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The Igniting Youth Futures Initiative: A Bold Step Towards Sustainable Employment for Young People

Update The Promise of 'Igniting Youth Futures' In an era marked by unprecedented economic challenges, World YMCA’s newly launched Igniting Youth Futures (IYFutures) programme emerges as a beacon of hope for underserved youth. Officially rolled out on June 11, 2025, at the YMpower Carnival in New Delhi, this global initiative aspires to reshape the landscape of youth employment, aiming to engage and empower 25,000 young individuals by 2028 across India, South Africa, and Spain, before scaling to impact 100,000 more worldwide by 2030. Carlos Sanvee, Secretary-General of World YMCA, emphasizes the urgent need for a shift from conventional skills training into pathways that guarantee meaningful employment—a goal that resonates in today’s shifting economic climate. Tackling a Pressing Global Issue The statistics surrounding youth unemployment are alarming: approximately 20% of young people aged 15 to 29 find themselves neither in employment nor in educational pursuits, disproportionately affecting women and girls. This dire situation contributes to both economic stagnation and escalating mental health issues as young people grapple with isolation and uncertainty about their futures. IYFutures not only articulates the commitment to combat these challenge but also seeks to nudge the employment ecosystem towards inclusivity and sustainability. Innovative Partnerships Fueling Change Collaboration is at the heart of IYFutures. With backing from global partners such as Accenture and the Macquarie Group Foundation, the programme is set to leverage existing resources and expertise to drive meaningful change. Accenture's support, including access to its Learning to Earning portal, represents a strategic investment in developing vital skills that can elevate future employment opportunities for young people. The integration of impact finance models is particularly noteworthy, aiming to ensure long-term sustainability while addressing both social and environmental challenges. Expanding the Pathways to Meaningful Work One of the primary objectives of IYFutures is to transform the conventional education-to-employment pipeline. By engaging hard-to-reach youth, the programme prioritizes awareness and mindset shifts necessary for pursuing Meaningful Work. This involves equipping young individuals not only with essential skills but also providing thorough career planning resources, significantly enhancing their chances of pursuing self-employment or entrepreneurship. Addressing the Broader Economic Implications The societal impact of unaddressed youth unemployment extends far beyond individual hardships; it stifles economic growth and perpetuates cycles of poverty and inequality. As the global economy increasingly relies on an empowered workforce, the ramifications of failing to prepare youth adequately for the future become stark. IYFutures’ vision contributes to this transformational landscape by fostering resilient individuals who can actively participate in and contribute to sustainable economic models. Joining the Movement The YMCA Movement operates with a singular vision: empowering every individual to lead and effect change within their communities. As part of the IYFutures initiative, there is an open call for partnerships encompassing employers, educators, investors, and stakeholders in workforce development to engage in scalable solutions that combat youth unemployment. This collaborative approach underscores the importance of multi-sector engagement in tackling societal challenges. A Call to Action for the Professionals As professionals navigating the complexities of economic and social dynamics, your role in this movement is crucial. The Igniting Youth Futures programme not only invites partnerships but also encourages you to plug into these critical discussions surrounding employment, sustainability, and the future workforce. Engage with the initiative and become part of driving systemic changes that can lead to an equitable future for youth across the globe.