Partner Spotlight: Evelyn Yucailla

By: Jordan Taylor

Building Community, Empowering Youth, and Leading with Purpose in Ecuador

At the heart of Youthlinc’s work in Ecuador is Evelyn Yucailla, an architect, community organizer, and passionate advocate for youth and women as drivers of lasting change.

Evelyn serves as the Director and Program Coordinator of Fundación Nukari, one of Youthlinc’s key in-country partners in Ecuador. Her work centers on community development, youth leadership, gender equity, and human rights, particularly alongside Indigenous women and young people. With a background in architecture and urbanism, Evelyn also contributes to broader efforts around urban safety and inclusion through the Safe and Sound Cities initiative; bringing both technical expertise and deep social commitment to every space she enters.

Born and raised in Ambato, Ecuador, Evelyn draws constant inspiration from her community’s resilience, creativity, and strong sense of solidarity. “Even in difficult contexts,” she shares, “people come together, support one another, and work collectively to improve their lives and their cities.” That spirit of collective action is what fuels her work and what makes her partnership with Youthlinc so powerful.

Evelyn’s path into community development was shaped by hands-on experience. Working directly with communities, she witnessed how deeply inequality affects women and young peopl and realized that technical solutions alone are not enough. This understanding led her to focus on participatory, community-led approaches that center local voices, leadership, and long-term ownership.

No two days in Evelyn’s work look the same. From coordinating with community leaders and facilitating workshops to managing partnerships and responding to emerging needs, her role is dynamic and deeply relational. It’s this flexibility and commitment that allows real impact to take root.

Growing Together: Youthlinc & Ecuador

Evelyn’s connection with Youthlinc began through Fundación Nukari’s founder, Norma Ureña, whose early relationships helped establish Ecuador as a Youthlinc service country. Evelyn initially joined the effort as a volunteer herself. Over time, she stepped into greater leadership and now directs the foundation continuing to strengthen and expand the partnership.

Since 2024, Youthlinc volunteers have partnered with Fundación Nukari and local communities in Guamote, supporting initiatives focused on community development, youth engagement, education, and cultural exchange. For Evelyn and the community, this partnership represents more than a program. It’s a shared journey built on trust, learning, and mutual respect.

“I’ve seen young people, especially women and youth gain confidence, leadership skills, and a stronger sense of belonging,” Evelyn reflects. Even small shifts, like increased participation or collective organization, can create lasting change.

What makes her most proud? Seeing young women and youth recognize their own power and step into leadership roles within their communities.

She leaves Youthlinc participants and supporters with a powerful reminder:

“Community work is not about saving others, but about learning, sharing, and growing together.”

Looking Ahead

Evelyn dreams of communities that are inclusive, safe, and led by empowered youth and women, where participation and human rights are central to development. She’s especially excited about strengthening international partnerships, expanding youth-led initiatives, and continuing to connect urban development with gender equity and community well-being.

Outside of her work, Evelyn finds joy in painting and coloring, spending time in nature, savoring good coffee, and engaging in deep conversations. Her favorite places? The everyday spaces where community life happens; neighborhoods, public spaces, and cities full of stories.

A phrase that guides Evelyn’s life and work says it all:

“If not now, when? And if not me, who?”

For Evelyn, this phrase is important to her because it reminds her and every one of us that change begins with personal responsibility and action. It can push you beyond waiting for the “right moment” or for someone else to take the lead. In her work with communities, this mindset encourages individuals to act with courage, commitment, and purpose. It is a constant reminder that meaningful change happens when we decide to take responsibility and be a part of the solution.

Evelyn’s guiding question challenges all of us: If not now, when? And if not me, who?

Youthlinc believes meaningful change doesn’t wait for the perfect moment or the perfect person. It begins when each of us looks at our community, recognizes a need, and chooses to engage. We encourage you to take a look at your own community. Notice the needs, the gaps, and the opportunities for connection. If you see a call for change, choose to show up. Take responsibility. Be part of the solution.

Wherever you are, and however you’re able, we invite you to step forward and be part of building a more connected and compassionate world.