Join Now: eMpowering Youths Across ASEAN Programme (Cohort 6)

Deadline: 25-Jan-2026

The eMpowering Youths Across ASEAN (eYAA) Cohort 6, organized by the ASEAN Foundation and Maybank Foundation, offers organisations the opportunity to implement six-month community projects supported by up to USD 25,000 in funding. The programme engages ASEAN youth aged 19–35 as volunteers to co-design and implement initiatives across Arts and Culture, Education, Community Building, Empowerment, and Environmental Diversity, promoting sustainable local development and youth leadership.

Programme Overview

The eYAA Cohort 6 initiative promotes youth engagement through social volunteerism, connecting passionate young leaders with grassroots organisations across ASEAN. The programme focuses on community-based solutions that address local needs while fostering sustainable development outcomes.

Key Focus Areas

• Arts and Culture: Promote creative expression, preserve cultural heritage, and enhance community identity.

• Community Building: Strengthen neighbourhood cohesion, collaboration, and social inclusion.

• Empowerment: Enhance leadership, capacity, and decision-making skills among youth.

• Education: Improve access to knowledge, skills, and learning opportunities.

• Environmental Diversity: Support sustainable practices and promote environmental awareness.

Funding and Support

• Grant Amount: Up to USD 25,000 per project

• Project Duration: Six months, including preparation and implementation

• Youth Volunteers: Up to 11 ASEAN youth volunteers per project

• Additional Support:

  • Fully funded regional workshop

  • Mentorship and peer-learning opportunities

  • Increased regional visibility through programme communications

Benefits for Organisations

• Implement meaningful community projects with measurable impact

• Collaborate with youth volunteers to co-design and deliver solutions

• Strengthen capacity-building and organisational skills

• Increase regional visibility and network with like-minded partners

• Mentor youth leaders, contributing to future ASEAN leadership development

Who Can Apply?

Eligible organisations are:

• Grassroots or community-based organisations across ASEAN

• Organisations committed to youth development and community empowerment

• Entities capable of hosting, mentoring, and supervising youth volunteers

• Organisations interested in long-term community impact and sustainable development

How It Works

1. Application Submission: Organisations submit a project proposal aligned with programme focus areas.

2. Selection: ASEAN Foundation and Maybank Foundation evaluate proposals based on impact potential, feasibility, and youth engagement.

3. Grant Award and Preparation: Selected organisations receive funding and support, including planning workshops.

4. Implementation: Organisations collaborate with youth volunteers to execute the six-month project.

5. Monitoring and Reporting: Organisations track outcomes and report results to the programme administrators.

6. Showcase and Networking: Projects gain regional visibility, and organisations and youth volunteers participate in workshops and peer-learning events.

Tips for Success

• Ensure projects address tangible local needs and sustainable outcomes

• Engage youth volunteers in meaningful roles, including decision-making and leadership

• Demonstrate clear budget planning and resource allocation

• Highlight regional relevance and potential for replication or scaling

FAQ

1. Who are the youth volunteers?
ASEAN youth aged 19–35, selected to contribute skills, energy, and fresh perspectives to project implementation.

2. How long is the project duration?
Six months, including both planning and implementation phases.

3. What funding is provided?
Up to USD 25,000 per project to cover project costs and volunteer engagement.

4. Which types of projects are eligible?
Projects must fall under Arts and Culture, Community Building, Empowerment, Education, or Environmental Diversity.

5. Can international organisations participate?
The programme is open to organisations operating within ASEAN member countries.

6. Are organisations required to mentor youth volunteers?
Yes, organisations are expected to provide guidance, mentorship, and supervision to the volunteers.

7. How are results shared?
Through programme reports, regional workshops, and communications facilitated by ASEAN Foundation and Maybank Foundation.

Conclusion

The eYAA Cohort 6 programme is a strategic opportunity for organisations to collaborate with motivated youth, implement impactful community projects, and foster long-term sustainable development across ASEAN. By integrating youth engagement, mentorship, and community empowerment, the programme strengthens social cohesion, regional collaboration, and local leadership while contributing to a shared vision of resilient, inclusive communities.

For more information, visit ASEAN Foundation.