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.
Duration: 2012-2018 Location: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Canada, Egypt, Uganda, India, Kenya, Kyrgyz Republic, Madagascar, Mali, Mozambique, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Tanzania
The Aswan Skills Development Program aims to improve livelihoods and economic opportunities for youth in Egypt.
Duration: 2016-2020 Location: Afghanistan Reach: 235,100 people (213,050 women; 22,050 men) Budget: $12 million (Global Affairs Canada: $10.5 million; AKFC: $1.5 million) Description:
Duration: 2017-2020 Location: Afghanistan, Tajikistan Reach: 51,175 people Budget: $2.2 million (International Development Research Centre: $1.5 million; AKFC: $500,000; Ministry of
We were all once children. We were all once young, full of hope and potential.
Rachel Mather was part of the 2016-2017 cohort of the International Youth Fellowship Program. She was placed with First Micro Credit Company in Osh, Kyrgyz Republic.
Lal and Samantha live worlds apart, but their lives are more similar than it seems at first glance.
For vulnerable communities in remote, high mountain valleys across Central Asia, lives are changing.
I’ve been in Bangladesh for more than two months now, working with CARE Bangladesh on their programming to help rural farmers improve their agricultural practices – and incomes.
