Mohamed Abdi

Mohamed Abdi is the Founder and Director of Youth Empowerment Support (YES), a youth-led community-based organization dedicated to empowering refugee youth and communities in Malaysia through education, leadership, and social inclusion. Originally from Somalia, Mohamed’s personal journey as a refugee has shaped his deep commitment to building hope, resilience, and opportunity for others facing displacement and hardship.

YES operates under five key focus streams:
1️⃣ Children and Youth Education – improving access to quality education and leadership opportunities.
2️⃣ Women and Girls – promoting gender equality, equal opportunities, and empowerment.
3️⃣ Well-being and Empowerment – supporting mental health, awareness, and personal development.
4️⃣ Community Support – enhancing integration and social cohesion among refugees and locals.
5️⃣ Marginalized Group Protection & Empowerment – advocating inclusivity, dignity, and equal rights for all vulnerable and minority groups.

Beyond refugee initiatives, YES also supports local Malaysian B40 communities, extending assistance during emergencies such as floods, fires, and other crises. The organization continues to stand with all who face hardship, regardless of background or status.

Under Mohamed’s leadership, YES has led impactful programs that empower women, youth, and children through education, skill-building, leadership training, and awareness on health, gender-based violence, and climate change. Through collaboration with nonprofit organizations, local communities, and refugee-led community-based organizations (CBOs), YES creates safe, inclusive spaces that foster learning, unity, and empowerment.

Mohamed deeply values the kindness and solidarity of local Malaysian friends and volunteers, whose continuous support strengthens YES’s mission. A strong advocate for gender equality, youth participation, and social justice, Mohamed believes in empowering every individual to become a leader of change and compassion in their community.

To me, making an impact means creating real, lasting change that improves lives and uplifts communities. It’s about empowering others with knowledge, opportunity, and hope so they can lead their own transformation. True impact happens when change continues even after we step back when people feel inspired, capable, and connected to build a better future together.