Adolescence is tough for young people everywhere. That's especially true in rural Madagascar, where youth have limited access to health information, quality education, and youth-friendly services. 

Projet Jeune Leader has a model for comprehensive sexuality education that works. Their scripted content is tailored to local realities and delivered through handpicked, open-minded middle school teachers, who offer continuous coaching and mentorship. Beyond the classroom, they provide a full support package, including after-school activities, and a system for medical referrals. Community workshops create space for parents to give feedback, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Maia Ramarosandratana founded Projet Jeune Leader and is now the Executive Director. She moved to Madagascar as a young kid and returned there after college to launch the project with some unexpected seed funding. Maia holds a Master’s in Public Health from Johns Hopkins and has been recognized as a leader in global development through fellowships with the Issroff Family Foundation, Gratitude Network, and Youth Action Net, among others. She speaks English, French, and Malagasy.