Our History
Where Our Story Began
The YOTTCO idea was conceived in 2012 by a group of three unemployed youths who at that time were aiming at creating own job opportunities and passing on the skills to other unemployed youths. At inception the main pressing challenges at that time were persistent youth unemployment and the high HIV/AIDS prevalence among young people.
In order to address these twenty first century challenges, the initiators started engaging in practical entrepreneurship and subsequently established Income Generating Activities to sustain their lives. In due course the group started to mobilise more unemployed youth and started passing on the practical skills while integrating life skills and HIV/AIDS awareness information.
The earlier Skills Development partnerships with Kampala City Council Authority (KCCA) and the American Embassy (2013/2014) saw the skills development project grow into a formidable project, empowering many vulnerable youth in Kampala.
Despite the much focus on internally generated resources in earlier years, after incorporation as a company limited by guarantee in 2017, YOTTCO started to evolve, building systems and fostering partnerships at community, national and international level.
What began as a simple community initiative slowly evolved into an organisation dedicated to empowering vulnerable urban youth to become self-reliant, healthy, and productive members of society.
Becoming a Recognised Organisation
As community engagement grew, so did the need for structure, legitimacy, and institutional recognition.
In August 2012, YOTTCO was officially registered as a Community Based Organisation (CBO) under Kampala Capital City Authority. Later, the organisation strengthened its legal foundation by registering as a Company Limited by Guarantee with the Uganda Registration Services Bureau.
This milestone marked a turning point:
Stronger governance
Organised leadership
Structured programs
Opportunities for partnerships
Increased trust among communities and stakeholders
YOTTCO was no longer just an idea it had become an institution of hope.
From Small Beginnings to Meaningful Impact
Over the years, YOTTCO has evolved into a vibrant youth empowerment organisation impacting thousands of adolescents and youth.
Through:
- Practical entrepreneurship and vocational skills training
- Business mentorship and enterprise support
- Sexual and reproductive health awareness and services
- Youth talent development through sports, music, dance and drama
- Community engagement and mentorship initiatives
Young people are gaining confidence, opportunities, knowledge, and hope.
Lives are transforming.
Communities are strengthening.
Futures are changing.
Our Journey Continues
From humble beginnings to a growing youth-focused organisation, our journey is far from over.
Guided by our vision, supported by strong partnerships, and inspired by the resilience of young people, YOTTCO remains committed to empowering youth to live productive, healthy, and dignified lives.
The story continues and every young person we empower writes the next chapter.
