Youth Ensemble

About Youth Ensemble

Youth Ensemble (YE) is a youth-led and youth-serving organization based in Stoneridge, Harare, Zimbabwe. Established in 2019, Youth Ensemble works with marginalized peri-urban young people aged 16 to 25, empowering them to take charge of their futures and become leaders of positive change within their communities.

At Youth Ensemble, we believe that young people are not just beneficiaries of development, but active agents of transformation. Our work is deeply rooted in community engagement, lived experience, and trust. We walk alongside young people, understand their realities, and co-create innovative, practical solutions that address economic empowerment, sexual and reproductive health and rights, youth-led climate action, leadership development, and sustainable livelihoods.

Grounded in respect, inclusion, and sustainability, Youth Ensemble delivers grassroots, community-embedded programs that create pathways to dignity, resilience, and opportunity for young women and men in marginalized peri-urban communities.

Our Journey

Youth Ensemble was established in 2019 in Stoneridge, Harare and is registered with the Zimbabwe Youth Council. The organization was created in response to the urgent socio-economic challenges affecting marginalized peri-urban youth, including unemployment, limited access to opportunities, poverty, and social exclusion.

Since its founding, Youth Ensemble has grown into a recognized grassroots organization known for its commitment to youth empowerment, leadership development, entrepreneurship, and community resilience. Through consistent community presence and youth-centered programming, the organization has supported young people to start businesses, develop skills, access services, and strengthen their collective voice.

Over the years, Youth Ensemble has built strong partnerships with government ministries, development organizations, local authorities, and community stakeholders, enabling it to expand its impact while remaining deeply rooted in the communities it serves.

Our Mission

To foster collective youth agency, advance equitable access to socio-economic opportunities, and strengthen sustainable livelihoods for vulnerable young women and men in marginalized peri-urban communities.
Our Vision

An inclusive society where young people are the architects of their own destiny.
Our Core Values

• Respect
• Inclusion
• Trustworthiness
• Consistency
• Sustainability

These values guide our relationships, our programs, and our commitment to accountability and long-term impact.

Who We Serve

Youth Ensemble works primarily with marginalized peri-urban young people aged 16 to 25, with a strong focus on young women and other vulnerable groups. Our programs also engage and support:

  • Youth-led and community-based groups
  • Adolescent girls and young women
  • Emerging youth entrepreneurs and informal traders
  • Community leaders and structures
  • Government institutions and local authorities
  • Development partners, NGOs, and private sector stakeholders

Through inclusive engagement, we ensure that youth voices are central to development processes and decision-making.

What Sets Us Apart

Partners, communities, and young people trust Youth Ensemble for our authenticity, accountability, and deep community roots. What sets us apart:

  • Youth-led and youth-centered approach
  • Strong grassroots presence and community trust
  • Integrated programs addressing economic, social, and environmental challenges
  • Proven experience in youth empowerment and livelihoods development
  • Commitment to transparency, learning, and sustainability
  • Strong partnerships that expand opportunities and impact

We believe lasting change is achieved when young people are empowered to lead solutions that affect their own lives and communities.

Learn More About Youth Ensemble or Get in Touch

Would you like to learn more about Youth Ensemble, collaborate on youth-focused initiatives, or support our work? We welcome partnerships, community engagement, and opportunities to work together in advancing youth empowerment and inclusive development.

Contact Us