Grantee Name: Heal The Youth Foundation

Location: Plateau

Project Summary: Empowering HIV-Affected Women and Girls in Plateau State This initiative will equip HIV-positive and HIV-affected women and girls in Plateau State with the tools and opportunities needed to become resilient, economically empowered, and socially active change-makers within their communities. It targets 50 HIV-positive women aged 25–40 and 20 young girls aged 15–24, alongside two women-led Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) from Jos North and Jos South LGAs.

The project’s core objectives include strengthening the economic independence of women through vocational and enterprise development, improving access to savings and microfinance services, and enhancing the capacity of existing VSLAs for sustained business growth and market access. By offering leadership development, conflict resolution training, and value-chain integration, the project boosts the financial and social capital of its participants.

In addition to economic empowerment, the project promotes community engagement and social inclusion by fostering supportive networks. Activities include village square stakeholder meetings, community sensitization on national guidelines for women and girls’ empowerment, and engagement with LGA and state-level actors to support policy adoption—particularly around nutrition and social protection.

A unique component of the project is the inclusion of storytelling and digital expression, where young girls will commemorate international awareness days by sharing stories of resilience and empowerment through social media. This initiative not only amplifies their voices but also reinforces their roles as emerging community leaders.

Through strategic partnerships and a comprehensive approach, the project contributes to poverty reduction, improved livelihoods, and increased participation of women and girls in community decision-making across Plateau State.