It’s a busy Saturday for Gak Malek, the Program Co-ordinator at YouthZone72. . The weekly radio show is about to air, and one of the featured guests has fallen ill. With just hours to go, Gak makes a flurry of phone calls and finds a replacement. “Our audience expects the best, and it’s important that we have the most informed guests on the show,” he says with relief. This week’s topic? Dowries —what are the rules, and what do dowries mean for young people today.
YouthZone72 is no ordinary radio show. Launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, this groundbreaking radio show provides a “safe space” for young people to discuss aspects of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) including gender-based violence, what is consent, adolescent health, mental health, financial literacy and much more. Airing every Saturday at 4:00 p.m. on EYE Radio and streamed live on Facebook, the program reaches an average of one million listeners weekly, with an additional 5,000 tuning in via Facebook Live. In four years, YouthZone72 has become one of the most informative, inspirational and inclusive youth radio programs in South Sudan. To make it inclusive, the radio program offers sign language interpretation for the persons with hearing impairment and the deaf community during its Facebook broadcasts—something no other radio show in South Sudan does.
The name YouthZone72 isn’t just catchy—it reflects a powerful truth. Approximately, seventy-two percent of South Sudan’s population is under 35 years old, making it the not only the youngest country, but one pf them with the youngest populations globally. After years of conflict, young people face tremendous challenges. YouthZone72 steps in by offering them a safe, judgement-free space to talk about their health, relationships, and futures, no matter their ability, HIV status, gender or background.
At the heart of every episode is a young expert, who tackles pressing SRHR-related questions, along with a guest, sharing personal stories of survival —whether from gender-based violence or addiction. These discussions are essential, especially for young women, who often feel excluded from these spaces. As Gak explains, “SRHR isn’t just about condoms. It’s about who you are as a person, your rights, your relationships with family and friends, and your role in the community. Our decisions impact more than just ourselves.”
Behind the scenes is a passionate and committed team with Gak, including Alex Wysocki-Najar (Communications Lead Canadian Association of Midwives) , from the Canadian Association of Midwives; Kezia Kayanga (Commercial Program Manager -EYE Radio); Baria Johnson, the show’s dynamic host; and Grace Anviiko, the sign language interpreter, ensuring the program’s reach extends to all corners of the community. But the impact doesn’t stop at the radio. YouthZone72 also produces magazines and comic books, providing youth centres across the country with resources that address critical issues like consent and adolescent health, reinforcing the show’s message.
One memorable moment for Gak was when the show featured a young man who had lost both parents, was abused, and grew up homeless. Against all odds, he found support, went to school, and is now studying medicine at the University of Juba. “His story reflects the experiences of so many young people facing incredible challenges in their daily lives, yet rarely do they hear stories of others who have overcome similar struggles. That’s where YouthZone72 comes in—giving young people the chance to be inspired by their peers.” explains Gak. “This story is just one example of how YouthZone72 inspires young people by showing them that overcoming adversity is possible.”
With plans to expand, Gak and his team are committed to empowering even more youth across the nation. “The challenges are big, but so is the potential,” says Gak. “We’re investing in the next generation, and that’s the key to a brighter future.”
Tune in to YouthZone72 every Saturday at 4 p.m. on EYE Radio and Facebook Live. With your support, we can create a brighter future together. YouthZone 72 returns to the air March 2025
You can watch previous Facebook live broadcasts here:
https://www.facebook.com/eyeradioss/videos/1098580401243301
https://www.facebook.com/eyeradioss/videos/1562788541263960
https://www.facebook.com/eyeradioss/videos/3728730304057157
YouthZone72 is part of the UNFPA-led HR4 project, funded by Global Affairs Canada. The show is produced by the Canadian Association of Midwives in collaboration with Shabab le Shabab and the South Sudan Nurses and Midwives Association.
