YKnow Our Founder: The Story Behind EYE
Behind every movement that transforms lives, there is a story—one of courage, resilience, and a vision for something greater. At the heart of Education for Youth Empowerment (EYE) stands a leader whose journey reflects the very mission of the organization. Today, we invite you to get to know the man who turned adversity into purpose: Alex Woja Santino, the Founder and Executive Director of EYE.
A Journey Shaped by Experience
Alex’s life has been shaped by the realities of conflict, displacement, and the struggle for access to education. Growing up within the refugee experience, he understood firsthand the challenges young people face when the world around them becomes uncertain. Yet, instead of allowing these hardships to silence him, Alex turned them into a source of strength and determination.
His early experiences built in him a deep belief:
Every young person—no matter their circumstances—deserves the chance to learn, grow, and build a future with dignity.
This conviction would one day become the foundation of EYE.
Turning Vision Into Action
Driven by a passion for community empowerment, Alex founded Education for Youth Empowerment (EYE) with a clear mission:
To break barriers and create opportunities for children and youth through education, protection, and livelihoods.
Under his leadership, EYE has grown from a small idea to a dynamic, community-rooted organization delivering impactful programs across refugee and host communities. Whether it is helping children return to school, empowering young mothers with skills, or promoting peace and environmental sustainability, Alex ensures that EYE’s approach remains deeply human-centered.
A Leader Who Inspires
What sets Alex apart is his unwavering commitment to young people. He is not only a founder—he is a mentor, an advocate, and a voice for the unheard. His ability to mobilize communities, build partnerships, and inspire hope has earned him respect across the humanitarian landscape.
Colleagues and community members describe him as:
A visionary leader who sees solutions where others see challenges
A compassionate advocate for vulnerable children and youth
A committed mobilizer who brings people together for collective action
A role model reminding young people that their dreams are valid
Building a Future of Possibilities
Through EYE, Alex continues to champion a future where education opens doors, skills create independence, and empowered youth become the leaders their communities need.
His message to the younger generation is simple yet powerful:
“Your background does not define you—your determination does.”
As EYE expands its impact, Alex’s leadership remains a guiding force ensuring that the organization stays rooted in dignity, compassion, and opportunity for all.
