Organization in the spotlight /Young people in the media

Today, the spotlight is on an organization that, as appealing as its tenets are, operates in a rather sporadic fashion. Even though it is not quite discernible in its domain of operation at the local level, its members’ participation tends to focus on international confabs, where these young boys and girls have not only represented this country, but they have always done so well.

Their age limitation notwithstanding, they are seemingly well-off as thanks to the steadfastness of their backers, among them world view, UNICEF, Education for all campaign network, and a multitude of other international organizations.  

Considering the rapid evolution in modernization, with the dominating effect of the technological world, the young people of the Gambia deemed it wise to usher in a body that could advocate for the need to educate them to the highest standard, to match this new and ever changing information age. This, accordingly, includes a clear awareness of how the media influences, shapes and defines their lives.  

The young people in the media (YPM) is an organization that aims to support and consolidate the effort of young people working towards social justice, promoting the rights of the child, grassroots democracy and peace.

Formed in early 2006, YPM seeks to empower young people within the framework of participatory platform for children and young people in the electronic, broadcast and print media, address inequalities among them, protect their rights and wellbeing, among a host of other things.

Aims & Objectives
Key among its aims and objectives are to create a greater understanding of development issues related to children and young people in the media, to give children and the young the opportunity to express their feeling and aspirations, as well as to ensure that the media plays an active role in the social development of young people, with a focus on HIV/AIDS.

Activities

Since its inception, YMP has embarked on a number of activities, notable among them are: organization of quizzes and debates competition touching on pertinent issues concerning children and the young; capacity building; outreach activities; as well as exchange programs.

Membership

Membership is open to all young persons, who must not be above 24 years. Associate membership is also available for those actively engaged in media work, regardless of age.

You can contact YPM at:

Young people in the media

C/O Worldview International, the Gambia

PMB 94

49 Garba Jahumpa Road,

The Gambia, West Africa

Tel. (220) 4496666, 4496990, 7926294, 7215574, 7027536, 9826035, 9860086

Email: youngmediagambia@yahoo.co.uk