On 21 August 2025, AFHEG Foundation joined forces with the American Centre Kampala and the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) to host a pre-dialogue at the American Centre in Kampala. This intimate roundtable gathered 30 young leaders to start conversations that would shape the Young Leaders for Arts and Health Kampala Summit the next day.

Under the theme “How to Advance Public Health Through Youth-Led Creative Advocacy and Policy Influence,” the session created a space for honest dialogue. Young people shared their experiences, from battling misinformation and stigma around sexual and reproductive health to facing mental health challenges and the effects of climate change on well-being. They brainstormed solutions: theatre to challenge myths, digital art to reach peers, storytelling to connect with decision-makers.

The room buzzed with energy. Youth spoke with courage, listened, and left with fresh ideas, stronger networks, and renewed confidence. Insights and recommendations from this pre-dialogue directly informed the summit agenda, showing that when young voices are centred, real change begins.

This collaboration between AFHEG, the American Centre Kampala, and YALI showed the power of partnership. It reminded us that youth do not need to wait for permission; they are ready to lead.

The pre-dialogue was more than an event; it was a spark for a youth-driven health and arts movement in Uganda.

We are grateful to our partners for believing in young people. The conversation continues.

Want to be part of the next dialogue? Join AFHEG’s youth initiatives or volunteer to help amplify these vital voices.