Announcing the new Palladium Challenge Fund recipients
The annual Palladium Challenge Fund theme for 2024, ‘Jobs for Refugee Returnees,’ sought out pioneering initiatives designed to rebuild post-conflict labour markets. This year’s theme focused on fostering economic reconstruction and social transformation by creating sustainable employment opportunities for those returning to their communities after displacement.
We are thrilled to introduce the four exceptional projects selected for funding under this year’s Challenge Fund:
Alsama Project, Lebanon
G12++: High-School Certification for Refugee Youth
Many young refugees lack access to formal education pathways, making it difficult to secure jobs or pursue higher education so they can rebuild. This project aims to launch a high-school equivalent certification tailored for refugee youth that can be administered in refugee camps worldwide, without a mandatory curriculum as currently no such certification exists. In partnership with Cambridge University, the funding will finalise and pilot this innovative test, paving the way for its official international certification and launch in 2026.
Learn more about Alsama and the project here.
Alight Ukraine, Ukraine
InviYOUth
For young displaced Ukrainians aged 14-35 in the Kharkiv region, mental health support and skill-building are critical to rebuilding their lives. InviYOUth offers a holistic program that includes trauma-informed mental health support, social cohesion activities, and essential soft skills training. The goal is to equip participants with the confidence and capabilities needed to integrate into the workforce and contribute to their communities.
Learn more about Alight here.
BodEr Tech, Kenya
Development and Market Launch of BodEr Ride-Hailing App
In Nairobi, refugees often face barriers to securing employment in the formal sector. BodEr Tech is tackling this issue by developing and launching a ride-hailing and logistics app that prioritises job creation for refugee communities. The project also promotes environmental sustainability by encouraging the adoption of electric bikes, fostering both economic and ecological benefits.
Enabled Children Initiative, Afghanistan
Vocational Training and Employment for Afghan Returnee Youth with Disabilities
Returnee youth with disabilities often encounter significant barriers to employment and social inclusion. This initiative aims to break those barriers by providing vocational training and supported work placements. Beyond job creation, the program also works to challenge stigma surrounding disability in the home, workplace, and broader community, fostering a more inclusive labour market.
Learn more about Enabled Children Initiative here.
We would like to say a big thank you to our partner Palladium and acknowledge the funding and technical support provided to make the Challenge Fund possible.
