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Today, the USAID-funded Social Innovation in Central Asia program, implemented by the Eurasia Foundation, launched the second Central Asia Youth Leadership Academy (CAYLA) including a cohort of 179 young leaders from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan participating in an online opening ceremony. 

CAYLA is a platform for young activists from across Central Asia that supports learning, networking, expanding leadership skills, and making a positive impact on the development of youth and their communities. Through CAYLA, participating youth learn foundational skills in community engagement and leadership which they can then apply in community development projects that are supported by USAID’s Social Innovation in Central Asia program through small grants and technical assistance.

In his opening remarks at the ceremony, USAID Central Asia Deputy Mission Director Peter Young highlighted the important role the youth play as partners and leaders in development. “Young leaders around the world are a source of great potential that can be harnessed to improve the world we live in, bridge inequalities, and accelerate development.” He added, “I am thrilled when I see young Central Asian leaders volunteering, improving lives, advancing social change, and building startups and companies, addressing market demands with new ideas and ventures.”

The conference brought together the CAYLA team, instructors, the new cohort of young leaders, and alumni. During the conference, participants of the second cohort were introduced to the program overview, and heard from CAYLA alumni about their experiences, opportunities through CAYLA, and past participants successes. 

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 USAID is the world’s premier international development agency and a catalytic actor driving development results. To know more, visit the USAID Central Asia website and Facebook page.

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Заместитель директора миссии USAID в Центральной Азии Питер Янг
Заместитель директора миссии USAID в Центральной Азии Питер Янг