In partnership with Alwaleed Philanthropies “Global” and the Yemen Education for Employment organization, Aden celebrated the graduation of 500 young men and women as part of the "Mustaqbal – Phase II" project.
In partnership with Alwaleed Philanthropies "Global", chaired by His Royal Highness Prince Alwaleed bin Talal AlSaud, Aden marked a significant step toward economic empowerment with the graduation of 500 young men and women from both the employment training and self-employment tracks of the Mustaqbal – Phase II project. The graduation ceremony took place at Qasr Saba Hall at the end of April 2025, in the presence of H.E. Ahmed Hamed Lamlas, Minister of State and Governor of Aden. The event was organized by the Yemen Education for Employment Foundation, with Alwaleed Philanthropies "Global" playing a vital role in supporting and enabling the success of the project.
The “Mustaqbal – Phase II” project aimed to foster self-reliance among youth in Aden and surrounding areas by equipping them with the tools, skills, and opportunities needed to enter the job market through self-employment. Over the course of several weeks, the program provided participants with essential life and professional skills, including workplace communication, teamwork, problem-solving, customer service, and digital literacy. In addition, it offered training across a wide range of technical fields, such as electricity, solar energy, auto electrics, graphic design, photography, hairdressing, beauty, and air conditioning and refrigeration.
The training focused not only on developing vocational skills, but also on essential job readiness competencies such as financial literacy, time management, customer service, and problem-solving. These skills helped participants build confidence, plan for their futures, and navigate the realities of running their own businesses.
Upon completing the training, and as a direct and immediate result of the program, dozens of graduates secured jobs with private sector companies and local businesses. This achievement reflects the tangible impact of the project, not only in enhancing employability, but also in building confidence, independence, and hope among participants. For many, it was their first professional experience, for others, it marked a life-changing step toward self-reliance.
Each graduate from the self-employment track received a customized start-up kit tailored to their specific trade. These kits included essential tools and materials, enabling them to begin working immediately and offer services within their local communities. Many have already taken their first steps toward financial independence by launching their own small businesses.
The graduation ceremony featured inspiring speeches from representatives of Alwaleed Philanthropies "Global," local officials, Education for Employment Yemen, and the graduates themselves. Many participants shared moving stories about how the program transformed their outlook on the future and opened new doors for them, especially amid the economic challenges facing the country.
The Yemen Training for Employment expressed its deep gratitude to Alwaleed Philanthropies "Global" for its unwavering support of the Mustaqbal – Phase II project. Their investment in youth has made a tangible impact and brought about sustainable change, providing hundreds of Yemeni young people with the opportunity to shape their futures through meaningful and lasting work.
In collaboration with Alwaleed Philanthropies "Global," the Mustaqbal – Phase II project was implemented by the Yemen Training for Employment Foundation. The project comprised two main tracks: training for employment and self-employment, and targeted youth, including persons with disabilities, in Aden and surrounding areas. Its goal was to promote economic inclusion, reduce unemployment, and equip young people with the tools they need to succeed in the job market or start their own small businesses.
