Nestlé Youth Employment Scheme: 10 Years of Global Job Opportunities
By News

Nestlé Youth Employment Scheme has made a remarkable impact over the past decade, celebrating ten years of commitment to enhancing job prospects for young people worldwide. Launched in 2014, this initiative addresses the pressing issue of youth unemployment by equipping individuals aged 18 to 30 with the skills and opportunities necessary to thrive in today’s job market. With over 40 million young people benefiting from its programs, Nestlé continues to position itself as a leader in corporate social responsibility and youth empowerment.

A Decade of Impact

Since its inception, Nestlé Youth Employment Scheme has successfully facilitated job placements, internships, and apprenticeships, significantly contributing to the global workforce. Nestlé has reported that nearly 7.7 million young people have secured employment through this initiative since 2017. In 2023 alone, the company facilitated approximately 24,000 job placements and around 11,000 apprenticeships, focusing particularly on regions such as Africa, Latin America, and Asia, where youth unemployment rates are notably high.

The program has evolved significantly, initially starting as a European-focused initiative and expanding globally in 2019. This expansion reflects Nestlé’s adaptability and commitment to responding to the economic challenges facing young people across various regions. The company’s efforts align with broader goals of economic development and social impact, aiming to equip the next generation with the tools necessary to navigate an ever-changing job landscape.

Key Partnerships and Innovative Programs

The success of the Nestlé Youth Employment Scheme can be attributed to strategic partnerships with major corporations, including Cargill, Buhler, and Rockwell Automation. These collaborations help provide young people with valuable training and development opportunities in diverse sectors such as agribusiness and technology.

One standout initiative is the Code4YOUth hackathon, which promotes digital literacy and innovation among young participants. Launched in partnership with HCL Tech, Microsoft, and Publicis Group, this program allows young individuals to develop and pitch digital solutions that address pressing social and environmental issues. By fostering innovation, the Nestlé Youth Employment Scheme not only enhances participants’ technical skills but also encourages critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, essential for today’s job market.

Addressing Vulnerability in Employment

The Nestlé Youth Employment Scheme also focuses on supporting underserved communities, including refugees and marginalized youth. In collaboration with organizations like JA Europe, Nestlé tailors training programs to meet the unique needs of these groups. Success stories, such as that of Ukrainian refugee Irina Berestova, highlight how the scheme equips individuals with the necessary skills and guidance to integrate into their local labor markets​.

Preparing for the Future

As highlighted by Nestlé CEO Laurent Freixe, the rapidly evolving nature of work, driven by technology and automation, necessitates a continuous focus on skill development. The Youth Employment Scheme remains committed to addressing these changes by promoting digital inclusion and soft skills training. This ensures that young people are not only prepared for today’s challenges but also for the future workforce, which increasingly relies on technological expertise and adaptability.

Conclusion

As Nestlé celebrates the tenth anniversary of its Youth Employment Scheme, the company’s ongoing commitment to empowering young individuals remains evident. With millions of young people benefiting from training and employment opportunities, Nestlé continues to play a vital role in addressing global youth unemployment. As the company looks to the future, it is poised to further strengthen its impact, ensuring that the next generation is well-equipped to contribute to and thrive in an evolving global economy.

FAQs

What is the Nestlé Youth Employment Scheme?

The Nestlé Youth Employment Scheme is a global initiative launched in 2014 aimed at enhancing job prospects for young people aged 18 to 30. It focuses on providing skills training, job placements, and apprenticeships to empower youth and address the challenges of youth unemployment.

How many young people have benefited from the program?

Since its inception, over 40 million young people have benefited from the Nestlé Youth Employment Scheme. In 2023 alone, the initiative facilitated around 24,000 job placements and 11,000 apprenticeships, significantly contributing to reducing youth unemployment.

What are some key initiatives under the scheme?

Key initiatives under the Youth Employment Scheme include partnerships with companies for training programs, the Code4YOUth hackathon promoting digital skills, and tailored programs for underserved communities, ensuring inclusivity and diversity in training opportunities.