Shakinar (Shark) Mutulili proposes an initiative for the Freedom within Kenya Project, which she co-founded. Her proposal aims to improve living conditions for children and mothers in two illequipped rural prisons. The project will provide immediate needs, such as baby food, diapers, and cots, as well as work towards long-term goals like improving sanitation by renovating toilets, providing water tanks, and creating childcare spaces. She will partner with the Rotary Club of Karengata in implementation, and with local organisations for sustainability. Shark has experience in advocacy for children in Kenya and mobilizing other youth for change. She now studies public policy analysis at Pomona College.

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Natasha Yen plans to implement a Youth Empowerment and Leadership Program at Little Rose Center in Soweto, South Africa. The program includes leadership and skills development workshops, and a mentorship program where youth will enact community-based projects. By addressing local needs, students will foster social responsibility and sustainable development. The project aims to build youth leadership, equipping participants with resources and skills to strengthen their agency for meaningful change. Natasha’s prior work with the Center during her study abroad in Southern Africa, combined with her mentoring and project management experience and studies of sociology and environmental analysis, prepares her to lead this transformative project.