A big family often translates into fulfilling the needs of many with limited resources. When it comes to girl children, getting into schools/colleges becomes a tougher task because of their gender and associated inequalities. Keerti, a 23-year-old youth, saw her father struggling to manage her family of 5 with a single income and wanted to help her father with household expenses.
A General Duty Assistance (GDA) course with Smile Foundation’s livelihood program, STeP (Smile Twin e-Learning Programme) was her way out and she grabbed it with all her enthusiasm, hard work and trust in the self. Today, decisions at her home are not made without her opinions- a change that she never expected but found herself to be enjoying because of her financial independence. This is the power and reward of being a young earning youth in our country which will have the largest working-age population in the world by 2100.
The vibrant energy and boundless potential of youth have always been a driving force behind societal progress and change. Every year on August 12th, International Youth Day is observed worldwide. The United Nations designated this day to draw attention to the unique challenges faced by young people and to celebrate their contributions to global development.
This year’s theme, “Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World” is to highlight the role of young people in coming together to amplify engagement and leadership in all areas of decision-making and action, especially in creating an environmentally sustainable and climate-friendly world.
Smile Foundation’s Livelihood Programme
Amid the backdrop of International Youth Day, Smile Foundation’s STeP programme aims to serve the youth in underserved communities. This programme isn’t just about jobs; it’s about transforming lives by equipping young individuals with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities they need to break free from the cycle of inaccessibility and realize their dreams.
One of the cornerstones of the STeP is skill development. Recognizing that traditional educational pathways don’t always provide the necessary skills for gainful employment, we take a practical and holistic approach.
Through vocational training and hands-on workshops, young individuals are trained in a range of industries, from hospitality and healthcare to technology and digital marketing. These skills not only provide them with employable opportunities but also enable them to contribute effectively to the changing dynamics of the workforce.
Breaking Barriers to Equal Opportunities
Underserved communities often face an array of barriers that limit their access to quality education and sustainable livelihoods. The Smile Foundation is on a mission to break down these barriers. By providing free vocational training, mentorship, and placement support, the program ensures that young people, regardless of their backgrounds, have equal access to opportunities that can uplift their lives. This commitment to inclusivity aligns perfectly with the spirit of International Youth Day, which emphasizes leaving no one behind.
Success Stories of Transformation
Behind every statistic is a real story of transformation. The STeP programme has sparked numerous success stories like Keerti’s, showcasing how empowered youth can create a ripple effect of positive change. From young women breaking gender stereotypes in male-dominated industries to individuals starting their own businesses and uplifting their families, the impact of the programme extends far beyond the participants themselves.
As we celebrate International Youth Day, let’s remember that the future of our planet rests in the hands of our youth. International Youth Day serves as a reminder that youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow but also the torchbearers of change today. Through programmes that prioritize skill development, education, and equal opportunities, we can empower youth to be the change-makers our world desperately needs.
As we celebrate this day, let’s reaffirm our commitment to fostering innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable progress, ultimately creating a planet that thrives on the passion and potential of its youth.
