Over the weekend, Reach A Hand Uganda launched the GN Trybe, a community of empowered young people. GN Trybe, short for Generation Now Trybe, is a community for the Gen Z (1997–2012) and Gen Alpha (2013–2015). It is a youth-centered behavioral change communication initiative designed to respond to the evolving challenges young people face today.
The initiative uses bold and innovative strategies to raise awareness and reduce sexual and reproductive health risks that often limit young people’s right to quality education, mental well-being, and a healthy, empowered life.
Over 200 young people ranging from secondary school and university students to out-of-school youth attended the event, alongside teachers, school administrators, and international students from Colorado State University. The launch was marked by a mix of engaging discussions, networking opportunities, and edutainment activities such as games and music.
The event featured the inaugural Patrons’ Conference, a forum for teachers and administrators from various educational settings (private, public, and international), representatives from the Ministry of Education and Sports, and peer educators from Reach A Hand Uganda to collectively highlight issues faced by students and together come up with solutions.
This conference follows the on boarding of various schools in the country to activate RAHU Clubs (GN BEATs). There are hubs and safe spaces where students can access age-appropriate Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights information and other life skills in fun, engaging, and meaningful ways.
The theme of the conference was;“Building Empowered and Transformed Youth: Challenges and Solutions,” focusing on discussing the role of patrons in empowering young people. Patrons are responsible adults in schools most of which are teachers who oversee the activities of the GN BEATS in schools.
It highlighted practical strategies that patrons can implement to promote positive behavior among students. Given that teachers and students spend over 75% of the calendar year together in school, the development of students’ lives is significantly influenced by the interventions of schools, clubs,educators, and the broader communities around them.
Humphrey Nabimanya, CEO of Reach A Hand Uganda, called for a renewed commitment to guiding the next generation with empathy, relevance,and resilience.
Reflecting on the journey from early peer education initiatives to the birth of GN Trybe, he spoke passionately about the shifting dynamics of youth culture, the rise of digital influence, and the changing role of educators.
“Today’s young people no longer just need information—they need connection, mentorship, and real-life role models,” he emphasized urging educators and youth influencers to adapt to these changes by creating spaces where young people can grow not only in knowledge but in character and purpose.
Henry Semakula from the Ministry of Education and Sports outlined key policies currently in place to support youth development, with a particular focus on sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and mentorship in schools.
These include the mandatory presence of senior men and senior women teachers in every school to provide direct support to students, it’s a must for schools to have talking compounds, the establishment of formal guidance and counseling programs, and the re-entry policy that allows teenage mothers to return to school and complete their education.
Most patrons highlighted the growing emotional and behavioral challenges facing students today,including isolation, identity crises, and the effects of digital exposure.
Some of the solutions highlighted were strengthening guidance and counseling channels and creating safe spaces through student-led clubs like GN BEATs (RAHU Clubs) that provide students with mentorship, mental health awareness, and life skills development.
Furthermore, the musicians who performed at the event used their platforms to amplify messages on mental health and youth empowerment.
“There are a lot of challenges facing young people today—especially around mental health—which lead to anxiety, depression, and untold suffering,”Choosen Blood noted. “Whenever you encounter such struggles, don’t keep silent. Speak out, and seek mentorship.”
Both Daxx kartel and Ykee Benda conquered: “Young people should be bold and energetic. This is a stepping stone in your career because you’re being mentored and prepared to shape your future.
