Youth Sustainable Transformation Organisation ( YOSTO)

Established: September 22, 2021 Registration Type: Company Limited by Guarantee Head Office: Kyangwali Refugee Settlement, Kikuube District, Uganda Email: [email protected] / [email protected] Tel: +256 786 157 053 / +257 772 344 37 Executive Director: David Bibentyo Bienfait About YOSTO Youths Sustainable Transformation Organisation (YOSTO) is a humanitarian, inclusion-focused, non- profit organization dedicated to empowering refugees, youth and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). Founded in Kyangwali Refugee Settlement, YOSTO addresses both immediate humanitarian needs and promotes long-term integration, fostering dignity, resilience and self-reliance within refugee communities and host communities. YOSTO’s programs are rooted in compassion, inclusion, and empowerment ensuring that every individual, regardless of background or ability, has a fair chance to thrive. Mission To transform and uplift refugees through comprehensive programs that address their immediate needs and facilitate long-term integration, fostering a sense of belonging and self-reliance. Vision A world where refugee communities thrive, transcending adversity to become integral contributors to the societies they inhabit. Core Values Compassion - Inclusivity - Empowerment - Advocacy - Cultural Sensitivity - Collaboration - Resilience Core Areas of Expertise ● Education & Skills Development: Inclusive literacy (Braille, Sign Language, English), and vocational training in shoemaking, carpentry, mushroom cultivation, beads making, Hair dressing & cutting and juice production. ● Mental Health & Psychosocial Support (MHPSS): Promoting healing and social cohesion through sports, music, dance and drama. ● Gender Equality & Advocacy: Youth-led awareness and leadership programs advancing gender equality and protection against GBV. ● Community Integration: Events that promote peaceful coexistence between refugees and host communities. ● Disability Inclusion: Tailored programs empowering individuals with visual, hearing, and speech impairments. Key Achievements ● Reached over 1,000 (F=404, M=596) participants through MHPSS and community programs. ● Trained 70 youth and adults in sustainable vocational skills. ● Delivered Braille literacy to 15 learners and English literacy to 60 adults. ● Led gender equality campaigns reaching 1500 (M=850, F=650) youth and community members. ● Partnered with Alight and Atlantic Fellows for capacity building and community-based protection initiatives. Strategic Direction ● Strengthening partnerships with NGOs, government agencies, and private sector actors. ● Advocating for inclusive policies that protect refugee and disability rights. ● Enhancing financial accountability, MEAL systems, and sustainable fundraising. ● Expanding programs in livelihoods, education, environmental sustainability, and youth engagement. Governance & Organizational Policies YOSTO upholds a strong governance framework and adheres to internationally recognized humanitarian standards. Core policies include: ● Prevention of Sexual Exploitation, Abuse & Harassment (PSEAH) ● Child Protection Policy ● Anti-Corruption Policy ● Community Mobilization Policy ● Do No Harm Policy ● Governance Redress & Fundraising Policy ● Code of Conduct Commitment to Inclusivity YOSTO centers the needs of refugees and persons with disabilities by ensuring equal access to education, skills development and psychosocial support. Through its inclusive programs, YOSTO empowers individuals to achieve self-reliance, rebuild their lives with dignity and actively contribute to community transformation.