Ghanaian journalist and gender activist Regina Asamoah has been honoured with the United States Department of State IVLP Impact Award Grant for 2024. Her project, "Young Voices Matter," aims to equip young children with the skills necessary to combat gender-based violence (GBV).

According to the US Department of State, 120 applicants from 101 countries were selected for the grant, with financial support provided by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. The Meridian International Center will serve as the implementing partner for these projects globally.

Young Voices Matter: Empowering Boys and Girls

Regina Asamoah’s project stood out among over 600 submissions worldwide. The "Young Voices Matter" initiative focuses on raising awareness about gender-based violence among children and creating a safe and supportive environment for both boys and girls.

The project will be implemented in Accra in partnership with Missing Children Ghana, an organization dedicated to reuniting missing children with their families.

This award follows Ms. Asamoah’s participation in the 2023 IVLP on Gender-Based Violence, held in the United States. She joined eight other advocates from Africa for the three-week exchange programme organized by the US Department of State in partnership with the Cleveland Council on World Affairs, Global Ties Akron, and Gulf Coast Diplomacy.

Learning and Exchange in the United States

During the IVLP programme, Regina Asamoah interacted with US-based organizations advocating for the rights of children, women, and human rights. She visited six states, including Washington, D.C., Louisville, New Hampshire, Boulder, Colorado Springs, and Denver, gaining insights into GBV and American culture.

Expressing her gratitude, Ms Asamoah emphasized that the award is a victory for every child facing GBV. "I do not consider this award a personal achievement. It is an achievement for the young people. It is a victory for every child and young person who has faced GBV, those who are being abused and bullied into keeping mute. Together, we will amplify their voices and create lasting change," she said.

Impact of "Young Voices Matter"

The "Young Voices Matter" project aims to make a substantial difference in the lives of children and young people across Ghana. It empowers young boys and girls to recognize and prevent GBV, providing vital support to survivors. The project also aims to create a generation of youth who are active agents of change in ending GBV in schools.

Project Activities

The project will engage 100 pupils from two selected schools in educational sessions designed to equip them with the knowledge and tools to combat GBV. These sessions will be supplemented by a workshop for 10 teachers, empowering them to address GBV issues within their classrooms and school communities. A training manual will be developed for the teachers to ensure project sustainability. Additionally, two compelling 5-minute documentaries will be produced from the training sessions.

The International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP)

The IVLP, a professional exchange program funded by the US Department of State, was launched in 1940 to build mutual understanding between the United States and other nations. It connects leaders with their American counterparts through short-term visits, cultural exchanges, and professional networking opportunities. Participants are nominated and selected annually by US embassy staff worldwide.

IVLP Impact Awards

The IVLP Impact Awards, implemented by Meridian International Center in partnership with the US Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, recognize and support innovative projects proposed by IVLP alumni. These awards provide financial and logistical support to help implement projects that address critical social issues and contribute to community development, fostering a global network of leaders committed to positive change.

Regina Asamoah’s "Young Voices Matter" project exemplifies the power of education and community involvement in addressing GBV, setting a promising precedent for similar initiatives in the future. "My IVLP Impact Award Project will stand as a beacon of hope in the ongoing struggle against GBV. Together, we can cultivate a future where every individual can live free from fear and oppression," she stated.