2023 Innovative Solutions: Call for Applications
Youth-led Solutions on GBV and SRHR
Background
Kenya faces significant challenges related to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), including maternal health, and Gender-Based Violence (GBV). These issues have profound social, psychological, and physical impacts on young people and the community. Innovations provide a great pathway for young people to lead and participate in solutions to these challenges. DSW, through the GoK-UNFPA 10th Country Programme, is seeking new and innovative youth-led solutions on GBV and SRHR (including maternal health), to facilitate their incubation and acceleration.
Overview of the 2023 Call for Innovative Youth-led Solutions
Call for Innovative Youth-led Solutions aims to drive creative and sustainable solutions that promote Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights and combat Gender-Based Violence. It is expected that the solutions generated from this process will ultimately be scaled up and contribute to achievement of the three transformative results: (a) ending preventable maternal deaths, (b) ending the unmet need for family planning, and (c) ending gender-based violence and all harmful practices, including child marriage and female genital mutilation.
This Call invites solutions, from individuals aged 18-34 and groups (youth empowerment centres, youth groups, youth clubs and youth-led organizations) in Kenya, that contribute to the well-being and empowerment of young people affected by these issues.
Call Tracks:
- SRHR Access and Education: solutions that improve access to accurate information, and services, related to sexual and reproductive health and rights, including maternal health, family planning and contraception. This can include digital platforms, educational campaigns, or community-based interventions to raise awareness and provide support.
- GBV Intervention and Support: solutions to prevent and address Gender-Based Violence in any of its many forms. Innovations in this track should provide tools for early intervention, safe reporting mechanisms, support networks, and resources for survivors. This can involve technology, community engagement, and legal empowerment.
Key Objectives:
- Develop innovative solutions that are feasible, scalable, and culturally sensitive.
- Empower individuals and communities to take an active role in addressing these issues.
- Raise awareness and drive impactful conversations around SRHR and GBV.
- Foster collaboration between technology, healthcare, social work, and advocacy sectors.
Prizes:
Winners of the 2023 Call for Innovative Youth-led Solutions will receive mentorship, networking opportunities, and support to further develop and implement their solutions. These will be:
- Seed funding for 1st and 2nd place solutions, at Ksh. 500,000 each and 3rd place solutions at Ksh. 200,000
- Mentorship and technical assistance of 1st, 2nd and 3rd place solutions, to further develop and implement their solutions, for a period of three months.
Judging Criteria:
Submissions will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
- Innovation: Uniqueness and creativity of the solution.
- Relevance: How well innovation aligns with the track of choice (SRHR, GBV)
- Impact: Potential to positively influence SRHR or GBV-related outcomes.
- Community Engagement and Inclusivity: How well innovation engages and caters to the community.
- Feasibility: Likelihood of successful implementation and scalability.
- Sustainability: Long-term viability and potential for lasting change.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Consideration of local customs, beliefs, and norms.
- Collaboration: Involvement of relevant stakeholders and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Timeline:
- Submission Deadline: 17th October 2023
How to Apply:
- Choose a focus area that aligns with your area of interest.
- Develop and submit your solution proposal, including a detailed plan and supporting materials.
- Submit your innovation below
