International Youth Day is an awareness day designated by the United Nations (UN). The purpose of the day is to draw attention to a given set of cultural and legal issues surrounding young people around the world.
With a strong community commitment, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) celebrated International Youth Day via a variety of initiatives across its countries of operation.
Supporting youth in business
EBRD marked International Youth Day with young entrepreneurs the Bank is supporting through its Youth in Business program.
One of the EBRD's many impactful flagship programs, Youth in Business offers young entrepreneurs access to critically needed financing and technical assistance to grow their small businesses.
Young people are a catalyst of change
Meanwhile, EBRD shared a poignant message from Egypt's Minister of International Cooperation and International Economist, Rania A. Al Mashat, who applauded the EBRD's efforts and collabopration, and she asserted that "youth are the catalyst of change."
In a joint collaboration with the National Bank of Egypt (NBE), EBRD empowers youth through its Youth in Business program and many investments targeting economic opportunities for young people.
"Egypt’s partnership with the EBRD is built on ensuring inclusivity in our projects, reflected in providing necessary business skills, supporting SMEs, and unlocking new job opportunities for our talented youth," explained Rania.
Providing support and training to unemployed youth
EBRD's work to increase economic opportunities in Egypt extends into a collaboration with Hyundai Rotem to offer certified training to 80 unemployed young people.
“Being in the workshop boosted my confidence to work in a sector dominated by men and gave me new skills to complement my studies. I’ve applied for a job in the rolling stock sector and very much look forward to a future career in this key sector for Egypt," said Trainee Sarah Ahmed [pictured above left].
Supporting youth transition from education to employment
Finally, for International Youth Day, EBRD reiterated its partnership with the Abdali Mall Recruitment and Training Centre in Amman, Jordan. Through this partnership, the Bank has supported nearly 2,000 youth transition from education into employment in retail, hospitality, culinary arts, and more.
"A great way to celebrate Youth Day in Jordan," said EBRD Managing Director for the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean (SEMED) region, Heike Harmgart.
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