Project TURO

Philippines, 2021

Project TURO: Training and Upscaling Rural Opportunities for Youth leverages the development of a reusable and deployable training program to contribute to increasing the economic resilience of young people from semi- and rural areas. It takes a three-fold approach to its outcomes, specifically: capacitate, connect, and convene. At the end of a 10-month implementation period, the project anticipates improved knowledge and skills for young people, a platform that provides access to information and opportunities, and increased engagement of young people in decisions that matter to them.

Building Bridges to Economic Resilience: The Inspiring Journey of Project TURO

In the heart of the Philippines, where verdant fields stretch as far as the eye can see, a quiet revolution is taking place. It’s not the kind of revolution that makes headlines, but one that is changing lives, one young person at a time. This is the story of Project TURO, a beacon of hope for rural Filipino youth navigating the turbulent waters of economic uncertainty brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

A Mission Born from Uncertainty

The pandemic hit everyone hard, but for young people in rural areas, the impact was particularly severe. Many were just beginning their careers, without the safety nets that older, more experienced workers might have. As young leaders ourselves, we felt the anxiety and vulnerability that came with this new reality. Conversations with our peers revealed a shared concern: how could we, as young people, build economic resilience in such uncertain times?

Project TURO, which stands for Training and Upscaling Rural Opportunities for Youth, was born from this very question. Our mission was clear: to equip young people with the knowledge and skills needed to weather economic disruptions. But more than that, we wanted to create a platform where youth could connect, share experiences, and engage in meaningful dialogue with decision-makers.

The Three Pillars of Change

Our approach was threefold: capacitate, connect, and convene. Over a 10-month period, we aimed to enhance the skills of young people, provide them with access to vital information and opportunities, and foster a space for engagement in decisions that affect their lives.

The journey was not without its challenges. The digital divide in rural areas meant that many of our participants had limited access to the internet. We had to think creatively, sending hard copies of training modules by courier and providing communication subsidies to cover mobile data costs. We also organized smaller, more intimate interactions to ensure everyone could participate fully.

Stories of Impact and Growth

The impact of Project TURO has been profound. Take Maria, for example, a young woman from a small farming community. Before joining the program, Maria felt trapped in a cycle of uncertainty, unsure of how to support her family during the pandemic. Through Project TURO, she gained not only practical skills but also the confidence to start her own small enterprise. Today, Maria runs a successful online store, selling handmade crafts and providing employment to others in her community.

Maria’s story is just one of many. Across the region, young people are stepping up, using the skills and knowledge they’ve gained to create opportunities not just for themselves, but for their communities. The seed funding provided by YSEALI Seeds has been instrumental in turning these dreams into reality, offering a lifeline to those ready to take the leap into entrepreneurship.

Lessons Learned and the Road Ahead

As we reflect on our journey so far, several lessons stand out. The accessibility of training and education during the pandemic is a real issue that demands innovative solutions. We’ve learned that young people’s experiences are often overlooked in policy discussions, highlighting the need for more inclusive dialogue.

Looking ahead, our goals remain ambitious. We aim to continue supporting the development of youth-led micro and small enterprises and to initiate roundtables with government and development actors. These discussions are crucial for ensuring that the voices of young people are heard and that their needs are addressed in policy-making.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Project TURO is more than just a program; it’s a movement. It’s about empowering young people to take control of their futures and to build a more resilient, inclusive economy. For those considering applying to YSEALI Seeds or embarking on a similar journey, we say this: believe in the power of your ideas and the strength of your community. Together, we can create a brighter future for all.

As we continue to build on our successes, we invite you to join us. Whether you’re a young leader looking to make a difference, a policymaker ready to listen, or a community member eager to support, there’s a place for you in this story. Let’s work together to ensure that every young person has the opportunity to thrive, no matter the challenges they face.

Join the Movement

Are you passionate about making a lasting impact in your community, just as Project TURO has done for young entrepreneurs in rural Philippines? If so, now is the time to turn your vision into reality through YSEALI Seeds for the Future 2025. The YSEALI Seeds program supports promising community projects like TURO, which have helped build economic resilience and empowered youth to create thriving micro-enterprises despite challenges like COVID-19. Join a network of changemakers dedicated to economic empowerment and community development. With seed funding and expert support from YSEALI Seeds, you can bring your idea to life and inspire young people to take control of their economic future. Don’t miss this opportunity to make a real difference. Apply today, and be part of a transformative journey that benefits not only you but your entire community. Visit YSEALI’s website to get started now!