In a remote rural village in Gwanda, there lived a bright and ambitious 18-year-old young woman named Thandie. Having recently completed her secondary education, she was preparing for the transition into adulthood, where new opportunities, independence, and responsibilities were beginning to shape her future. However, she noticed that many young women in her community lacked access to reliable information about sexual and reproductive health, relationships, and life planning. Some had been forced to pause their education or career aspirations due to unintended pregnancies or health challenges linked to sexually transmitted infections. Thandie often wished there was a safe space where young people could access accurate information and make informed decisions without fear or stigma.
One Wednesday morning in January 2024, CYDT introduced a youth-focused initiative called “Know Your Options” within Thandie’s community. The programme created an interactive and supportive learning environment where young people could openly engage with mentors, explore sexual and reproductive health topics, and ask questions freely.
During the programme, the CYDT mentors introduced participants to an important sexual and reproductive health approach known as the “Double Shield” strategy. They explained that this strategy involves combining two forms of protection to support informed and responsible decision-making around sexual health. First, it encourages the use of modern family planning methods to prevent unintended pregnancies. Second, it promotes the consistent use of condoms to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.
Thandie listened attentively as the mentors emphasized that every young person has the right to accurate information and access to services that support informed reproductive health choices. The programme encouraged participants to take responsibility for their health and future by understanding their options and making decisions aligned with their personal goals, education, and aspirations. For Thandie, the information was empowering and eye-opening. She realized that knowledge was a key tool in navigating adulthood with confidence and clarity.
To strengthen understanding, CYDT organized a knowledge-sharing and reflection activity at the end of the programme. Thandie actively participated and confidently answered questions about the Double Shield strategy and how it supports sexual and reproductive health. Her peers recognized her understanding and engagement, and she felt proud of how much she had learned.
The initiative was a strong success. By December 2024, CYDT had reached more than 500 young people across ten communities with these important health messages. As a result, 400 participants reported increased confidence in making informed sexual and reproductive health decisions. In addition, local youth-friendly health services recorded a 30 percent increase in young people seeking information and guidance.
Inspired by the experience, Thandie chose to become a peer advocate for sexual and reproductive health awareness within her community. Reflecting on the programme, she shared:
“Before CYDT, many of us were unsure where to find reliable information about sexual and reproductive health. Now, I feel better informed, more confident in my choices, and empowered to make decisions that support my health, education, and future goals.”
Through initiatives such as Know Your Options, CYDT continues to equip young people with the knowledge and confidence they need to make informed choices, protect their health, and pursue their aspirations.