Work and Enterprise

The challenge: The issue of economic exclusion is a stark one: The number of unemployed youth globally is estimated at 71 million, with many regions recording a youth unemployment rate twice as high as adults. Many more young adults are underemployed, falling into the category of “working poor.” Over 40 percent of women remain outside of the formal financial system. These exclusions result in hardship at the household level, and slower growth of the global economy.

Our solution: We work on multiple fronts to create opportunities for all to build a more prosperous future. Our programs address a wide spectrum of needs, from community-based savings groups to financial services, and support to women and youth entrepreneurs. We invest in innovative, market-focused initiatives that build the knowledge, skills, and institutional capacities to promote sustainable economic growth in remote or marginalized communities.

From garbage to growth: How one woman is championing climate action in her community

Meet Mildred, a woman entrepreneur championing climate action in her community.

Meet the Fellows: From Kenya to the Kyrgyz Republic

Since 1989, over 500 young Canadians have participated in AKFC’s International Youth Fellowship, a program that has launched diverse careers

In Their Hands: Supporting adolescent girls and their communities in Uganda

Uganda has one of the youngest and most rapidly growing populations in the world – Uganda has a 3.7% population

How two entrepreneurs are challenging gender inequality in Pakistan

Access to financial services like loans can be challenging in remote and rural communities, like Safia and Hameeda’s village in Pakistan.

A collage of headshots from the 2022 International Youth Fellows.

Meet the Fellows of 2022

Since 1989, more than 500 young Canadians have participated in AKFC’s International Youth Fellowship, a program that has launched diverse

Broadening Economic & Social Transformation for Women’s Economic Empowerment & Recovery (BEST4WEER) 

BEST4WEER aims to improve women’s social and economic empowerment during the process of COVID-19 recovery and rebuilding.

Volunteering and saving lives: Meet Gul Mahoor

Gul Mahoor volunteers as manager of her community’s health relief fund in Pakistan.

Afghanistan today: An interview with Dr. Najmuddin Najm, CEO of AKF Afghanistan

An insight into the current crisis in Afghanistan, how AKF is responding and why hope endures.

A solar panel outside a village house in Pemba, Mozambique.

Accelerating Women Climate Entrepreneurs (AWCE)

AWCE contributes to poverty reduction by identifying and promoting good practices to support women entrepreneurs in climate-related value chains.