Ssenyange
Apollo
A humanitarian leader empowering young changemakers across 54 countries with skills, resources, and platforms for lasting community impact. As the founder of Signals from the Grassroots, he spearheads initiatives that challenge stigma, dismantle barriers, and empower youth to lead.
THE BACKGROUND
Ssenyange Apollo, 24, is a humanitarian leader focused on youth empowerment, gender equality and community-building. He founded the organisation Signals from the Grassroots (SftG), a global platform that addresses the lack of opportunities for young people to tackle urgent social, economic, and environmental challenges in their communities.
Despite wanting to make a difference, many lack access to the support, networks, or platforms needed to take action. To bridge this gap, SftG provides project opportunities, mentorship, leadership development and resources, equipping young people with the tools to make an impact.
SSENYANGE'S LEADERSHIP AND IMPACT
Through SftG, Ssenyange's work has empowered more than 5,000 young people across 54 countries to drive social change and partake in political discussions at both national and global levels. He has implemented impactful programs that break down barriers for marginalized communities and create meaningful opportunities for youth to engage in sustainable development.
One such initiative is the Keep Her in School program, launched by SftG under his leadership to address the crisis of period poverty and stigma, which forces nearly a quarter of Ugandan girls between the ages of 12 and 18 to leave school when they start menstruation. He mobilized volunteers for menstrual hygiene workshops, educating both girls and boys to break the stigma and create a supportive environment where girls can attend school with dignity.
Ssenyange’s efforts has earned him the 2024 Diana Award, recognition as one of the 100 Most Influential People of African Descent, and a place among Africa’s 25 Under 25 leaders. He has also spoken at major global forums, including the UN High-Level Political Forum and the Athens Democracy Forum, amplifying youth voices on the world stage.
LOOKING AHEAD
Continuing his work to address period poverty, in March 2025, Ssenyange will lead the Her Period, Her Right program in Kenya’s Kakuma Refugee Camp, the largest in the world. The initiative is set to produce 1,200 reusable pads, provide tailoring training, and engage men in menstrual health awareness.
By equipping women with practical skills and potential income opportunities, the program seeks to empower them to take control of their health, education, and future.
"To me, trailblazing leadership means daring to empower others to rise above their challenges so they can build a better life for themselves, and eventually others.
Being named a finalist for the WIN WIN Youth Award reaffirms the power of youth-driven actions that define my work at Signals from the Grassroots - in creating sustainable solutions to the world's most pressing issues."
- Ssenyange Apollo