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Y&U Governance

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Governance Details

Youth and Urbanism Governance

At Youth and Urbanism, we are committed to fostering clarity in our organization's motivation, purpose, and long-term stability. This is achieved through a strong foundation of guiding principles, organizational structure, and robust oversight mechanisms. By regularly reviewing and upholding these elements, we ensure our work empowers young people to shape sustainable, inclusive urban environments.

1. Vision, Mission, and Values

We believe in building a sense of shared ownership and collective commitment among our team, partners, and the youth we serve. This is driven by clearly articulated and widely embraced goals that guide our urban development initiatives, youth empowerment programs, and community advocacy efforts.

Vision/Mission Checklist

Subsection Checklist Yes No N/A Comments/Quality Notes
Does the organization have a vision statement, mission statement, and statement of values? Yes Statements are comprehensive and youth-centered, emphasizing urban innovation.
Are the vision and mission used to set priorities? If so, please describe how. Yes Priorities are aligned during annual planning sessions to focus on youth-led urban projects.
Are these statements posted openly in the office or somewhere that staff and visitors can see? Yes Displayed prominently in our Nairobi office and on digital platforms for accessibility.
Are the statement(s) used in Talent Acquisition materials (i.e., staff handbooks, orientation materials, job descriptions, etc.), organizational brochures, reports, and proposals? Yes Integrated into all HR docs and outreach materials to reinforce our urban youth focus.
Does the organization regularly review the vision and mission statements (for example, in conjunction with strategic and/or operational planning)? Yes Reviewed biannually with input from youth stakeholders for relevance and impact.

Our Goals for Vision and Mission

Our vision and mission are designed to be:

  • Clear, specific, and forceful: Providing a vivid understanding of what Youth and Urbanism aspires to achieve in transforming urban spaces through youth engagement.
  • Well-communicated and broadly held: Shared across our community via workshops, social media, and events to inspire collective action.
  • Consistently used to direct actions and set priorities: Guiding decisions on projects, partnerships, and resource allocation to advance urbanism and youth governance.

2. Governing or Advisory Board

Our Governing or Advisory Board plays a vital role in ensuring commitment, expertise, and effective oversight. Board members bring diverse knowledge in urban planning, youth development, and governance, providing strategic guidance, support, and accountability to our staff and operations in Nairobi and beyond.

Governing or Advisory Board Checklist

Subsection Checklist Yes No N/A Comments/Quality Notes
Does the board have clearly defined terms of reference (TOR) that detail its primary duties? Yes TOR outlines duties focused on youth urbanism strategies.
Are board roles clearly differentiated from the executive roles? Yes Roles separated to maintain independence and focus.
Are there clear and documented criteria for becoming a board member? Yes Criteria emphasize urban expertise and youth advocacy.
Are there term limits and a system for electing or approving board members? Yes Limits ensure fresh perspectives; elections via member vote.
Does the board meet regularly and document its decisions with minutes? Yes Quarterly meetings with detailed, accessible minutes.
How are board members involved in strategic planning, resource mobilization, and developing and approving organizational policies and budget and annual financial statements? Yes Actively participate in planning and approvals for impact.

Our Goals for the Governing or Advisory Board

We aim for:

  • A strong, diverse board: Composed of members with relevant experience in urbanism, youth empowerment, and policy.
  • Regular and well-documented meetings: Ensuring transparency and accountability in decision-making.
  • Thoughtful, consistent, and careful oversight: Aligned with the board's functions as defined in the terms of reference, supporting sustainable urban youth initiatives.

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