The project Empowering Young Women – The Beginning of Change aims to improve the employability and socio-economic integration of young women in vulnerable situations through the development of personal and professional competencies, strengthening self-confidence, and providing access to psychosocial support.
Many young women in Tuzla Canton face numerous challenges that hinder their economic and social integration – including unemployment, insecure forms of work, limited access to education and training, as well as difficult family and socio-economic circumstances. Particular attention is given to young women from vulnerable groups, including those from alternative care settings, the NEET population, rural areas, women with disabilities, and other young women in situations of social need.
The project provides long-term and comprehensive support to young women through a combination of educational activities, psychosocial support, and practical experience in professional environments. The work with participants is based on the The Next Economy methodology, which focuses on recognizing and developing personal potential, strengthening self-confidence, and building key life and professional skills necessary for better integration into the labour market.
Through educational workshops, vocational trainings, and various forms of practical learning, participants develop employability skills, explore different professional fields, and gain insight into real work environments through activities such as job shadowing in the private sector. In addition, participants are provided with continuous individual support through counselling and psychotherapy sessions, contributing to greater emotional stability, resilience, and personal capacities to cope with life challenges.
The project currently brings together 54 young women aged 15 to 35. Through camps, trainings, and the final Youth Forum, participants are given space for networking, exchange of experiences, and dialogue with representatives of institutions, civil society organizations, and the private sector about the position of young women and opportunities for positive change.
The project is implemented in the period 2023–2026, with financial support from the Fokus Frauen Foundation (Switzerland) and co-financing from the partner organization Amica Schweiz (Switzerland).
