East Africa has a predominantly young population, with over 80% under the age of 35. However, many young people face high unemployment, poverty, and limited opportunities, particularly in underserved communities. Without access to education, mentorship, or leadership programmes, they become vulnerable to idleness, crime, and social challenges.
Gender inequality remains a significant barrier, with many young girls lacking access to sports, education, and leadership opportunities. Societal norms often discourage female participation in sports, limiting their ability to build confidence, leadership skills, and independence.
At ISA East Africa, we believe in the transformative power of sports to equip young people with:
We are committed to breaking gender barriers in sports, ensuring young women have equal opportunities to reach their potential and become leaders in their communities. Through sports, we create safe, dynamic spaces where young people—both men and women—can discover their potential and develop essential skills for a brighter future.
We implement structured programmes that empower young people at every stage of their journey, equipping them with the skills and opportunities to thrive:
For all young people to participate in their communities.
Encouraging youth participation & engagement in sports to lay a foundation for leadership. Learn more about the GAME programme.
For young people to gain personal power.
Teaching life skills & decision-making through sports, enabling youth to take meaningful action in their lives.Learn more about the CHANGE programme.
For young people to lead social change.
Supporting young leaders in driving social change, using their skills to positively impact their communities.Learn more about the GAME CHANGERS programme.
Incorporating mental health awareness into our programmes has been a game-changer. We equip young people with:
• Tools for resilience and emotional well-being
• Support networks within sports communities
• Confidence to tackle life’s challenges
Our partner organisations are hosting this exciting event to celebrate youth, sports, and leadership. The festival provides a platform for young people to:
• Showcase leadership & teamwork skills
• Gain confidence through public speaking & event organisation
• Engage in community-driven sports activities
ISA East Africa now has a dedicated board actively guiding our programmes. This strengthens our impact, ensuring we empower more young people and drive meaningful social change.
ISA’s Development Week in Uganda was a pivotal gathering, bringing together representatives from East Africa, West Africa, the Middle East & North Africa, and Europe. This essential event focused on…
ISA E.A endeavors to facilitate the development of young people, to provide mentorship, on the job coaching and nurture innovations using the power of sports. ISA East Africa has been…
Dear, We are delighted to celebrate with you our 10th anniversary at ISA, and we want to thank you as a valued member of our community for your contribution to…
This year we celebrate ISA’s tenth anniversary! That’s the reason why we as ISA want to give back to our main inspiration: the youth in the world. Are you 24…
Our dedicated team in East Africa is at the heart of empowering youth through sports. Meet the passionate leaders, coaches, and mentors driving positive change in communities across the region:
“Sports field is a school of life. It teaches me to play my main role to make my story count. ISA provides a fun and safe space for me to contribute and co create with young people to achieve personal goals and build a friendly community through lifelong changing activities.”
“Having grown up, engaged as well as having a sporting chance on and off the pitch and throughout my life I have been able to journey as a youth and together working with young people thus acquiring and accumulating knowledge and skills worth sharing. I always look forward to being part of ISA team as together we are able to connect, share and with a view of young people as a resource, empower them to discover and realize their potential to create a positive impact both to their lives and communities.”
“Patience pays, and truth be told each and everyone of us has something someone else can borrow from. ISA has provided me Mariam Twahir the best environment to grow as a person and at the same time work towards helping young people to realise their potential”
“I am grateful to get the opportunity for personal growth and being in an safe environment that let me realize my potential. That’s what I want to share with my community.”
“ISA has been a very essential platform in harnessing the power of sport for social transformation. Being part of ISA has aroused my appetite for sport and my zeal to support young people within my community, as well as the region, to tap into it. Sport is also a powerful tool for social transformation, mobilisation, as well as entertainment. I look forward to impacting young people and making a positive difference wherever I go.”
“I have always been passionate about fighting for equal rights because every person deserves the same opportunities in life. Unfortunately, that’s not the reality, but even the smallest positive change can make a difference. At ISA, I have the incredible opportunity to empower young people, support their growth, and create new possibilities. And all this through the power of sports!”
Board Chair
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Represents East Africa in
The Global Council
Treasurer
Secretary
Board Member
Board Member
Board Member
Board Member
Share your expertise and make an impact!
We are always looking for passionate volunteers who can contribute in the following areas:
Ready to volunteer?
If you are skilled in any of the areas above, we’d love to hear from you!
Contact us at info@isa-youth.org, and we’ll get in touch soon.
Gain hands-on experience and grow with us!
Interning with ISA offers a unique opportunity to develop both your professional skills and your passion for youth empowerment. We provide mentorship and real-world learning experiences, including:
Join our team!
Looking to make an impact while developing your career? Reach out to us today!
Send your application to info@isa-youth.org.
Collaborate with us to create lasting change for young people!
At ISA, we believe in the power of partnerships to drive sustainable development. Together, we can create a better future for young people worldwide. Here are the types of partnerships you can engage in:
Financial Partner:
Your financial support will directly fund programmes that empower youth to become leaders in their communities. Your contributions make a tangible difference in the lives of young people.
Corporate Partner:
Align your brand with our mission and engage in long-term collaborations that support youth development on a global scale. From co-branded campaigns to employee engagement, your partnership will drive change.
Impact Partner:
Share your expertise, connections, and resources to expand the reach of our youth empowerment initiatives. By joining forces, we can strengthen our global network and create more opportunities for young people.
Let’s make an impact together!
Contact us today to explore partnership opportunities.
“The ISA training opened up my eyes and created a space for me to be myself while I learn.”
– Margaret (18)