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We believe young people are often better able than adults to identify and articulate their needs regarding sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). To mark International Youth Day, Rutgers is sharing stories from youth advocates around the world, showing how instrumental these young people are in finding solutions that work for them and for their communities. This is the story of Nicaise Cyrille Tchihou.
Nicaise is a 24-year-old leader from Benin, and dedicated to advocating for women’s rights, with a particular focus on safe abortion. As the National Treasurer of the Board of Directors of the Youth Action Movement (YAM) in Benin, Nicaise is firmly committed to fight for gender equality.
Growing up in Benin, Nicaise witnessed the numerous challenges women face, especially regarding their bodily autonomy and sexual rights. “I believe that everyone deserves the same opportunities, regardless of gender,” he says. He observed how women were often denied the right to make decisions about their own bodies and sexuality, leading them to make risky choices. “In Benin, the number of women who die due to unsafe abortions is alarmingly high. This reality worries me, but it also motivates me to work harder to ensure women have the bodily autonomy they deserve.”
“I am proud to say that our youth movement now consists of over 1,000 volunteers, of which at least 400 are young men!”
Stepping up as a man for gender equality
Gender inequalities are deeply rooted in Benin’s culture, says Nicaise. “Advocating for women’s rights is often met with resistance”. “When you step up for women’s rights, people at church, school, or university might accuse you of pursuing a western agenda,” he shares.
“I sometimes felt like giving up, and it took a lot of perseverance to keep going. I have learned to navigate these hostile environments. I felt supported by my fellow peers and by dedicated mentors within ABPF. It is so motivating that, despite the difficulties, I can see positive changes around me; young men who now see gender inequality as an issue and who start to speak up themselves.”
Benefit from young people’s contributions
Nicaise believes that involving young people in decision-making processes is crucial. Quoting Confucius, he says, “Tell me and I will forget, show me and I may remember; involve me and I will understand.” He emphasises that young people bring new perspectives and fresh energy. “By investing in our development and involving us in decision-making bodies, organisations can truly benefit from our contributions.”
To young people who want to be more involved, Nicaise advises, “Have confidence in yourself and your ideas. Never underestimate your impact. Be proactive, creative, and seize opportunities. Don’t be afraid to take the initiative. The biggest mistake you can make is not trying. The world needs young, dynamic leaders to drive change. We are young, and the world needs us. So get involved!”