YouthLinks

Lack of support networks leads to lack of employability

The risk of social and labour market exclusion is especially high for young people at risk of losing parental care or who have already lost it. They cannot count on the support networks of their families and are less likely to have access to positive role models, skills training and work experience. They face a higher risk of being unemployed, experiencing precarious employment conditions, and poverty.

Job mentorship programmes are a great opportunity for young people to receive guidance and increase their employment prospects, but they sometimes face challenges: mentors have limited time; the geographical distance makes connecting difficult; the number of young people interested in mentorships exceeds the number of mentors.  

Benefits for our partners

Experience has shown that the employees of corporate partners who mentor young people are more motivated and more loyal to the company after participating in such programmes. Through YouthLinks they are able to not only support young people in their own countries, but also connect with young people abroad who do not have access to skills trainings locally. In addition, the employees are able to develop their digital and mentorship skills and learn more about their own professional sectors.

YouthLinks gives corporate partners the opportunity to reinforce their corporate social responsibility strategy and strengthen their presence beyond their home country. By supporting YouthLinks, they actively contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and make a tangible impact on young people’s lives.

Facts and figures

YouthLinks was launched in four countries in 2017:
Colombia
Costa Rica
Jordan
Lithuania

In 2018, it will be rolled out in 15 more countries around the globe.