In order to be represented in decisions affecting youth, young men and women need to get involved in their communities, learn the issues, problems, and processes. Ethiopian youth need to understand how to create a vision, articulate it and implement it.

Without any leadership opportunities, youth can get frustrated, disappointed, and feel unable to affect their surroundings. Together with potential political instability, unstable economic environment and low wages, these conditions contribute to youth leaving the country to work elsewhere. A study by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development showed that in 2004, 1 million educated people from Less Developed Countries emigrated out of a total skilled pool of 6.6 million - a loss of 15%.   It is estimated that “brain drain” costs sub-Saharan Africa $4 billion per year. Instead of the most educated, ambitious, and skilled youth applying their talents to motivate their communities to improve the lives of their neighbors, these youth leave. Other countries benefit from the product of Ethiopia’s educational investments.

Kasahun has a business degree from a local college. After graduating,

Fuad has been involved in anti-HIV/AIDS youth clubs from primary school.

Freiwot joined a TaYA-supported anti-HIV/AIDS youth club in secondary school.