Create safe, accessible, and well-paying jobs.




This might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s not always that simple. In countries affected by conflict, for example, movements are often restricted to keep civilians safe. However, this can also plunge families into poverty if opportunities are limited. “It was forbidden to go out or move to other areas,” Laila*, a 31-year-old mother of five in Syria told us. “There was no work, no freedom to leave, there was only fear.”

For millions of people living in poverty without a consistent job that pays an adequate living wage, some basic vocational and entrepreneurial skills can help them build their own jobs. This is at the foundation of Concern’s Graduation program, which works with families to “graduate” out of poverty through livelihoods support. Every year, we work with thousands of participants like 40-year-old Alexia Mukashyaka in Rwanda. After investing in a sewing machine, Alexia started a successful tailoring business, making on average 20 outfits for women each week.

“Before, life was bad. I was really poor. I would take a hoe and go and farm for someone for a wage to take care of my children,” she says. “But now, life is easy. Whenever I get work, I do it and then I save some money to take care of my children, no problem at all.”


RWANDA
Alexia Mukashyaka at her tailoring shop in Mugombwa, Rwanda. Alexia was selected for the Graduation Programme in 2019. After investing in a sewing machine, she started up a successful tailoring business, making on average 20 outfits for women each week. She plans to expand and eventually open a hairdressing salon, and is currently receiving lessons on hairstyling. (Photo: Eugene Ikua/Concern Worldwide Additional Information)
Location: 405 E 45th St, New York, NY 10017, USA

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