Learn About Who We Are

Our Story

Youth Action International (YAI) was born from the vision and determination to create lasting change for children and young people in post-war African countries. As a child, our founder, Kimmie Weeks, experienced firsthand the devastating effects of conflict in Liberia, which shaped his commitment to making a difference. 

A Childhood Amidst Conflict

During the brutal Liberian civil war, Kimmie Weeks faced unimaginable challenges. As a refugee during the Liberian civil war, he nearly died from starvation and disease. These experiences profoundly impacted Kimmie and ignited his passion for advocacy and humanitarian work. At 17, Kimmie’s outspoken activism against the use of child soldiers made him a target, forcing him to flee Liberia and seek asylum in the United States. Despite the safety he found, his thoughts remained with the children and families suffering back home. This drive led him to channel his personal struggles into a broader mission for change.

Founding Youth Action International

While studying in the United States, Kimmie founded Youth Action International to give students a platform to engage with global issues and make a meaningful impact. The grassroots movement quickly gained traction, transforming into a nationally recognized organization dedicated to supporting children and young people in post-war regions.

 First Steps in Liberia

In 2006, YAI launched its first projects in Liberia, providing humanitarian assistance to build several orphanages and the Becky Primary School, a K-12 facility which continues to provide education for over 800 students every year. The success of these initiatives underscored the urgent need for sustainable development solutions and inspired further expansion.

Expanding Our Reach

With more support, YAI’s program grew to include vocational training projects, microlending, and early childhood education. Operations were also expanded beyond Liberia to Burundi, Guinea, Rwanda, Sierra Leone and Uganda. These countries, although no longer in active conflict, continue to grapple with the long-lasting effects of their past wars. YAI's programs offered a way out to break the cycle of poverty and create pathways to a brighter future through access to education, essential health care, and economic empowerment.

Transforming Lives

YAI’s programs continued to grow and expand through the years, Our programs have positively affected over 1 million lives in six countries in West and East Africa. Today, YAI focuses on three high impact thematic areas: 

Education

• Digital Literacy: Providing children and young people with the skills they need to succeed in the digital age.

Health Care

• HIV/AIDS Awareness and Prevention: Educating communities about prevention and providing access to essential health services.

Economic Empowerment

• Supporting women’s empowerment though the Center for Women’s Empowerment to provide vocational training  and microloans to women.