A powerful journey for ethnically diverse boys aged 8-18 in Scotland to build confidence, find their voice, and lead with purpose in a safe, inclusive space.
The SUSO Boys Project is a key, transformative strand of the Baba Yangu Foundation’s Stand Up Stand Out (SUSO) programme. This social development program is specifically designed to empower ethnically diverse children and adolescent boys aged 8-18 in Scotland.
We provide a safe, inclusive space where boys can build positive relationships, feel seen, heard, and valued, and develop the essential skills and confidence needed to thrive in all aspects of life.
Growing up can present unique challenges, and for ethnically diverse boys in Scotland, these can include navigating racial stigma, battling low self-esteem, experiencing isolation, and facing discrimination. The SUSO Boys Project directly addresses this critical need for gender- specific, culturally safe interventions that uplift and empower these young men. Our programme offers culturally responsive content and mentorship that reflects their lived experiences, helping to counteract negative impacts and foster a strong sense of belonging and cultural pride.
Fun, connection, and cultural pride are absolutely central to the SUSO Boys experience, creating lasting memories and a strong sense of brotherhood. Our sessions are designed to be engaging, interactive, and fun, fostering genuine connection and cultural pride:
Collaborative activities that enhance social and problem-solving skills through peer learning.
Facilitated conversations where boys can openly share, learn from each other, and build trust.
Opportunities for new experiences and bonding outside of regular sessions.
Engaging activities like art and music allow for self-expression and creative exploration.
Guided sessions focused on building leadership capacity and interpersonal growth
The SUSO Boys Project is dedicated to nurturing the holistic development of every participant. Through our structured interventions, boys gain invaluable skills and experiences:
The project focuses on improving mental well-being by creating a supportive space that fosters emotional resilience and positive identity formation. Boys learn coping strategies and decision-making skills, helping them navigate challenges confidently.
We offer a safe, expressive environment where boys can openly discuss life challenges and build emotional awareness, empathy, and self-regulation.
The programme actively encourages leadership, with older boys delivering sessions and supporting younger ones through storytelling and mentorship. This peer-led approach fosters deeper engagement and provides relatable role models.
The project champions a youth-led approach, with participants actively involved from the design phase through to delivery, ensuring the programme truly resonates with their needs and interests.
Participants are equipped with practical life skills essential for their personal growth and future success.
The project connects boys to broader community opportunities, helping them explore pathways to university, apprenticeships, jobs, or starting their own businesses.
We prioritize mental, physical, and emotional well-being, enhancing social and emotional learning within a holistic framework.
Are you ready to stand up, stand out, and stand strong with the SUSO Boys Project? We invite families, young people, and potential supporters to join our mission in empowering the next generation of confident, resilient, and socially aware young men.
Fill in our sign-up form below!
If you are under 16, a parent or guardian must complete the form on your behalf.
A team member will be in touch shortly to collect more details and let you know when the next meet-up is. You’ll also be connected to the SUSO Boys Youth Forum, a space for ongoing connection and voice.
