Young Social Innovators

Ireland
Lebanon
Zambia
01. Networking
03. Capacity Building Programs
05. Mentoring
13. Impact Investing Funds
18. Awards

Young Social Innovators empowers young people to reimagine the world into one that is more caring, equal and fair, and to come together to bring their ideas to life. Through engagement in YSI and, through our research and advocacy, young people are given a voice and agency on the issues that matter to them.

About

Young Social Innovators

Young Social Innovators (YSI) is an Irish organisation dedicated to empowering young people to reimagine and reshape the world for good through social innovation. Founded 25 years ago, YSI serves youth aged 15–24, particularly those in schools (Transition Year and Youthreach students) and community settings. The organisation offers a range of programmes, workshops, and initiatives designed to help young people identify real-world social issues, develop creative solutions, and drive meaningful change in their communities. YSI provides toolkits, resources, training, funding opportunities through its Social Impact Fund, and recognition via awards programmes. It operates regionally across Ireland and emphasises youth-led innovation, collaborative problem-solving, and practical implementation of ideas.

This summary was created with the help of AI and might not be 100% accurate.

Programs

Activate

A social innovation programme designed for Transition Year and Youthreach students. Registration is open for participants to engage in structured learning and project development.

Sprints

A 10-hour Micro-Module designed for Transition Year students. Fast-paced, action-oriented programme where participants explore real-world issues and develop creative, actionable solutions in a short timeframe.

YSI Youth Panel

A leadership programme for young people aged 15–24 who are passionate about social change. Panel members lead projects, shape campaigns, and co-create the future of youth-led social innovation.

YSI E-Learning Course

A free, self-paced online course teaching participants how to tackle major social issues using social innovation approaches. Certificate awarded upon completion.

Social Impact Fund

A funding initiative providing financial support to young innovators to implement their social innovation projects and ideas.

Workshops and Training

Regular learning lab sessions and workshops offered through YSI to build skills in social innovation, project development, and community engagement.

Events

YSI Awards 2025

Annual awards programme recognising and celebrating outstanding youth-led social innovation projects and teams across Ireland.

Related initiatives

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