What is one method to engage youth in community health initiatives?

Engaging youth in community health initiatives through youth-led health campaigns or workshops is effective because it empowers young people to take ownership of their health and the health of their communities. This approach not only increases their investment in the initiatives but also ensures that the programs are relevant and resonate with the youth’s perspectives and needs. By involving them directly in the planning and execution of health campaigns, youth can use their creativity and insights to develop strategies that appeal to their peers, promoting greater participation and impact.

Additionally, youth-led initiatives foster leadership skills among participants, build confidence, and promote a sense of community. This method encourages collaboration and peer education, which can be more impactful than traditional methods as young people often respond better to messages and activities that originate from their own age group.

While conducting online surveys can gather valuable data, it lacks the direct engagement that youth-led initiatives provide. Setting up youth advisory boards, while beneficial, often requires adult guidance and may not fully engage the youth in taking initiative. Relying on adult leaders to make decisions diminishes the opportunity for youth involvement and disconnects them from the process, which may lead to less effective outcomes. Hence, allowing youth to lead in health campaigns or workshops is the most effective approach in engaging them in community health