In a bold celebration of youth dedication and excellence, the SOS Jeunesse et Défi association has officially launched the second edition of the Brave Awards in Ouagadougou.
The initiative, announced on Wednesday, aims to recognise and honour young individuals who have made notable contributions in the fields of sexual and reproductive health rights, entrepreneurship, and cultural development.
Open for applications from August 6 to 15, 2025, the Brave Awards is calling on young changemakers across the country to submit their candidacies via an online Google Form.
Driven by the vision of uplifting youth leaders, the awards are funded by Planned Parenthood Global, through the Billi Now Now movement, and reflect a growing recognition of the critical role young people play in shaping a progressive and inclusive society.
“Brave Awards is an initiative of the SOS Jeunesse et Défi association, aimed at recognizing the merit and distinction of young people and committed actors, who have distinguished themselves positively in favor of the promotion of sexual and reproductive health rights, entrepreneurship and culture,” organisers explained during the launch.
Etienne Koula, representing the executive director of the SOS Jeunesse et Défi association, underscored the long-term vision of the initiative.
“We hope that once these talents are selected as brave, they can climb the ladder and go even further, for example by becoming business leaders and employers of other young people,” he said.
The Ministry of Youth, a long-standing supporter of the initiative, reaffirmed its commitment to the programme’s objectives.
“The SOS Jeunesse et Défi association helps ensure that the Ministry of Youth fully plays its sovereign role with young people,” stated Fidèle Kaboré, representative of the Ministry of Youth and Employment.
A multidisciplinary and multisectoral committee of nine members, including two observers, has been assembled to oversee the selection process. Candidates will be evaluated on various criteria, including community involvement, experience, leadership, creativity, and alignment with the Billi Now Now movement. Eligible applicants must be between the ages of 15 and 24.
The awards ceremony is slated for August 28, and a comprehensive follow-up plan will be implemented to support and mentor the winners on their journey forward.
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