Inclusion and employment pathways for youth and migrants in Calabria

Calabria is one of the Italian regions most affected by youth unemployment and socio-economic inequalities, with a growing number of young people and migrants in need of training, employment, and inclusion opportunities.

AVSI implemented the project “Opening up to the Future – Pathways to Employment Integration and Strengthening CSOs to Foster Strong and Welcoming Communities” with the support of Enel Cuore Onlus, together with Cooperativa Sociale La Terra, DB IME ETS - Naples, and Amici di Don Bosco Soverato APS.

The project was launched to provide new training and employment integration opportunities for vulnerable individuals, particularly NEET youth and migrants, addressing the most urgent needs of the local area while strengthening the network of local stakeholders.

At the same time, in Cosenza, the project strengthened Cooperativa La Terra, a local third-sector organization, through capacity-building activities, providing training and professional development opportunities for social workers to enhance their educational and management skills, while also developing roles dedicated to social project design and fundraising.

In Soverato, the initiative revolves around Don Mimmo Madonna, a Salesian priest and director of the Don Bosco Oratory in Soverato, who has for years supported Italian and foreign young people on their paths toward integration and independence. Through his work, Don Mimmo builds bridges between young people and the local community, collaborating with cafés, restaurants, and families to create trust, connections, and concrete opportunities. Thanks to this network, Mohamed, Etienne, and Bakary, who arrived in Italy after long and difficult journeys, found employment as waiters at Bar Rose, a landmark venue in the center of Soverato. In their free time, they play sports, go to the gym, play basketball, or relax by the sea, building a daily routine shaped by normality and hope.

Alongside these personal stories, the project has had a broader impact: 33 young people took part in training, career guidance, and internship programs with local companies in the tourism, personal services, and hospitality sectors, putting their newly acquired skills into practice and opening up new employment opportunities.

At the same time, 22 third-sector professionals received training to strengthen the quality of educational and integration services, helping to consolidate a local network capable of supporting young people and migrants on their paths towards social and labour-market inclusion.

This photo series tells their stories through everyday gestures and ordinary places, portraying a journey of dignity, hope, and the possibility of a better future.