When people are forced out from their homes and communities, they need to leave behind most things, but no matter what they leave behind, they always bring three things with them wherever they go: skills, talents, aspirations.
The IKEA Foundation* is supporting theInternational Rescue Committee (IRC)with €5 million to improve the lives of both refugees and young Kenyans living in Nairobi’s informal settlements.
Working in collaboration with IKEA, the IRC is providing them with a flexible training and employment programme that is tailored to each individual’s needs to help them stand on their own and fulfill financial independence. By offering business-skills training, start-up grants, apprenticeships, and connections to local employers, the IRC is helping thousands of vulnerable people improve their chances for a better future.
Once refugees have their own skills, talents, and aspirations, they can grow with their communities together. When refugees are able to work, they can create businesses and employ others; when they need fewer benefits and have money to spend in the local economy, they experience less frustration and feel more connected to their new communities.