The YouthKonnect Summit 24, held in Kigali from November 10 to 11, 2024, brought together an inspiring assembly of youth leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to explore solutions for youth empowerment and development across Africa. Representing AASAP Finder, Richard and I proudly participated as youth delegates under the Hanga SRHR section. Over two transformative days, we showcased our digital platform, engaged with influential figures, and gained invaluable insights to propel our mission forward.
The first day of the summit focused on introductions and networking, setting the stage for collaboration and exchange. Delegates and attendees gathered in a vibrant environment designed to foster meaningful connections and conversations. For AASAP Finder, this was an invaluable opportunity to introduce our digital platform, which provides vital SRHR resources through a user-friendly website and chatbot. By engaging in discussions with other delegates, we were able to share our vision of empowering youth with accessible information while gathering informal feedback and gauging interest in our work.
The networking activities on day one illuminated a shared enthusiasm for digital health tools, particularly in the SRHR space. The potential for partnerships was clear as we met with like-minded individuals and organizations committed to advancing youth empowerment. The energy of the summit underscored the importance of collaboration, and we left the day with new connections and ideas to explore further.
Day two shifted to deeper discussions and more formal engagements. A highlight of the day was hosting UNFPA delegates at our exhibit. This interaction provided an invaluable opportunity to showcase AASAP Finder’s platform, discuss challenges in SRHR accessibility, and receive constructive feedback on how to enhance user engagement. The insights we gained emphasized the need to prioritize inclusivity and usability, particularly by offering diverse language options and simplifying navigation.
Beyond our exhibit, the day was filled with inspiring moments, particularly during the Hanga PitchFest Awarding Ceremony. Witnessing other youth-led initiatives demonstrated the power of innovation and determination in addressing pressing societal challenges. Their creativity and commitment served as a powerful reminder of the collective potential of youth-driven efforts.
The feedback and inspiration from the summit provided clear recommendations for the path forward. Refining the AASAP Finder platform to improve accessibility and user experience is now a top priority. Additionally, we plan to deepen the partnerships initiated during the summit and explore opportunities for collaborative projects. The enthusiasm and feedback also reinforced the value of participating in future pitch events, both to secure funding and to amplify our reach in the SRHR advocacy space.
The YouthKonnect Summit 24 was more than an event; it was a call to action. For AASAP Finder, it reinforced our commitment to leveraging technology to advance SRHR and empowered us with the tools and connections needed to take our efforts to the next level. As we look ahead, we are energized by the ideas exchanged, the partnerships formed, and the collective drive shared by everyone in attendance. The summit was a testament to the transformative power of youth-led innovation and collaboration in shaping a brighter, healthier future for Africa.
