One of the key ways Shaqodoon is achieving this is by providing youth centers, such as the Gabiley Youth Center. Rehabilitated and managed by Shaqodoon with the support of the Gabiley Municipality and the UNFPA. These centers provide safe, nurturing environments for youth and women to address sensitive issues, grow, learn, and develop skills that can help them break the cycle of poverty and create a better future for themselves.

The core objectives of these UNFPA-supported centers include:

• Providing a variety of services such as SRH counseling, family planning, nutrition, and psychosocial support

• Educational and vocational training

• Community-level outreach and awareness programs

• Additionally, they provide aid to those seeking justice and protection from Gender-Based violence, and referrals to specialized health care services.

In February 2024, we inaugurated the long-awaited center in Berbera. This exciting initiative, spearheaded by Shaqodoon in collaboration with esteemed partners and donors, marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to empower the youth and foster social inclusion in the region.

Objectives of the Berbera Youth Center:

At the heart of the Berbera Youth Center's mission lies a commitment to providing a nurturing space for the youth to thrive, grow, and unlock their full potential. The center is dedicated to:

• Offering comprehensive educational and vocational training programs to equip youth with essential skills for success in today's competitive world.

• Providing a safe and supportive environment for personal development, fostering creativity, leadership, and critical thinking.

• Promoting gender equality and social inclusion by actively engaging and empowering young women and marginalized groups.

• Serving as a hub for community engagement and collaboration, facilitating dialogue, and driving positive social change.

The launch of the Berbera Youth Center signifies a transformative moment for the local community. By providing access to quality education, skills training, and support services, the center aims to uplift and empower youth from all walks of life. Through targeted outreach initiatives and community-based programs, we aspire to:

• Address socio-economic disparities and empower marginalized groups, including women and persons with disabilities, to actively participate in the socio-economic development of their communities.

• Foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, creating pathways to economic empowerment and sustainable livelihoods for the youth.

• Cultivate a sense of belonging and civic engagement, encouraging youth to become active agents of positive change and community leaders.

The secondary objective is to equip youth with the necessary skills to become independent and productive members of society. The centers provide youth with safe spaces for recreational activities such as gaming and socializing, as well as access to education, job training, and career guidance. These centers serve as invaluable safe spaces where young individuals can engage in a variety of recreational activities, fostering social connections and personal development. With gaming facilities, social areas, and interactive environments, the centers provide a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere that encourages youth to explore their passions and interests.

Through the center, young women and men can find a safe place to learn, grow, and be inspired to reach their full potential. The centers prioritize access to education, job training, and career guidance. Through structured programs and workshops, young women and men are provided with a supportive environment to explore their interests, create meaningful connections, and enhance their knowledge and skills.

In alignment with their commitment to social inclusion, the centers actively engage in innovative campaigns aimed at raising awareness and addressing pressing social issues. These campaigns tackle critical topics such as sexual and reproductive health (SRH), gender-based violence (GBV), substance abuse, and community gender and social inclusion. Through informative sessions, community outreach programs, and advocacy initiatives, the centers strive to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and promote a more equitable and inclusive society.