Empowering the Future: DoTheDream Youth Development Initiative

By Joshua T. Berglan

Award-Winning OmniMedia Producer & Int’l Best-Selling Author | Board Advisor, Global NGO | Empowering Underserved Communities with 'Media Company in a Box' | Advocate for #IndependentMedia & #MediaMonetization

May 16, 2025

Introduction

In a world brimming with challenges, there’s a light shining brightly through the efforts of DoTheDream Youth Development Initiative (DoTheDream YDI). This non-governmental, non-religious organization is on a mission to harness the power of education—both formal and informal—to develop and empower young people to spark transformative change in society. With a bold vision of "Building the Youths for Sustainable Development," DoTheDream YDI isn’t just talking about a better tomorrow; they’re rolling up their sleeves and making it happen. As Joshua T. Berglan, I’ve been privileged to witness and support this incredible movement, and today, I want to share why it resonates so deeply with me—and why it should inspire you, too.

My Journey and Connection to DoTheDream YDI

For those who don’t know me, I’m Joshua T. Berglan—an award-winning filmmaker, producer, and international bestselling author. But those titles don’t define me as much as my journey does. I’ve walked through the fires of adversity—addiction, trauma, and setbacks that could have broken me. Yet, through faith, resilience, and a commitment to turning pain into purpose, I’ve emerged with a burning passion to empower others. That’s why DoTheDream YDI’s work speaks to my soul.

Through my platform, The World’s Mayor Experience , I’ve used media and technology to amplify voices, foster community, and drive sustainable change. DoTheDream YDI’s mission aligns seamlessly with this vision. Their focus on education as a tool for empowerment mirrors my belief that knowledge and opportunity can unlock the potential within anyone, no matter their circumstances. When I see DoTheDream YDI equipping thousands of young Nigerians with skills and hope, I see a reflection of my own calling—to inspire, uplift, and prove that every dream is within reach when we dare to act.

The Heartbeat of DoTheDream YDI: Transforming Lives

DoTheDream YDI operates in the Social Development Space, with a laser focus on Education & Gender Equality. Their work is guided by a powerful acronym—SINCERE: Sacrifice, Innovation, Nurturing, Credibility, Empowerment, Resilience, and Excellence. These aren’t just words; they’re the DNA of every program they run. Let’s dive into what they’re doing and the lives they’re changing.

Education Leadership

DoTheDream YDI believes that education is the foundation of progress. Their programs include:

Career Sessions and Mentoring: Guiding youth toward purposeful futures.
Soft Skills Training: Equipping them with communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
Read to Build Project: Igniting a passion for reading across six episodes annually, impacting students term by term.

These initiatives don’t just teach—they transform young minds into leaders ready to shape their communities.

Gender Equality

DoTheDream YDI is breaking down barriers and lifting up girls and women with projects like:

Girls Are Asset Project: A powerful conference that awakens girls to their inherent worth and potential, reminding them they’re here to thrive, not just survive.
Girls in Energy Project: Over 300 girls have been empowered to explore engineering and technology—fields where they’re historically underrepresented. From generating electricity with lime to transforming waste into wealth, these girls are rewriting the narrative.
16 Days of GBV: Tackling gender-based violence head-on, fostering safer, more equitable communities.

This work doesn’t just empower individuals; it redefines what’s possible for entire generations.

Entrepreneurship Innovation

DoTheDream YDI knows that economic independence is key to sustainable change. They’re fueling this through:

Entrepreneurship Training: Turning ideas into actionable businesses.
Technical/Vocational Skills Acquisition: Providing hands-on skills for real-world success.
Financial Support: Offering grants, loans, and mentorship to kickstart dreams.

From tech hubs for undergraduates to ideation workshops for unemployed youth, DoTheDream YDI is planting seeds of innovation that will bloom into thriving economies.

A Bold Goal

Over the next year, DoTheDream YDI aims to impact 14,789 young people in Nigeria. Their 2024/2025 strategy includes upgrading libraries, back-to-school scholarships for 460 secondary students, and observing United Nations international days like International Day of Education and International Women’s Day. Every step is intentional, every program a building block toward a sustainable future.

Why This Matters

I’ve learned through my own life that the greatest victories come from the hardest battles. DoTheDream YDI’s work proves this every day. Take the "Girls in Energy Project"—301 girls impacted, four energy projects showcased, and a new wave of female innovators launched. Or consider the leadership seminars in secondary schools, amplifying teenage voices and aligning them with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This isn’t charity; it’s an investment in humanity’s future.

The numbers are impressive, but the stories behind them are what move me. A girl who once thought her dreams were out of reach now designs solutions for her community. A boy who felt lost now leads with confidence. These are the diamonds DoTheDream YDI is unearthing—raw potential polished into brilliance.

A Call to You

Here’s where you come in. DoTheDream YDI’s mission is powerful, but it’s not a solo act. They need partners, supporters, and dreamers like you to keep the momentum going. Whether it’s donating to fund a scholarship, volunteering your skills, or spreading the word, your involvement can ripple out to touch thousands of lives.

Visit www.dothedreamydi.org , email dodedream@gmail.com , or reach out at +1 (410) 369-8525.

I’ve seen what’s possible when we believe in people. I’ve lived it. DoTheDream YDI is living it. Now, let’s make it happen together. Let’s empower the youth, build the nation, and turn dreams into reality—one inspired action at a time. Will you join us?

Thank you for reading!

Joshua T. Berglan
"The World's Mayor"

Vice President of Growth and Development at DoTheDream YDI | Award-Winning Filmmaker | Bestselling Author | Empowering Youth through Education & Media