Who We Are

Children and teenagers look at the world from a very different perspective than adults. They have their own unique thoughts, views and opinions. Adults can learn from their brightness, curiosity, honesty, humour, playfulness, positivity, seriousness and spontaneity. A third of the world’s population is under 18. They are a very important part of society. Every day we see children in the media, but seldom or never do they tell their own story. These young voices must be heard.

How did it start?

The Youth News Foundation was founded in 2015 by Dutch journalist Tako Rietveld. After working as a presenter and reporter for the Dutch National Children’s News for over ten years, he felt the need to give children across the world a voice. ‘Children proved to me that they have much more to say then most adults think. They inspire me, make me laugh and think. They know what the world should be like. We can learn from them. Listen!‘

“Children, after all, are not just adults-in-the-making. They are people whose current needs and rights and experiences must be taken seriously.” – Alfie Kohn

Youth reports

We fund and make youth reports through out network of reporters.

Non-profit

90% of our funds go to reporting projects, correspondents and training.

Training

We train journalists in how to make reports with children.

The foundation

The Board

The board of the foundation consists of two very experienced and dedicated people, who work completely on voluntary basis and therefore do not receive any financial compensation for their work. They do receive our gratitude and the gratitude of the children, which is priceless.

Founder and managing director: Tako Rietveld
Chairman: Fergal van de Wouw
Board members: Fergal van de Wouw, Mieke Spaans, Rob Hulsman & Alexandra de Jong. 

ANBI Status

The Youth News Foundation has applied for ANBI status from the tax authorities and it has been granted.

Our ANBI status includes:

– We are at least 90% committed to the common good;
– We are not for profit with our activities and services;
– We meet integrity requirements;
– Natural or legal persons do not have the assets of the organization;
– We do not hold more assets than is reasonably necessary for the work of the organization;
– The remuneration for the board is limited to an expense allowance;
– We have an up-to-date policy plan;
– There is a reasonable ratio between costs and expenditure;
– Money that remains after the institution has been closed will be spent on an ANBI with a similar purpose;
– We comply with administrative obligations and publish certain information on this website.

Our Team

PARTNERS