Youth unemployment is a global challenge and data shows that nearly 40% of youth do not find stable employment despite their level of education. IREX partnered with youth researchers for a youth-led global study in Iraq, Kenya, and Guatemala focused on understanding young people’s perspectives and lived experiences during their search for work. Based on the study, the research team produced a guide for designing youth-centric and innovative employment programs for development practitioners. Key insights from the guide include the need to redefine success in the learning-to-earning journey, provide mental health support for job seekers, mainstream support to navigate self-employment and entrepreneurship, and equip job seekers with practical experiences and skills.
