SIYSIFLA

Nolan created his organisation, the Solomon Islands Youth Strive Investors for Liberty Association (SIYSIFLA), in 2010. It was created to support, empower and protect vulnerable young people on the Pacific island with the ambition of preventing their participation in crime. In a country where 66% of the population is under 30 years of age, and only 17% of the working age population have formal jobs, this work is essential for the prosperity of the nation and its people (1).

SIYSIFLA have worked with rural youths on the Solomon Islands through a variety of initiatives designed to engage them in the local community, and reduce crime rates because of improved social inclusion and opportunities. Nolan works in collaboration with the provincial and national ministries, NGOs and youth groups to offer his programme in over 70 rural communities. 

It offers opportunities and development projects in four primary categories. The spiritual programme includes youth festivals and fellowships to ingrain a community spirit in participants and increase their stake in society. The social program includes community service and fundraising initiatives with which participants invest in their own communities. An educational programme has raised civic awareness and taught vocational skills to participants. Finally, fitness and sports projects offer health and wellbeing benefits.

In total, 285 young people have received a formal or informal education as a result, 80 young people regularly engage in sports activities, and over 700 people have received both spiritual and social support.

Source:
(1) https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/feature/2016/09/30/supporting-vulnera…