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About YES Foundation

Empowering Tanzanian youth through education, therapy & sustainable development since 2002

OUR STORY

Rooted in community

YES (Youth Empowerment and Sustainable Development Foundation) was founded in 2002 by Frank Materu with a single purpose: to unlock the potential of Tanzania's youth. What started as a small community initiative has grown into a comprehensive support network offering special needs therapy, vocational training, and early childhood development.

We believe that every young person deserves access to quality education, healthcare, and mentorship. Over the past two decades we have supported over 5,000 children and trained 200+ therapists and teachers.

5000+
Children Supported
15+
Therapy Programs
2002
Established
Youth empowerment
OUR PURPOSE

Mission & Vision

Mission

To empower Tanzanian youth through education, leadership, and sustainable development, fostering a generation of changemakers.

Vision

A self-sustaining society where youth lead with innovative solutions, shaping a brighter future for all Tanzanians.

Goal 2030

Impact 100,000 youth through therapy, entrepreneurship training, and community leadership programs.

OUR JOURNEY

Key milestones

2002

Inception

YES founded by Frank Materu, starting with after-school mentoring for 30 children.

2022

Early Childhood

Launched ECD programs reaching over 5,000 children with thematic learning.

2023

Community Drive

Recruited 200+ volunteers and strengthened community partnerships.

2024

Infrastructure

Upgraded therapy centres and trained 50 new special needs educators.

2026

Digital reach

Launch of teletherapy services and expansion into three new regions.

OUR TEAM

Meet the leaders

Frank Materu

Founder & Director

25+ years in youth development; founded Ekklesia Day Care and YES Foundation.

Elina Shirima

Program Manager

Oversees all therapy and education programs, occupational therapist specialist.

Jackline Nnko

Community Coordinator

Builds partnerships and mobilises volunteers across Tanzania.

OUR PARTNERS

Collaborating for impact

Thank you to our generous donors

"Your generosity lights the way for countless youth in Tanzania. With your support we are building a brighter future, empowering young minds, and changing lives one donation at a time."

β€” The YES Team

REACH US

Contact & Location

Our Office

8 Umoja St. 16105, Saranga, Ubungo, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania