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Empowering Potential. Shaping Futures.
Every generation reaches a point where silence is no longer an option and waiting is no longer acceptable. The Young Adults Development Network (YDN) was born from such a moment. It was not created as a reaction but as a deliberate act of vision, crafted by organizers, rooted in lived experience, and committed to raising a generation of principled, prepared, and fearless leaders.
Our Beginning: A Conversation that Refused to End
YDN emerged in 2025 from a meeting between two leaders at the Friends Committee on National Legislation's Spring Lobby Weekend Conference in Washington, D.C. Fiston Mututsi, a Congolese-born refugee and community organizer shaped by the trauma of war and the strength of survival, and Serge Kagabo, a pastor mentoring displaced youth through healing, faith, and leadership.
They did not come from power or privilege. But they came with a purpose. They did not have institutional funding. But they had urgency. They didn't wait for permission. They started with what they had.
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2025 - D.C. Follow-Up Newsletter
Washington, D.C. 2025, Young Leaders Step Into the Halls of Power
In late July, our friends and partners in Arizona stood with us, hosting a community conference and even a spirited soccer match to help raise the funds needed for our journey to Washington, D.C.
Their solidarity helped us raise over $8,000, making it possible for the Young Adults Development Network (YDN) to take our next step as a national movement.
But what happened in D.C. was bigger than any single fundraiser.
Strategic Programs for Youth Leadership
Our programs are based on real-life experiences and global insights from leaders of change. They are designed to help young people become ethical, skilled, and highly effective professionals. Our training doesn't just teach; it inspires. We combine modern methods with a deep understanding of local needs. This ensures every participant gains not only knowledge but also the powerful wisdom to create real change in their communities and beyond.
Learn About Our Strategic Objectives
The Young Adults Development Network (YDN) exists to equip young people with the tools to lead change, not just hope for it. Our strategic objectives reflect our deep commitment to building strong, ethical, and capable youth leaders who can shape their communities and futures with confidence.
Each objective is designed to address real needs through leadership development, practical education, peacebuilding, community development, and economic empowerment. Together, they form the foundation of a movement that is building not only individual success but collective progress.
Minembwe 2050: A Vision for Peace and Progress
The Minembwe Capital Development Project 2050 is a long-term plan to strengthen Minembwe through peace, sustainable growth, and community empowerment. This initiative is guided by young leaders working alongside community members to build practical solutions in education, infrastructure, business, and cultural preservation. Our vision is to create a capital that reflects the resilience, dignity, and potential of its people, while preparing the next generation to lead with integrity and purpose.
Learn more about how this project is shaping the future of Minembwe and how you can take part in its development.
We’re Here to Help.
No question is too small, no concern is too big. Our team is ready to listen, guide, and support you every step of the way.
Our work is led entirely by volunteers, young people who are deeply committed to building leadership, advocacy, and opportunities in their communities. While we may not always have the resources of a large institution, we promise to respond with care, respect, and commitment to every request we receive.
Upcoming Trainings
The Movement Builders’ SummitDate and time is TBDLocation is TBD
YDN Graduation ConferenceDate and time is TBDLocation is TBD
Voices That Move Nations ConferenceDate and time is TBDLocation is TBD
Lead the Change ConferenceDate and time is TBDLocation is TBD
From Struggle to Strategy ConferenceDate and time is TBDLocation is TBD
Roots & Revival ConferenceDate and time is TBDLocation is TBD
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