Strategic Digital Communication for Empowering Online Communities: A Case Study of Youtz Community Hub
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26623/themessenger.v17i1.11897Keywords:
Communication Strategy, Community Empowerment, Digital Social Innovation, Social Media, Youtz Community HubAbstract
Purpose: This study aims to analyze communication strategies in empowering online communities for the development of digital social innovation through Youtz Community Hub. This study was conducted to determine how communication strategies can support community empowerment and encourage the creation of social innovation in the digital era.
Methods: This study uses a qualitative approach with a case study method. Data collection was conducted through in-depth interviews and participant observation of programs implemented by Youtz Community Hub. This is because the community has an interesting communication strategy in empowering the community online. The focus of this study includes five stages of communication strategy, namely analysis and research, policy formulation, program planning, communication implementation, and evaluation and feedback.
Findings: The results of the study show that the digital communication strategy implemented, especially through social media, can increase participation, involvement, and the impact of community empowerment. This strategy is also effective in encouraging social innovation and building a collaborative ecosystem between communities, institutions, and other stakeholders.
Originality: The novelty of this research lies in the participatory and data-driven digital communication approach applied in the context of online community empowerment. What sets this study apart is the integration of qualitative analysis tools, particularly Atlas.ti, to systematically code, visualize, and interpret narrative interview data and observational findings. These findings contribute to the advancement of inclusive and sustainable communication strategies in the digital era, particularly in digitally native youth communities.
References
Anggraeni, S., & Suherman, M. (2022). Strategi Komunikasi Komunitas Paredu.Id dalam Mensosialisasikan Program Parenting Education. Bandung Conference Series: Public Relations, 2(2). https://doi.org/10.29313/bcspr.v2i2.4019
Armansyah, R., Syam, M. A., & Azahra, N. (2023). Peran Ibu Kota Nusantara Sebagai Kota Sustainable Cities Dalam Mensejahterakan Masyarakat Indonesia. Eksekusi : Jurnal Ilmu Hukum Dan Administrasi Negara, 2(1), 255–266. https://doi.org/10.55606/eksekusi.v2i1.879
Bayne, K. M., & Grant, A. (2024). Who cares what happens with planted forests? A public typology to assist community engagement and communication. Forest Policy and Economics, 169, 103332. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.forpol.2024.103332
Cangara, H. (2014a). Komunikasi Politik: Konsep, Teori, dan Strategi (Edisi Revisi). In Jakarta: Rajawali Pers.
Cangara, H. (2014b). Perencanaan & Strategi Komunikasi (Revisi, Vol.2). Jakarta: Rajafrafindo Persada.
Caporale, D., & Rinaldi, A. (2025). The application of analytical hierarchy process to assess adaptation strategies for flood and landslides risks: A case study of a multi-risk area community. Environmental Science & Policy, 163, 103959. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envsci.2024.103959
Chung, K. S. K., Eskerod, P., Jepsen, A. L., & Zhang, J. (2023). Response strategies for community stakeholder engagement on social media: A case study of a large infrastructure project. International Journal of Project Management, 41(5), 102495. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijproman.2023.102495
Condie, C. M., Fulton, E. A., Alexander, K. A., Vince, J., Haward, M., & Condie, S. A. (2024). Social influence modelling demonstrates that strategic communication and depoliticization reduces conflict in aquaculture. Marine Policy, 165(May 2023), 106211. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpol.2024.106211
Dikmen, I., Karakocak, E., & Birgonul, M. T. (2024). Communication of project risk assessment information through visuals. Project Leadership and Society, 5, 100141. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.plas.2024.100141
Galvano, A., Gottardo, A., Gristina, V., Fanale, D., Corsini, L. R., Pavone, C., Bazan Russo, T. D., Di Giovanni, E., Iannì, G., Randazzo, U., Iacono, F., Perez, A., Brando, C., Bono, M., Bazan, V., Incorvaia, L., Badalamenti, G., Cinieri, S., Boldrini, M., … Russo, A. (2024). Scientific Communication and oncology – “The bridge between knowledge and patients.” Critical Reviews in Oncology/Hematology, 204, 104531. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.critrevonc.2024.104531
Gasco-Hernandez, M., Nasi, G., Cucciniello, M., & Hiedemann, A. M. (2022). The role of organizational capacity to foster digital transformation in local governments: The case of three European smart cities. Urban Governance, 2(2), 236–246. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ugj.2022.09.005
Geysi, N. (2025). Empowering public relations for sustainability: examining the landscape in Turkey. Corporate Communications: An International Journal, 30(2), 335–354. https://doi.org/10.1108/CCIJ-12-2023-0192
Gossen, M., & Heinrich, A. (2021). Encouraging consumption reduction: Findings of a qualitative study with clothing companies on sufficiency-promoting communication. Cleaner and Responsible Consumption, 3, 100028. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clrc.2021.100028
Hernawan, B. (2024). Perubahan Pola Komunikasi Mahasiswa dalam Era Digital. Jakarta: Pustaka Akademika.
