.