News

SWIDN Member Lucy Njomo is the Founder and CEO of the African Youth Development Association (AYDA), a UK-based charity supporting the development of young people, including those with additional needs and their families, through education and training. In this blog, we explore Lucy’s journey, the challenges facing young people today, and why access to education and vocational training is a key tool for building stronger, more resilient communities.

From Personal Passion to Community Impact

Lucy Njomo’s journey began with a deep personal commitment to improving opportunities for young people, particularly those facing additional barriers. Her drive led her to establish AYDA in the London Borough of Croydon, where the charity now operates across the capital and beyond. “I’m passionate about providing young people with the tools they need to thrive – education, training, and personal development,” she explains.

In recognition of her dedication, Lucy was awarded the British Empire Medal by HM the Queen in December 2017 for her work in the community. Her efforts extend beyond the UK; she also leads the AYDA Vocational Centre initiative in her native Cameroon, supporting teenage orphans and vulnerable street youth with education and life skills.

Introducing AYDA

AYDA is a community-focused organisation committed to empowering learners through practical skills, cultural awareness, and career-oriented training. Notably, it has been the only local charity involved in Croydon CCG’s FGM Project, uniting professionals from the public and charity sectors to ensure women and girls access the care and support they need.

Beyond advocacy, AYDA provides accredited training for professionals working with young girls and women on managing harmful cultural practices and addressing violence against women and girls (VAWG). “It’s about giving communities the knowledge and support they need to challenge harmful practices while empowering the next generation,” Lucy explains.

What Makes Her Role Rewarding

When asked what she enjoys most about her work, Lucy responds with: “Getting things done – accomplishing tasks that demonstrably support communities.” When she’s not leading AYDA, she dedicates her time to local initiatives, including food banks, recycling, and sewing workshops.

She also values being part of SWIDN as a ‘Friend of SWIDN’ member, aligned with the network’s mission but located outside the South West; “I love their vision of a thriving, diverse network of organisations contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals – particularly SDG4, Quality Education, and SDG5, Gender Equality.”

Current Projects

Lucy’s work spans several vital initiatives:

• VAWG Grassroots: A programme promoting gender equality through education, workshops, and awareness campaigns. The project challenges harmful societal norms and strengthens the community’s response to violence against women and girls.
• Skills for Londoners: Under the Mayor of London’s initiative, AYDA works to increase participation in adult learning for those who need it most.
• AYDA Vocational Centre in Cameroon: This pioneering project provides teenage orphans and vulnerable street youth with vocational training, mentorship, and a safe environment to learn. Land has been acquired, architectural plans drawn, and construction underway.

Making an Impact

AYDA has transformed the lives of young people across communities. For example, refugees and asylum seekers entering the UK have been supported through ESOL (English as a Second Language) classes and vocational training, helping them integrate and contribute to their communities.

“If AYDA could shout one message from the rooftops,” Lucy says, “it would be that we are committed to providing the stability that empowers future generations.”

How Others Can Support AYDA

Lucy encourages collaboration and connection: “Even one small act – connecting AYDA to like-minded agencies – can make a big difference. For our project in Cameroon, we need partners who can help with building expertise, guidance, and funding.”

Challenges remain, including limited public awareness and financial support for UK programmes, and scarce resources in Cameroon. Yet AYDA continues to punch above its weight, engaging with local and national thought leaders to expand its impact.

A Project Close to Her Heart

One of Lucy’s proudest initiatives is the women and girls empowerment programme, tackling culturally harmful practices and promoting gender equality. “It’s all about equipping communities with knowledge, practical skills, and opportunities so that future generations can thrive,” she says.

How to Support AYDA
AYDA can be contacted through its website: www.aydacentre.org

The charity welcomes connections, partnerships, and support for both UK-based programmes and its vocational centre project in Cameroon.SWIDN Member Lucy Njomo is the Founder and CEO of the African Youth Development Association (AYDA), a UK-based charity supporting the development of young people, including those with additional needs and their families, through education and training. In this blog, we explore Lucy’s journey, the challenges facing young people today, and why access to education and vocational training is a key tool for building stronger, more resilient communities.