The Meaning Behind “Yati”
The word “Yati” is derived from the Swahili word Yatima, meaning orphan. I first encountered this term in high school in Ghana, often during Sunday visitation hours when local students received gifts and affection from their families. For those of us from orphanages, these moments were mentally taxing. To cope, we would tease each other by calling one another “Yati.” Over time, the term became an identity marker for all students from orphanages.
Yati is derived from the Swahili word “Yatima,” which means orphan.
The Unique Struggles of Orphaned Youths
Though we shared the common tragedy of losing our parents, our struggles differed from those of orphans raised in family homes. The absence of a fundamental support system made transitioning into broader society much harder. Beyond food and shelter, we lacked essential guidance in identity formation, mental health, mentorship, and capacity building—factors critical for navigating school, workplaces, and social settings. Without this vital link, many orphaned youths face low self-esteem, a diminished sense of belonging, and an increased risk of mental health challenges later in life.
The Birth of Yatilink
Reflecting on my own experiences as a former orphan at SOS Children’s Villages, I recognized the gaps in support that could have eased my transition beyond the orphanage. These reflections and later experiences in life led me to establish Yatilink. This NGO serves as a bridge between orphanages and the outside world, ensuring that youths leaving institutional care are equipped with the skills, confidence, and support needed for successful reintegration into society.
How Yatilink Supports Youth Transitions
At Yatilink, we focus on capacity-building reintegration projects designed to empower young people for life beyond orphanages. Our programs address mental health awareness, mentorship, personal development, and career readiness. By providing the necessary tools and support, we aim to strengthen the confidence, identity, and overall well-being of orphaned youths, helping them integrate into diverse communities and workplaces successfully.
Join Us: Empowering Futures Beyond Orphanages
Yatilink represents more than just a support system—it is a movement to create lasting change for orphaned youths in Zambia. Together, we can build a future where no child leaving an orphanage feels lost or unsupported. Join us in being the transitional link that empowers these young lives.
The Yatilink Youth Development Center (Yatilink) represents a significant opportunity to close the gap between the orphanages and the outside world for orphaned youths in Zambia.
