Since its founding in 2005, CIYOTA has demonstrated the power of resilience and innovation among displaced youth. From the beginning, CIYOTA proved that refugees can be agents of change within their communities regardless of background. This inspiration has led hundreds of refugee youth to initiate projects that tackle the root causes of daily challenges.
Many of these initiatives led by Refugee-Led Organisations (RLOs) span key areas such as education, livelihoods, human rights, safeguarding, and gender equality. Over nearly two decades, CIYOTA has evolved to play a vital role in strengthening the institutional capacity of these RLOs, equipping them to deliver impactful educational, entrepreneurial, and livelihood programs.
We aim to ensure displaced persons live dignified, relevant, and self-reliant lives. We aim to identify and support RLOs working on scalable, high-impact educational, social enterprise, and livelihood programs. By building their leadership and operational capacity, we empower RLOs to become self-sustaining and increase their ability to serve more refugee and host-community youth. These RLOs leverage technology and equip young people with the skills to thrive in an interconnected global economy.
Our Approach
Systems Strengthening for RLOs
We begin by identifying a cohort of RLOs based on clear selection criteria. Each selected organisation undergoes a comprehensive Organisation Capacity Assessment (OCA) to uncover knowledge and systems gaps. A tailored training program is then developed to address these gaps, with core training areas including governance, Monitoring, Evaluation, and learning (MEAL), Financial Management (procedures and reporting), and Information and Communication Technology (ICT). We also work to improve the internal structure and systems of RLOs, creating opportunities for institutional growth and job creation.
Exchange Programs
We facilitate peer-to-peer and organisational-level exchange programs to foster knowledge sharing and collective learning. These exchanges help cement skills that can be cascaded to other institutions and youth. In addition, we support the development of collaborative networks among refugee-led educational institutions to enhance sustainability and strengthen community engagement—ensuring active participation from parents, host communities, and local leaders.
Provision of ICT Equipment and Training
To support effective reporting and program management, we provide computer basics training and supply RLOs with ICT equipment such as Computers, Printers, and Routers. Under exceptional circumstances, CIYOTA may also procure management systems to further enhance organisational efficiency.
Asset Financing for Livelihood Initiatives
We build the capacity of RLO leadership to develop self-sustaining livelihood projects that add value to their organisations while addressing the needs of young refugees. This includes procuring raw materials for value addition and tailoring leadership training to strengthen project sustainability.
Fundraising Support
Once RLOs reach a certain level of growth and capacity, CIYOTA connects them with potential donors from our network. We also continue collaborating with these organisations to amplify their impact through collective action.
Through this comprehensive model, CIYOTA continues to empower refugee youth and RLOs to lead confidently, drive local community-led development, and build a sustainable future where all displaced persons can thrive.