Development of a Youth Led Implementation Model for the TO BE NUMBER ONE Project in Chanae District Narathiwat Province

Abstract

This mixed methods study aimed to examine the implementation structure and mechanisms of the TO BE NUMBER ONE project in Chanae District, Narathiwat Province, Thailand; develop a youth led implementation model; and assess satisfaction following pilot implementation. The study comprised three phases: a situational assessment involving quantitative data from 374 youth members and qualitative data from 44 stakeholders; model development informed by these findings and concepts of positive youth development, empowerment, and youth leadership; and pilot implementation involving 160 youth members. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis.

The project operated through a network connecting schools, communities, Friend Corners, public health agencies, local authorities, and community and religious leaders, with youth leaders serving as key facilitators. Mean scores for positive youth behavior and project implementation were 4.33 (SD = 0.23) and 3.91 (SD = 0.25), respectively. The regression model explained 67.00% of the variance in positive behavior. The resulting CHANAE Model comprised six components: Collaboration, Heart Space, Active Youth Leaders, Network Continuity, Adaptive Activities, and Evaluation and Empowerment. Following pilot implementation, mean satisfaction was 4.51 (SD = 0.29), equivalent to 90.25 out of 100 points; 95.00% reported high satisfaction and 5.00% moderate satisfaction.

The CHANAE Model offers a contextually grounded approach to youth engagement and project implementation in a multicultural setting. High satisfaction supports its acceptability among pilot participants; however, its effects on behavioral change and substance use prevention require further evaluation.