Empowering, educating, and protecting orphaned and vulnerable children — ages 4 to 17 — living in the squatter settlements of Epworth, Zimbabwe.
"We do not run a closed-door orphanage. We run a community — one that meets, eats, learns, and heals together."
Welcome to the official online home of the Young Africans Transformation Trust (YATT). We are a registered non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for the welfare of orphaned and vulnerable children in the marginalized squatter communities of Epworth, on the outskirts of Harare, Zimbabwe.
We target children from ages 4 to 17, stepping in to build a solid spiritual, moral, and physical foundation so they can reach their biggest dreams — even when the world around them has offered almost nothing.
Keeping kids in school by breaking down the financial barriers that stand between them and the classroom.
Providing essential foodstuffs so no child suffers from hunger, malnutrition, or distraction from an empty stomach.
Giving young girls and youth the personal hygiene resources they deserve to live, learn, and lead with confidence.
Teaching vital moral and spiritual lessons that heal trauma, build character, and restore a sense of belonging.
YATT was born out of a deep calling — a shepherd's heart that could no longer look away. The trust was founded by Pastor Mike Sakula, who walked daily through the squatter settlements of Epworth and encountered children orphaned, abandoned, hungry, and unseen.
As a pastor and a father to his community, he could not unsee what he saw. What started as one man's response — gathering a few children for a meal, a prayer, a moment of dignity — has grown into a registered trust, a community of caregivers, and a daily commitment to feed, teach, and protect.
The work is also deeply personal. It carries the memory of loved ones lost too soon — cherished spirits whose lives continue to inspire every child we serve.
In loving memory of:
The Young Africans Transformation Trust (YATT) is an authentic, community-driven organization registered in Zimbabwe. We do not operate a traditional closed-door orphanage or children's home.
Instead, we operate a vibrant community-based drop-in center in Epworth where our children meet regularly. At this center, we create a safe space to feed them, teach them moral and spiritual lessons, and offer critical socio-psycho support to help them overcome daily hardships.
The children we serve live in a squatted settlement in Epworth. The space where we gather them for safety, learning, and meals is under constant threat because we cannot always meet the monthly rent.
We advocate against early child marriages and encourage children to stay in school — the most reliable bridge out of poverty they will ever have. When we can, we supply stationery, books, and uniforms so nothing holds them back.
At our center we run structured lessons — mathematics, language, scripture, and life skills. We recently purchased new whiteboards so children can follow lessons clearly, even in a room with no proper desks.
Every girl deserves to attend school and participate in community life with confidence and dignity. Unfortunately, many vulnerable teenage girls lack access to basic personal care. We are working to close that gap.
We provide structured feeding programs at our center to combat malnutrition and ensure every child who walks through our doors leaves nourished, not just educated.
Caring for orphaned and vulnerable children is an act of pure love.
These children did not choose poverty or hardship, yet they carry heavy burdens. When you give to YATT, your generosity restores dignity, builds self-belief, and gives hope. No donation is too small. Together, we can change a child's life — and keep a roof over their heads.
Volunteer via WhatsApp →Please donate, share our message, and help us reach more kind-hearted people across the globe. If you want to volunteer, partner with us, or drop off supplies, get in touch with our team.
