IYF visits youth training program at Foundation

International Youth Foundation (IYF) Program Director Jean-Pierre Isenbendjian recently visited the Foundation of Goodness to assess the progress of the Women’s Enterprise Division and Business Skills Centre, a project IYF are supporting as part of a post-tsunami initiative designed to empower youth through employment.

The Tsunami Reconstruction initiative was set up in 2005 to develop training and job creation programs for the youth in tsunami affected countries – Thailand, India, Indonesia and Sri Lanka – and aims to provide more than 4,400 16 to 29 year olds with access to job and life skills training, apprenticeships, job placements, and micro-credit or small start-up loans.

As part of this program, IYF is funding courses at the Centre of Excellence in Seenigama designed to assist 2,160 tsunami affected youths gain employment and generate further job opportunities through training in business skills, life skills and technical skills.

Mr Isenbendjian visited Seenigama to see the work that has been done to set up classes in beauty culture, beralu lace making, patchwork and sewing, as well as workshops focusing on skills that will assist youths who want to set up businesses of their own.

He spoke positively about IYF’s relationship with the Foundation of Goodness, and the efforts that have been made to get the project started.

‘It’s been pleasant to work with the Foundation of Goodness. We have a good understanding and communication, and the partnership approach has been working well,’ he said.

He commented that students ‘seem very happy with the classes…which is a good sign.’

So far, the Women’s Enterprise Division has 159 students and 31 local youth have completed a business skills workshop – a sound beginning to what looks set to be a life-enhancing experience for young residents.

For Mr Isenbendjian, the end result of the training is the most important outcome and he’s looking forward to witnessing the increased levels of employment.

‘The real evidence of success will be apparent when we see gradates in operation, selling their product or in employment and earning an income. That’s what really matters,’ he said.

The International Youth Foundation (IYF) works in close to 70 countries and territories to improve the conditions and prospects for young people where they live, learn, work, and play. For more information, visit their website