Unicef launches FairChance Programme to Empower Young Women in Zimbabwe

THE United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (Unicef) has launched a programme aimed at equipping young women with skills and knowledge on how to access decent job opportunities through an engaging and motivational learning pathway.

In a statement, Unicef representative in Zimbabwe Dr Tajudeen Oyewale said the programme FairChance is being held in partnership with Goodwall, Yoma and Generation Unlimited, and will be funded by the governments of Austria and the Netherlands.

“This ground-breaking initiative, primarily hosted on the Goodwall app, aims to up-skill and boost competencies of marginalised young women in Zimbabwe to access decent job opportunities and thrive in today’s competitive world of work, through an engaging and motivational learning pathway which can lead to an exciting working experience in any Zimbabwean company,” he said.

Dr Oyewale said through the programme’s learning pathway, young women will be invited to participate in four challenges on the Goodwall app, meant to train and test them on key life skills such as self-confidence, creativity, critical thinking, leadership and industrial attachment.

“The primary objective of FairChance Zimbabwe is to demonstrate how under-represented young people can develop into a robust and qualified talent pool for employers and thus enhance diversity and inclusion in the labour market,” said Dr Oyewale.

He said the FairChance initiative aligns with the Second Republic’s commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive environment, where every young person has a fair chance to unlock their full potential.

“The ultimate goal of the FairChance programme is to establish a cost-scalable proof of concept, demonstrating the effectiveness and economic viability of this partnership model, providing value for employers, and impacting the lives of young women positively,” said Dr Oyewale.

“Young women between the age of 18 and 26 years are invited to participate in the programme through the Goodwall app as of January 29. For those unable to download the Goodwall app, participation through the WhatsApp social media platform is also available here and on the following number: +27 838873804, to ensure accessibility to a broader audience.”

Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister Tino Machakaire said the initiative aligns with Government efforts to create a supportive ecosystem to nurture talent among the youth.

“As a ministry, we believe this initiative is perfectly in alignment with our priorities for the youth of Zimbabwe and we aim to create a supportive ecosystem that nurtures talent and cultivates the leaders of tomorrow, through partnerships with leading educational institutions, industry experts, and mentor-ship programmes, beyond this proof of concept,” he said.

Two key private sector partners for this pilot project — SPAR Zimbabwe and tourism operator Wild Horizons — have been engaged from the start to co-design the programme.

They will also provide opportunities for selected finalists of the programme, such as entry-level jobs and internships.

Wild Horizon’s chief executive officer Mr Gary Archer said his organisation strongly believes in supporting and the empowerment of youths, particularly young women.

“By providing them with the necessary opportunities, resources and guidance, we can empower these individuals to make positive choices and contribute meaningfully to society,” he said.

SPAR Zimbabwe’s general manager, Mr Cypren Borerwe said they are excited to team up with Unicef and Goodwall for the FairChance Programme.

He said they believe in empowering women, which aligns with one of their core values.

“As part of this programme, we are thrilled to offer internships to five young women who will gain valuable retail experience in our stores. With a focus on inclusivity, Unicef is also collaborating with the Women’s Coalition of Zimbabwe, the Regional Network of Children and Young People Trust, and BOOST Fellowship,” said Mr Borerwe.

“These organisations are committed to the rights and well-being of young women to ensure the right target audience is reached in both rural and urban areas, and well-informed to meaningfully engage in the initiative.”