HAY! is a collaborative initiative launched in 2020 by Mbarara University of Science and Technology (through Healthy Child Uganda), the University of Calgary (Canada), and Bushenyi and Rubirizi Districts. Using co-designed approaches, HAY! strengthens health and education systems to be ready to serve and enhance adolescent and young people (ages 10–24) wellness. Guided by implementation science and national priorities, HAY! promotes district-wide engagement, capacity building, and innovation across schools, health facilities, and communities, empowering youth as key agents of change.

The HAY! package includes participatory workshops, media campaigns, and community activities that address nutrition, puberty, reproductive health, mental wellness, and gender-based violence. To date, thousands of volunteer community health workers, hundreds of health providers, community and school leaders have received training and in turn, undertook community-led actions and health promotion, reaching over 1 million people across three districts. Results include reduced teen pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections, improved health-seeking behaviors, stronger adolescent–adult relationships, and lasting cultural shifts toward adolescent-friendly health care. Supported by the Government of Canada (Global Affairs Canada), HAY! continues to inspire community-driven solutions for adolescent health in Uganda and beyond.