The Youth Resource Centre: A Hub for Growth
What if every young person had the opportunity to gain practical skills, access meaningful employment, build confidence, and create a brighter future? This is the vision behind the Empowering Youth for Employability (EYE), Health and Holistic Development Project, a flagship initiative of VFM-Kenya dedicated to unlocking the potential of youth aged 15 to 35 years in Rusinga Island.
At a time when many young people face unemployment, limited training opportunities, digital exclusion, and growing mental health challenges, the EYE Project offers a pathway to hope, growth, and self-reliance.
At the heart of the initiative is the Youth Resource Centre in Rusinga West, a safe, inclusive, and inspiring space where young people can learn, connect, and grow. The Centre offers access to training, mentorship, health services, digital resources, recreation, and networking opportunities, creating an environment where young people can reach their full potential.
Who do we serve?
Vulnerable youths aged between 15–35 years who are:
- School leavers/dropouts/never transited
- Young mothers
- Youth with disabilities
- Unemployed
- Unskilled
Skills That Create Opportunities
Participants gain access to market-relevant training in areas such as:
- Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy
- Tailoring and Dressmaking
- Plumbing
- Welding
- Carpentry
- Agribusiness
- Computer Literacy
- Entrepreneurship and Leadership
- Driving
These programs are designed to prepare youth for employment, self-employment, and business creation.
Promoting Health and Wellbeing
Success begins with good health. The EYE Project supports young people through:
- Reproductive health education
- Mental health counselling
- Substance abuse prevention
- Nutrition and wellness awareness
- Youth-friendly health services
By addressing both physical and mental wellbeing, the project helps youth build healthier and more productive lives.
Bridging the Digital Barriers
In today's world, digital skills are essential. The project provides access to:
- Computer training
- Internet services
- Online learning resources
- Job search support
- Digital entrepreneurship opportunities
This ensures that young people are equipped to compete and thrive in an increasingly digital economy.
Building Future Leaders.
The EYE Project connects youth with mentors, professionals, and community leaders who
provide guidance, encouragement, and career support. Through mentorship and leadership development, participants gain the confidence and skills needed to lead, innovate, and make meaningful contributions to society.
Investing in the Next Generation
The EYE Project aims to significantly improve youth employability, strengthen economic resilience, increase digital literacy, promote positive health outcomes, and nurture a generation of confident leaders. To make training more accessible, the programme is currently mobilising participants under a cost-sharing model for the first 300 youth beneficiaries, reducing financial barriers and creating opportunities for those ready to invest in their future. The first cohort enrolment will be after the launching of the project on 3rd August 2026 on site.
Join the Movement:
The future of our communities depends on empowered young people. Through the EYE Project, VFM-Kenya is creating opportunities, building resilience, and transforming lives, one young person at a time.
Empowering Youth. Transforming Lives. Building Futures.