What is YEP?
Youth Empowerment Program (YEP) is designed to guide young changemakers from the spark of an idea to creating lasting community impact. Our approach combines capacity-building, collaboration, and hands-on project development in a clear 10-step journey. Every stage is crafted to inspire action, strengthen skills, and connect you with a network of motivated peers and experts.
We offer initial workshops and ideation events, guiding young participants to identify issues, form project teams ("Hubs"), and develop thorough project plans with set goals, timelines, and budgets. During a Summit, these Hubs pitch their projects to a panel, and successful teams receive funding for projects lasting 2-6 months and an opportunity to share their experiences at the next Summit.
While our focus is on Turkiye and Central Asia, we invite youth from around the world to join the YEP Portal and follow along each phase in your own time! Although you may not be eligible to apply for a grant, you can take full advantage of the materials we provide, offer your experiences or advice to other Hubs, or form collaborations through this program.
What Does the Process Look Like?
Create your YEP Hubs, build your capacity, and prepare your project proposals.
- Introduction to YEP 2.0
Get inspired by the mission and explore opportunities for impact. - Registration Process
Sign up and choose your preferred project theme. - Capacity-Building Workshops
Join sessions to explore challenges and brainstorm solutions. - Hub Formation
Build teams (Hubs) with fellow changemakers. - Project Idea Development
Create a proposal with goals, budget, and timeline.
Attend the Summit and present your proposal to a panel of judges.
- Transnational Summit – Part 1
Engage in networking, planning, and expert mentoring. - Transnational Summit – Part 2
Present your idea to a jury and compete for funding.
It's time to implement your project!
- Launch your initiative with help from local hub managers
Grant awardees carry out their projects of two to six months while reporting on costs and milestones.
Grant awardees will have an opportunity to present their work in the next Summit and engage in sustainability workshops and networking.
- Sharing Your Success
Showcase your results and inspire others. - Sustaining the Impact
Develop strategies to keep your project growing
The YEP Portal
Once your Hub application is approved, you'll join the YEP Portal to access resources and guidance on project planning, management, proposal writing, budgeting, and more. The portal also features directories to connect you with the broader TTN network, including experts, volunteers, and YEP alumni. You can also collaborate with other Hub members on the portal and share events, success stories, tips, and more. All YEP forms and documents will be conveniently available on this platform.
How Can I Get Involved?
Become a Tarim Ambassador: If you want to contribute to the project rather that pitch projects, you can volunteer as a Tarim Ambassador. Ambassadors assist with regional activities, event organisation, and spreading awareness.
Become a Sponsor: Tarim Network welcomes partnerships with local organisations and businesses interested in providing funding, spaces, or resources for regional hubs. Reach out to our Regional Manager or Program Director to explore opportunities.
Register your Hub: If you're a youth or group of youth with an exciting project idea to empower your community, reach out to a Regional Manager! This program is designed for you. If you're still undecided, feel free to attend an interest event or workshop to learn more. [Follow us on social media to stay up-to-date with future events and deadlines.]
