Youth Advocacy Network
A dynamic, passionate group of young people supporting our fellow survivors in Northern Uganda.
Empowering Youth Affected by Conflict
We at Youth Advocacy Network Uganda (YANU) are Children Born of War ourselves and so we understand the challenges and the needs of our beneficiaries all too well.
The circle of life, belonging. Where every step forward is a step together.
A Powerful Voice
YANU has emerged as a powerful voice for the youth affected by the legacy of war in Northern Uganda. Through collaborative efforts, YANU strives to address the unique challenges and opportunities faced by children born of war, advocating for their rights, empowerment, inclusion, and active participation in shaping policies and programs that affect their lives.
YANU provides safe spaces and arts-based healing modalities for youth survivors to process traumatic experiences and memories through creative self-expression. We source skilled practitioners to facilitate: art therapy, healing dance, storytelling and theater, beadwork and crafts, and so much more.
Core Programs
PSYCHO-SOCIAL SUPPORT
HEALTHCARE SUPPORT
EDUCATION & LIVELIHOODS
We offer counseling, support groups, and creative self-expression to promote healing and resilience.
Treatment for physical and mental health issues, as well as check-ups, vaccinations and menstrual hygiene.
We source funding for school fees, scholarship programs, and vocational training opportunities.
Our Impact
Healing Art Therapy
We uses creative self-expression such as drawing, painting, sculpting, or collage, as a way to explore emotions, process experiences, and support psychological healing. Rather than focusing on artistic skill, it emphasizes the process of making art as a safe, nonverbal channel for thoughts and feelings that may be difficult to articulate.
Healing Dance Workshops
We use guided movement, rhythm, and embodied expression to help participants reconnect with their bodies and release stored muscle memories. Trauma often disrupts a person’s sense of safety and bodily awareness; structured, culturally sensitive dance practices can gently restore agency, regulation, and trust through breath, grounding, and shared movement.
Calming Nature Meditation
Trauma can leave the nervous system in a state of hypervigilance or numbness; guided practices that focus on breath, sensory awareness, and the sights and sounds of nature help restore a sense of safety and present-moment stability. Sitting beneath trees, listening to birds, or feeling the earth under one’s feet can anchor attention in the body and gradually calm stress responses.
Story of Change
YANU has emerged as a powerful voice for the youth affected by the legacy of war in Northern Uganda. Through collaborative efforts, YANU strives to address the unique challenges and opportunities faced by children born of war, advocating for their rights, empowerment, inclusion, and active participation in shaping policies and programs that affect their lives.
