Mogadishu, December 21, 2023 – In Mogadishu, 22-year-old Osama’s life has taken a significant turn thanks to the Somali Youth (SoYo) Fellowship, a new initiative by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) aimed at nurturing future Somali leaders.

A Tough Beginning: Growing up in Mogadishu, Osama was disheartened by the global perception of Somalia as a country plagued by conflict and corruption. Determined to change this narrative, he taught himself photography and videography right after high school to showcase Somalia’s beauty and potential through storytelling. He captures daily life and development efforts in Somalia, believing that highlighting the positive aspects can contribute to the nation’s growth and transformation.

A Beacon of Hope: Osama’s journey took a positive turn when he was accepted into the SoYo Fellowship, which began on December 21, 2023. This program aims to equip young Somalis with the skills and opportunities needed for personal development and nation-building. “The SoYo Fellowship is about empowering us to become leaders in our communities,” Osama says. The 12-month curriculum includes training in entrepreneurship, innovation, and personalized mentorship from experienced professionals.

The Transformation: Osama quickly immersed himself in the fellowship’s activities, finding the training sessions both challenging and rewarding. He excelled in workshops on community-led activism, design thinking, leadership, and journalism, learning to create initiatives that address local needs. He plans to expand his skills to other regions in Somalia, using photography as a tool for development.

A Bright Future: The SoYo Fellowship has given Osama the confidence and tools to make a real difference. He is dedicated to using his skills to help build a better future for Somalia. Osama’s story highlights the transformative power of the SoYo Fellowship Program. By equipping young people with essential skills and support, UNFPA is fostering a generation of leaders who will drive sustainable change in Somalia. As World Youth Skills Day is celebrated, Osama’s journey underscores the importance of investing in youth empowerment and the potential impact of Somali youth when given the right opportunities.