Amplify Your Voice. Lead the Change. Redefine Research.
Are you passionate about human rights, technology, and creating a world where young voices lead the way? Do you believe young people have the power to shape knowledge, influence decisions, and transform realities? Amnesty International Kenya invites you to join a new generation of young researchers (18 – 24 years) who are reimagining how human rights research is done — by young people, for young people.
About RightUp
RightUp is Amnesty International’s first-ever child and youth-led research project under the Rights Click program. It was co-created by children, youth, and Amnesty teams to ensure young people are not just participants — but leaders and knowledge producers within Amnesty International.
RightUp challenges traditional, adult-centered research approaches by creating meaningful space for youth to lead, contribute, and shape human rights research in ways that reflect their lived experiences, creativity, and diversity. The first edition, launched in the Philippines, explored state-sponsored online harassment of young human rights defenders — setting a precedent for the power and legitimacy of youth-led research within Amnesty International.
Now, RightUp Phase 2.0 is here — expanding this work with a new cohort of passionate young researchers ready to bring forward fresh perspectives, deeper analysis, and youth-led narratives that illuminate the realities behind the data.
Your Role as a Young Researcher
The young researchers’ role (with the support of Amnesty International) is to:
- Identify the focus area of the research within the pre-scoped areas.
- Design the tools for data collection
- Conduct the research by collecting data and evidence
- Participate in the data analysis, verification, and categorisation process
- Draft recommendations based on their findings
- Contribute to the creation of the research outputs
- Participate in the launch and circulation of the research outputs
- Design and lead advocacy moments connected to sharing the research findings
Your responsibilities and commitments as a young researcher
- Actively engage in all aspects of the project delivery as outlined in the role section for a period of 12 – 14 months.
- Attend a series of online workshops.
- Attend a one-week in-person research workshop (5th – 13th March 2026).
- Attend an Analysis and Recommendations workshop.
- Provide regular progress updates and ask for support and guidance as needed.
- Dedicate time to the project each week. The weekly commitment will be heavier in some periods and lighter in others.
- Collaborate with a diverse team of young researchers from Kenya and abroad, sharing experiences and learning.
What You’ll Gain
- Exclusive training & personalized mentoring in research, activism, and human rights.
- Comprehensive well-being and digital security support to ensure a safe and empowering research experience.
- Financial compensation (stipend) to recognize your time, effort, and project-related expenses.
- A transformative learning experience that builds real evidence, influences global decisions, and strengthens your academic and professional growth.
- Global connections with young researchers across regions who share your drive to create change.
Who Can Apply
We are looking for passionate, curious, and committed young people who meet the following criteria:
- Are 18–24 years old.
- Can commit to the full 12–14-month project period.
- Have a desire to learn, grow, and take initiative in leading advocacy efforts.
- Bring your unique identity, background, and lived experiences — we value diversity in all its forms.
- Have strong motivation and curiosity — prior research experience is not required!
- Priority will be given to registered members of Amnesty International Kenya.
- Available for in-person training: 5th – 13th March 2026
We are committed to diversity, inclusion, and participation of marginalized groups. To ensure the campaign reflects Kenya’s rich socio-cultural diversity, applications are open to all young people, regardless of background or discipline.
How to Apply
Ready to join the movement?
Submit your application by 27th October 2025 by clicking on the button below.
For any questions or clarifications, reach out to us at [email protected]
Join Us — Be the Researcher Who Changes the Narrative
At RightUp, we believe that when young people lead research, they lead change. Your story, your insight, and your courage can spark transformation — not only within Amnesty International, but across the world.
Let’s build evidence that uplifts voices, redefines leadership, and creates a world where young people are not just heard — but trusted to lead.