On Tuesday, 23 June 2026, Youthmakers Hub Kenya hosted Youth Voices in Action: Advocacy, Participation & Digital Engagement, an online programme designed to strengthen young people’s knowledge, skills, and participation in civic life.

Organized in collaboration with The Youth Congress and Emerging Leaders Foundation Africa, the session brought together 50 young people for an interactive exchange on advocacy, civic engagement, leadership, digital citizenship, and youth participation.

The webinar created a space for young people to learn how they can contribute more actively to decision-making processes, community development, and positive social change. It also focused on how digital platforms can be used responsibly and effectively to amplify youth voices, share stories, access opportunities, and engage in advocacy.

During the session, participants heard from Dr. Esther Munyiri from Kenyatta University, Raphael Obonyo from The Youth Congress, and Andrea Otieno from Emerging Leaders Foundation Africa. The speakers shared practical insights and real-life examples on active citizenship, youth advocacy, digital leadership, storytelling, and responsible online engagement.

A key message from the discussion was that young people already have the ideas and energy needed to shape change. As Raphael Obonyo shared:

“Young people have fresh ideas, energy, creativity and solutions.” 

The discussion focused on the role of young people in shaping policies and decisions that affect their lives. Participants explored how youth advocacy is not only about speaking up, but also about building knowledge and staying engaged over time.

The session also highlighted the importance of digital responsibility. Participants reflected on how young people can use online spaces to inform, mobilize, and connect communities, while also countering misinformation and promoting respectful dialogue. Andrea Otieno introduced the PAUSE approach as a useful reminder before sharing information online: Purpose, Accuracy, Understand the Source, Search, and Evaluate.

The conversation also challenged us to rethink what digital leadership really means. As Andrea Otieno noted:

“Popularity, large following and virality is not digital leadership. Responsible influence makes a digital advocate.” 

Participants were also introduced to the AU-EU Youth Voices Lab App, a digital tool that supports young people in learning, sharing their opinions, accessing opportunities, and taking part in youth-focused consultations and advocacy initiatives.

This online session helped participants gain confidence, exchange ideas, and reflect on their role as active citizens and community leaders.

Youthmakers Hub Kenya thanks all participants, speakers, and partners for contributing to this important conversation on youth advocacy, participation, and digital engagement.