In February 2004, an alliance of global organizations was launched will help young people in Africa develop skills and strengthen attitudes and behaviors so they can find and keep jobs.

IYF officially launched the “Alliance for African Youth Employability” with the US Agency for International Development (USAID), Nokia, and Lions Clubs International Foundation. Both USAID and Nokia have collectively committed over US$1.8 million to the initiative. Lions Clubs International will utilize its networks in Malawi and Rwanda to provide training, mentoring, and placements for the program participants, and to raise additional funds.

Over five years, the Alliance will promote employability and employment for more than 35,000 disadvantaged young people aged 14 to 29 living in rapidly urbanizing areas of South Africa, Malawi, Mozambique and Rwanda. Young people will receive not only job training, but also career counseling, direct placement in internships and jobs, and the skills to create their own businesses.

To learn more about IYF's Youth Employment initiatives click here.