Championing youth leadership, SDF leads the youth sector at the Palestinian Network of Non-Governmental Organizations (PNGO)

The Social Developmental Forum (SDF) has been officially elected to lead the youth sector within the Palestinian Network of Non-Governmental Organizations (PNGO), effective as of June 2025. Represented by SDF’s staff member, Yasmeen Muhana, this milestone reflects both trust and responsibility.

This accomplishment reflects SDF’s consecutive efforts and commitment to youth engagement and empowerment in Palestine, especially in the Gaza Strip. It is worth noting that youth in Gaza compromise 21% of the demographic population and have been the most disadvantaged but also affected by political and socioeconomic challenges.

Youth have been significantly affected by the volatile situation in Palestine, lacking both stability and safety. Since the Israeli genocide erupted in October 2023, youth have been lacking structured interventions that respect both their rights and future visions.

At SDF, youth are not marginalized groups that need help, but a driving force to make change. Being elected to lead the youth sector reinforces our commitment to create safe spaces and enhance cooperation to enhance meaningful and responsive youth engagement amid the unprecedented situation in the Gaza Strip.

Yasmeen Muhana, SDF’s representative at the head of the youth sector

A comprehensive vision

Being elected for this post, we understand that it’s not only about coordination, but rather creation, mobilization, and group work. We will utilize this post as a space to reinforce youth representation and boost the capacities of youth-led organizations toward an open, safe, and fair youth atmosphere. We have a clear vision: Partnership is not a choice, but a condition to create a meaningful youth sector.”

SDF recognizes the responsibility it shoulders to unite the efforts of youth organizations within a clear strategy that respects human rights and considers effective planning for humanitarian and developmental efforts.

SDF’s proposal includes the following aspects:

•       Mapping all youth organizations in the Gaza Strip.
•       Establish a priorities-based plan.
•       Foster cooperation and knowledge-sharing between the sector members.
•       Lead collaborative advocacy campaigns, especially in the areas of participation, leadership, and protection.
•       Ensure inclusion and accessibility of all efforts.
•       Enhance accountability, transparency, and feedback mechanisms.

Why SDF?

SDF’s victory in this election reflects its vast but dynamic experience in the youth sector. For years, SDF has been working locally and internationally to advance youth civic, economic, and political engagement.

Youth are at the core heart of SDF’s developmental and relief efforts, whether through capacity building or youth-led initiatives, workshops, sessions, and advocacy campaigns. Not to end with youth-led relief efforts since October 2023.