Secure livelihoods for vulnerable youth in Senegal

Dear Friend,

At just 16, Idy already carries responsibilities far beyond his years.

A second-year metalworking student in Bargny, Senegal, he divides his time between training, working in a local workshop and caring for his father, who suffered a stroke two years ago. Whatever little money he earns goes towards supporting his family.

During a recent home visit, his father told our team:

"I am very proud of him because he takes such good care of me despite my illness. He helps me with everything I need and is always there for me. [...] I pray wholeheartedly that he succeeds in his training because his greatest ambition is to ease our burden."

After getting to know Idy and his family through individual interviews and home visits, Aspyre Africa stepped in to cover his training fees and essential needs, helping him continue his education without adding to his family's financial burden.

Then there's Aïcha. After losing her father, she struggled at school and eventually dropped out. With her mother unable to afford vocational training, she spent her days helping at home.

Thanks to the commitment of the director of Bargny's vocational training centre, Aïcha was offered another chance. Following individual interviews and a family visit, Aspyre Africa stepped in to cover her training fees and essential needs. She is now beginning her catering training — an opportunity previously beyond her family's means.

When she first heard that support might be available, Aïcha told us…

"I sincerely thank the Director of the Bargny Vocational Training Centre for giving me the opportunity to pursue vocational training. I will always be grateful to her, and to you as well for considering supporting me." — Aïcha

A Snapshot from Bargny

The CFP of Bargny is just one of the government training centres we partner with, but its latest results give us plenty to celebrate!

Of the 40 young people supported by Aspyre Africa during the past academic year:

• 14 out of 15 passed their diploma examinations.
• 16 progressed to the next level.
• 6 are repeating a year, while 3 continue developing their practical skills.

Our support goes far beyond training fees — from individual guidance and family follow-up to equipment, practical materials and support towards employment or self-employment.

One recent example is the provision of materials to help nine graduates, including five young people living with disabilities, continue developing their skills through a post-training programme.

As Bargny's training centre explains in its end-of-year report:

"Aspyre Africa's support has been a decisive factor in improving learning conditions. Financial support for beneficiaries has helped reduce dropouts, limit absences and strengthen students' motivation." 

GivingTuesday: A Gift That Goes Further

In 2027, we want to help more young people like Idy and Aïcha, while strengthening public training centres so they can offer lasting guidance, practical support and pathways into employment.

SAVE THE DATE: Tuesday, 1 December 2026!

On GivingTuesday, your generosity has the opportunity to go even further! Eligible donations made during GlobalGiving's campaign will help Aspyre Africa earn a share of its $500,000 matching fund.

Amid the Black Friday bargains and Christmas shopping, here's an opportunity to give something that can last far beyond the festive season: the chance for a young person to learn a trade, earn a living and support their family.

Please mark your calendar for 1 December and help us make the most of this special opportunity!

Thank you for believing in young people like Idy and Aïcha — and in everything they have yet to achieve.

With gratitude,

Savina & the Aspyre Africa Team