Theory of Change

Problem Statement

Why SWISH ACT?

Context & Challenge

Youth in coastal Kenya, particularly out-of-school and at-risk boys as well as adolescent girls, face limited access to safe spaces, positive mentorship, life skills development, and leadership opportunities. These challenges are compounded by gender inequality, psychosocial stress, and growing climate-related vulnerabilities. While sport is highly attractive to young people, it is rarely structured in ways that intentionally deliver broader developmental outcomes.

Long-Term Impact

Young people in coastal Kenya are empowered to lead healthy, confident, and productive lives, contribute positively to their communities, and challenge harmful social norms, resulting in stronger, more resilient communities.

Outcomes Pathway

Long-Term Outcomes

  • Improved life skills, confidence, and leadership among youth

  • Increased gender equity and participation of girls in sport and leadership spaces

  • Improved mental well-being and emotional resilience

  • Greater youth engagement in positive community and environmental action

Intermediate Outcomes

  • Youth demonstrate improved decision-making, teamwork, and communication

  • Girls report increased confidence, agency, and sense of safety

  • Youth mentors and peer leaders emerge from programs

  • Reduced risky behaviors and increased school or skills re-engagement (where applicable)

Short-Term Outcomes

  • Regular participation in safe, structured sport spaces

  • Increased knowledge of life skills, health, and well-being topics

  • Strong, trusting relationships between youth and mentors or coaches

  • Increased awareness of gender equality, mental health, and climate issues

Key Activities

  • Basketball training and sport-for-fun sessions

  • Structured life skills and mentorship workshops

  • Girls-only empowerment sessions

  • Peer mentorship and youth leadership development

  • Community engagement activities (such as tournaments, clean-ups, and dialogues)

  • Coach and mentor training using a standardized curriculum

Outputs

  • Number of youth regularly participating in programs

  • Number of trained coaches, mentors, and peer leaders

  • Number of girls engaged in safe sport spaces

  • Frequency of mentorship and life skills sessions delivered

  • Community activities implemented

Assumptions

  • Sport remains a strong and consistent entry point for youth engagement

  • Trusted mentors and coaches can positively influence youth behavior

  • Families and communities are willing to support youth participation

  • Girls’ participation increases when safe, intentional spaces are created

External Factors & Risks

  • Economic pressures affecting youth participation

  • Cultural norms that may limit girls’ engagement

  • Limited access to professional mental health services

  • Environmental and climate-related disruptions

Risk Mitigation: SWISH ACT mitigates these risks through proactive community engagement, flexible programming, strategic partnerships, and established referral pathways.