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Sida

The Sida funded programme "Driven by Passions - Young People Leading change" brings together partners across several countries to open up real opportunities for young people—especially those who often get left out. We work to remove barriers, strengthen youth participation, and create safer, more inclusive communities where young people can grow, lead, and be heard. You can find all extra details and materials right here.

About programme

Sida programme logo

Young people have the power to shape the future, but systemic barriers often stand in their way. This 3-year, multi-country programme, grounded in Fryshuset’s 40+ years of experience, aims to break down those barriers by addressing social isolation, unemployment, mental health challenges, and lack of education. Together with partners in 5 countries, we’re creating opportunities for young people to lead, connect, and build inclusive, resilient societies. Watch the video to learn more:

This Sida programme builds on Fryshuset’s established model, which recognises how systemic power structures limit opportunities for young people to engage. Exclusion is not only a personal experience but also the result of structural barriers that weaken democratic participation.

The programme prioritises young people aged 12–25 years who are marginalised or underrepresented. Special attention is given to women and girls, LGBTQ+ youth, young people with disabilities, and those impacted by conflict.

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Geographical reach

This programme aims to work internationally across five countries. It will be implemented through strategic collaborations with local organisations, focusing on strengthening youth empowerment and driving sustainable change at the local level.

We will work with partner organisations in each country:

Armenia: Armenian Progressive Youth (APY)
Ethiopia: Megabi Skate
Kenya: Mwelu Foundation
Moldova: Institute for Rural Initiatives (iRi) and Urban Spirit Family
Ukraine: STAN

Programme map

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Partnerships for sustainable impact

Fryshuset collaborates closely with partner organisations to strengthen youth participation, inclusion, and long-term impact. Our model connects Fryshuset, partner organisations and young people through an exchange of knowledge, methods, and support.

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We equip partners with tools for respectful engagement, inclusive representation, and meaningful, sustainable programmes that reflect young people’s real needs and experiences. At the same time, we help strengthen partners’ internal systems and staff capacity to ensure resilient, effective operations.

Fundraising

The total budget for this programme is 40 million SEK over 3 years, of which Sida requires Fryshuset to secure 15% of the total amount as own contribution. Fryshuset is seeking strategic partnerships with private sector companies (as well as foundations, and philanthropists) that align with its mission to create meaningful and lasting change for young people globally.

Why Partner with Fryshuset?

Through this programme, partner organisations strengthen how they engage with young people, ensure inclusive representation, design meaningful and sustainable programmes, and build more resilient operations with strong staff capacity. Collaboration with Fryshuset enables partners to:

• Enhance Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) & Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Goals.
• Gain positive brand association by supporting impactful initiatives.
• Connect with engaged and passionate young people.

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Contact

Interested in partnering with us? Get in touch with:

Sofia Gustafsson
International Coordinator & Project Manager

Resources

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Full proposal

Full proposal
Driven by Passions – Young People Leading Change

2-page proposal

Summary (2 pages):
Driven by Passions – Young People Leading Change

10-page proposal

Programme brief (11 pages):
Driven by Passions – Young People Leading Change