Building a strong network between young people around the world is an essential step for achieving the Millennium Development Goals.  Youth unemployment is a huge problem in Sierra Leone , with limited opportunities for young people to participate in income generating activities.

The members of the Youth Movement for Peace & Non Violence (YMPNV) in Sierra Leone are involved in making traditional batik clothing and wooden jewelry, and they face difficulties in selling their products in the local market

In November 2003, YMPNV and UNSA (United Nations Student Association ) agreed on a partnership project to enable the members of YMPNV to sell their handmade products in Australia, whilst enhancing project management skills of both YMPNV and UNSA members.  The products will be sold by UNSA members on Market Day and at the weekly market stall, held at the University of Queensland .

From this project, YMPNV and UNSA hope to strengthen cultural understanding and relationships between young people around the world.  Despite the vast geographical distance between Sierra Leone and Australia, there are no unbeatable barriers when it comes to youth helping youth.

If you would like details on how to purchase items sold under the "Youth for Youth" label, please contact dylan.tovey@gmail.com or contact Dylan Tovey on +617 3379 4018 (Australian number).

Another pilot Youth for Youth program currently exists between a German Youth group and Sierra Leone. Enquiries should be directed to Hannah May on sierraleoneprojekt@web.de

If you are a youth-oriented group (anywhere in the world) who is interested in participating in future versions of the "Youth for Youth" project - please contact Dylan Tovey on dylan.tovey@gmail.com