Hinsberg, K. L., & Lamanna, A. J. (2024). Crisis communication in construction: Organizational strategies for worksite fatalities. Journal of Safety Research, 88, 145–160. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsr.2023.11.002
Ho, J. C. Y., Chai, H. H., Lo, E. C. M., Huang, M. Z., & Chu, C. H. (2024). Strategies for Effective Dentist-Patient Communication: A Literature Review. Patient Preference and Adherence, 18, 1385–1394. https://doi.org/10.2147/PPA.S465221
Hondo, W., Gulo, M., Bawamenewi, W., & Djumenta., D. (2024). Digitalisasi Okultisme: Penyebaran Ajaran dan Ritual Virtual Melalui Platform Digital di Era Modern. Jurnal Teologi Cultivation, 8(2), 235–253. https://e-journal.iakntarutung.ac.id/index.php/cultivation/article/view/2572
Hossin, M. A., Du, J., Mu, L., & Asante., I. O. (2023). Big data-driven public policy decisions: Transformation toward smart governance. Sage Open, 13(4). https://doi.org/10.1177/21582440231215123
Iivari, N., Sharma, S., & Ventä-Olkkonen, L. (2020). Digital transformation of everyday life – How COVID-19 pandemic transformed the basic education of the young generation and why information management research should care? International Journal of Information Management, 55(June), 102183. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijinfomgt.2020.102183
Janssen, D., & Carradini, S. (2021). Generation Z Workplace Communication Habits and Expectations. IEEE Transactions on Professional Communication, 64(2), 137–153. https://doi.org/10.1109/TPC.2021.3069288
Khan, A. S., Kumar, M. S., & Chella., R. S. (2022). Risk communication and capacity-building: A case study on framing CBA strategies of artisanal fishing communities to sea-level rise using BASIEC. Climate Services, 26, 100299. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cliser.2022.100299
Khan, M. A., Ghafoor, S., Zaidi, S. M. H., Khan, H., & Ahmad, A. (2024). From quantum communication fundamentals to decoherence mitigation strategies: Addressing global quantum network challenges and projected applications. Heliyon, 10(14), e34331. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e34331
Klepikov, V. P., & Klepikova, L. V. (2023). Communication system between Russian energy companies and the Indigenous peoples of the North. Energy Reports, 9, 79–89. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.egyr.2023.05.244
Koponen, J., Julkunen, S., Laajalahti, A., Turunen, M., & Spitzberg, B. (2025). Sales managers’ perceptions of interpersonal communication competence in leading AI-integrated sales teams. Industrial Marketing Management, 124, 57–72. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.indmarman.2024.11.012
Lee, Hyunsu. (2024). The rise of ChatGPT: Exploring its potential in medical education. Anatomical Sciences Education, 17(5), 926–931.
Lim, W. M., & Bowman, C. (2024). Giving and Responding to Feedback: Guidelines for Authors and Reviewers. Activities, Adaptation & Aging, 48(1), 1–20. https://doi.org/10.1080/01924788.2024.2304948
Lin, L., & Shek, D. T. L. (2021). Serving children and adolescents in need during the covid-19 pandemic: Evaluation of service-learning subjects with and without face-to-face interaction. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(4), 1–16. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18042114
Li, X., Zhang, Y., & Wang, L. (2022). Community Needs Assessment and Strategic Communication: A Survey-Based Analysis. International Journal of Communication Studies, 10(1), 89–102.
Luo, C., Lan, Y., Luo, X., & Li, H. (2021). The effect of commitment on knowledge sharing: An empirical study of virtual communities. Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 163(November 2019), 120438. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.techfore.2020.120438
Macca, L. S., Ballerini, J., Santoro, G., & Dabić, M. (2024). Consumer engagement through corporate social responsibility communication on social media: Evidence from Facebook and Instagram Bank Accounts. Journal of Business Research, 172, 114433. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbusres.2023.114433
Martin, J. N., & Nakayama, T. K. (2012). Intercultural Communication in Context. McGraw Hill.
