Research to Change (R2C) Initiative
The Research to Change (R2C) Initiative is an evidence-driven program implemented by Impact 4 Youth Kenya with funding from USAID, through Root Change Organization. The initiative focused on strengthening resource mobilization capacity for community-based organizations (CBOs) to enhance sustainability and locally led development.
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Through this initiative, Impact 4 Youth Kenya conducted capacity-building trainings targeting grassroots organizations, with a strong emphasis on practical skills development. A total of 13 community-based organizations were trained on proposal writing, local fundraising strategies, and budgeting, equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed to mobilize resources effectively and diversify funding sources.
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The R2C Initiative emphasized learning-by-doing and peer exchange, enabling participating organizations to identify funding opportunities, develop competitive proposals, and strengthen financial planning and accountability. By grounding the training in real organizational challenges, the initiative ensured that the skills gained were immediately applicable and responsive to local realities.
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As a direct result of the Research to Change Initiative, participating organizations came together to form an alliance known as SCIFA. The alliance was established to promote collaboration
Cheza Mechi Safe
The Cheza Mechi Safe Project is a youth-centered initiative by Impact 4 Youth Kenya that leverages sports—particularly football—as a tool for HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) prevention among adolescents and young people. The project recognizes sports as a powerful platform for engagement, dialogue, and behavior change, especially among young people who may not be easily reached through conventional health education approaches.
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Cheza Mechi Safe integrates HIV and STI prevention messaging into community sports activities, creating safe and inclusive spaces where young people can learn, interact, and openly discuss sexual and reproductive health issues without stigma. Through organized football matches and sports events, the project delivers prevention education using participatory methods such as peer-led discussions, halftime talks, and post-match reflections that make health information relatable and easy to understand.
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Beyond awareness creation, the project promotes positive social norms, responsible decision-making, and healthy relationships, while addressing stigma associated with HIV, STIs, and accessing sexual health services. Cheza Mechi Safe also strengthens linkages and referrals by connecting young people to youth-friendly HIV testing, STI screening, and prevention services in collaboration with local health facilities.
Badilika Campaign
The Badilika Campaign was implemented by Impact 4 Youth Kenya during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) as a youth-led initiative aimed at promoting positive behavioral change, raising awareness on GBV, and advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) among young people and communities. Rooted in the theme of Badilika—meaning change—the campaign encouraged individuals, especially young people, to challenge harmful social norms, speak out against violence, and support safe, inclusive, and rights-based communities.
Through a combination of community engagements and digital advocacy, the campaign amplified conversations on GBV prevention, bodily autonomy, consent, and access to youth-friendly SRHR information and services. The initiative was implemented with support from Ipas, strengthening evidence-based messaging on reproductive justice and ensuring survivor-centered and rights-affirming approaches throughout the campaign. Overall, the Badilika Campaign contributed to increased awareness, youth engagement, and collective action toward ending GBV and promoting dignity, equality, and justice for all.