In the context of conflict, violence, poverty, and limited healthcare, education or employment opportunities, The Congo Tree supports young people with skills, creativity and hope, and motivates them to work towards peace and sustainable development. Congolese youth are victims generational trauma, vulnerable to exploitation, abuse, recruitment to armed groups and other forms of violence.

This two-year project aims to directly reach approximately 336 young people per year from the areas of Goma, Nyiragongo and Sake in North Kivu DRC. It will equip, inspire and support young leaders living in conflict zones to become solution-makers in their communities, while discovering and developing their skills, talents and leadership ability.

Young people will be invited to apply for the programmes through word-of-mouth, Alumni and partner networks. For young leader applications, the team approach community leaders including teachers, faith leaders and local elders for referrals of young people who have clear leadership potential but are facing particular challenges or barriers to their personal development which could leave them vulnerable or considered ‘at risk’. Application includes a written form (which staff and alumni can help with, where literacy is a barrier) and a community leader reference. Mentors are also invited to an interview. Participants for each group are selected based on the social mix criteria including a requirement for at least 40% female participants, representation of at least three ethnic/tribal backgrounds, and representation of at least three faith groups.

The Congo Tree’s WYLD programme will develop transferable life and leadership skills in 30 young people, establishing them in 15 mentoring pairs and supporting them to design and lead on social action projects in their local community. The Mwanzo Entreprise programme will support 50 alumni in small business enterprises, providing intensive training and a coworking hub to establish their businesses.  Mwanzo Artistigue will mentor 16 young people in peace-building through performance. Across these programmes, 120 young people will also receive psychological support from trained alumni at regular Support and Guidance clubs.

The Congo Tree’s engaged and growing alumni community is testament to their success and the mentoring model and the team has maximised their positive reputation and community links to create life-changing impact for these young people and their families.