Ma, S., Zheng, X. J., Lu, P., & Xu, Z. (2024). Promoting Upcycled Food: An analysis of social media communication strategies of Upcycled Food Association. Future Foods, 10, 100483. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fufo.2024.100483
Mato-Santiso, V., Rey-García, M., & Sanzo-Pérez, M. J. (2021). Managing multi-stakeholder relationships in nonprofit organizations through multiple channels: A systematic review and research agenda for enhancing stakeholder relationship marketing. Public Relations Review, 47(4), 102074. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pubrev.2021.102074
McKinsey. (2023). What Is Gen Z? In McKinsey & Company (Issue March 2023). https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/mckinsey-explainers/what-is-gen-z
Miles, M. B., & Huberman, A. M. (1994). Qualitative Data Analysis: An Expanded Sourcebook. Thousand Oaks.
Morawska-Jancelewicz, J. (2022). The Role of Universities in Social Innovation Within Quadruple/Quintuple Helix Model: Practical Implications from Polish Experience. Journal of the Knowledge Economy, 13(3), 2230–2271. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13132-021-00804-y
Newson, M., Zhao, Y., Zein, M. El, Sulik, J., Dezecache, G., Deroy, O., & Tunçgenç, B. (2024). Digital contact does not promote wellbeing, but face-to-face contact does: A cross-national survey during the COVID-19 pandemic. New Media and Society, 26(1), 426–449. https://doi.org/10.1177/14614448211062164
Newton, J. R., & Williams, M. C. (2022). Instagram as a Special Educator Professional Development Tool: A Guide to Teachergram. Journal of Special Education Technology, 37(3), 447–452. https://doi.org/10.1177/01626434211033596
Nguyen, M. H., Gruber, J., Marler, W., Hunsaker, A., Fuchs, J., & Hargittai, E. (2022). Staying connected while physically apart: Digital communication when face-to-face interactions are limited. New Media and Society, 24(9), 2046–2067. https://doi.org/10.1177/1461444820985442
Ohnishi, S., Osako, M., Nakamura, S., Togawa, T., Kawai, K., Suzuki, K., Yoshida, A., Gomi, K., & Tsuji, T. (2024). A Framework for Analyzing Co-Creation Value Chain Mechanisms in Community-Based Approaches: A Literature Review. Sustainability (Switzerland) , 16(7). https://doi.org/10.3390/su16072919
Parks, L., Srinivasan, R., & Aragon., D. C. (2022). Digital empowerment for whom? An analysis of ‘Network sovereignty’in low-income, rural communities in Mexico and Tanzania. Information, Communication & Society, 25(14), 2140–2161. https://doi.org/10.1080/1369118X.2021.1928264
Rendon, C., Osman, K. K., & Faust, K. M. (2021). Path towards community resilience: Examining stakeholders’ coordination at the intersection of the built, natural, and social systems. Sustainable Cities and Society, 68, 102774. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scs.2021.102774
Si, Y., Desai, D., Bozhilova, D., Puffer, S., & Stephens, J. C. (2023). Fossil fuel companies’ climate communication strategies: Industry messaging on renewables and natural gas. Energy Research & Social Science, 98, 103028. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.erss.2023.103028
Sparacino, A., Merlino, V. M., Brun, F., Borra, D., Blanc, S., & Massaglia, S. (2024). Corporate social responsibility communication from multinational chocolate companies. Sustainable Futures, 7, 100151. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sftr.2024.100151
Sparviero, S., & Ragnedda, M. (2021). Towards digital sustainability: the long journey to the sustainable development goals 2030. Digital Policy, Regulation and Governance, 23(3), 216–228. https://doi.org/10.1108/DPRG-01-2021-0015
Sutton, J., Arku, G., & Sadler, R. (2023). You do not know what you have until it is gone: The importance of face-to-face interactions in local economic development. Community Development, 54(5), 683–700. https://doi.org/10.1080/15575330.2023.2178473
Tambo, E., Djuikoue, I. C., Tazemda, G. K., Fotsing, M. F., & Zhou, X.-N. (2021). Early stage risk communication and community engagement (RCCE) strategies and measures against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic crisis. Global Health Journal, 5(1), 44–50. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.glohj.2021.02.009
Turut, O. (2024). The power of silent sustainability: Communication strategies for new sustainable products. Cleaner and Responsible Consumption, 14(August), 100220. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clrc.2024.100220
Udenze, S. (2025). “It’s a way to rally my inner circles and get them involved”: The Dynamics of Private Activism on WhatsApp in Nigeria. Journal of Communication Inquiry. https://doi.org/10.1177/01968599251329299
Vancsó, A., & Kovács-Magosi, O. (2024). The mutually reinforcing power of online and offline activism: The case of the Hungarian Fridays for Future movement. Global Studies of Childhood, 14(4), 412–432. https://doi.org/10.1177/20436106241286523
Wang, C. L. (2021). New frontiers and future directions in interactive marketing: Inaugural Editorial. Journal of Research in Interactive Marketing, 15(1), 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1108/JRIM-03-2021-270
Widodo, R., & Santoso, B. (2024). Dinamika Organisasi Kemahasiswaan: Antara Birokrasi, Inovasi, dan Preferensi Generasi Z. Pusat Kajian Sosial dan Budaya UIN SSC.
