In today’s rapidly evolving job market, education alone is no longer enough. A 2022 UNICEF report revealed that nearly 75% of young people aged 15-24 in 92 countries lack the critical skills needed for modern employment. So, how do we bridge this growing gap?

In this episode of 'Future Economies Start with Youth' - The Podcast, our host Kevin Eustatia, sits down with Paul Njuguna, CFYE's Senior Portfolio Associate for Kenya, to explore the impact of the skills mismatch on young people and economic growth, particularly in Kenya, while highlighting key partners in CFYE's Kenyan portfolio that help bridge this gap. Emily Waters, CFYE's MEL Manager, discusses how data-driven, youth-centered training programs are transforming lives by aligning skills with market demands. She dives into the role of gender, accessibility, and feedback loops in shaping effective programs, with real-world examples of how listening to young people—especially marginalized groups—leads to meaningful change. From VR welding in Kenya to innovative hospitality training in Egypt, this episode highlights practical solutions and success stories that are redefining how we prepare the next generation for the workforce.