In Zimbabwe, USAID is giving youth a voice in their communities. This month, the Young People Initiative was launched to empower youth and help them solve critical issues collaboratively. U.S. Ambassador Charles A. Ray spoke at the launch event, encouraging youth to “think outside the box” while at the same time learning from the successes and failures of their elders. The program will provide a national platform for youth to communicate their needs, concerns and opinions to stakeholders, legislators and policy makers. The initiative kicked off with the first of a series of 30-minute radio programs that will be broadcast regularly and feature special guests. In addition, a call-in center reachable by SMS will serve as a link to service providers and church youth support systems.