Wiedmann, K. P., & von Mettenheim, W. (2020). Attractiveness, trustworthiness and expertise – social influencers’ winning formula? Journal of Product and Brand Management, 30(5), 707–725. https://doi.org/10.1108/JPBM-06-2019-2442
Yadav, H., Kumar Kar, A., Kashiramka, S., & Rana, N. P. (2024). How does change in CEOs’ strategic orientations in their social media communication impact firm performance during crisis? A longitudinal study. Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 208, 123649. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.techfore.2024.123649
Yilmaz, S., Cuony, P., Chanez, C., & Patel, M. K. (2024). Communication strategies and consumer acceptance of utility-controlled heat pumps and electric vehicles. Utilities Policy, 90, 101800. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jup.2024.101800
Yin, R. K. (2014). Case Study Research Design and Methods (5th ed.) (Vol. 30, Issue 1). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage. https://doi.org/10.3138/CJPE.BR-240
Downloads
Additional Files
Published
Issue
Section
License
Copyright (c) 2025 Fathiyyah Azizah, Martha Tri Lestari

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Copyright Transfer Form
The copyright to this article is transferred to the Department of Communication, Faculty of Information Technology and Communication, Universitas Semarang if and when the article is accepted for publication. The undersigned hereby transfers any and all rights in and to the paper including without limitation all copyrights to the Department of Communication, Faculty of Information Technology and Communication, Universitas Semarang. The undersigned hereby represents and warrants that the paper is original and that he/she is the author of the paper, except for material that is clearly identified as to its original source, with permission notices from the copyright owners where required. The undersigned represents that he/she has the power and authority to make and execute this assignment.
We declare that:
1. This paper has not been published in the same form elsewhere.
2. It will not be submitted anywhere else for publication prior to acceptance/rejection by this Journal.
3. A copyright permission is obtained for materials published elsewhere and which require this permission for reproduction.
Furthermore, I/We hereby transfer the unlimited rights of publication of the above mentioned paper in whole to the Department of Communication, Faculty of Information Technology and Communication, Universitas Semarang. The copyright transfer not covers the exclusive right to reproduce and distribute the article, including reprints, translations, photographic reproductions, microform, electronic form (offline, online) or any other reproductions of similar nature.
The corresponding author signs for and accepts responsibility for releasing this material on behalf of any and all co-authors. This agreement is to be signed by at least one of the authors who have obtained the assent of the co-author(s) where applicable. After submission of this agreement signed by the corresponding author, changes of authorship or in the order of the authors listed will not be accepted.
Retained Rights/Terms and Conditions
1. Authors retain all proprietary rights in any process, procedure, or article of manufacture described in the Work.
2. Authors may reproduce or authorize others to reproduce the work or derivative works for the authors personal use or for company use, provided that the source and the Department of Communication, Faculty of Information Technology and Communication, Universitas Semarang copyright notice are indicated, the copies are not used in any way that implies the Department of Communication, Faculty of Information Technology and Communication, Universitas Semarang endorsement of a product or service of any employer, and the copies themselves are not offered for sale.
3. Although authors are permitted to re-use all or portions of the Work in other works, this does not include granting third-party requests for reprinting, republishing, or other types of re-use.



