Ticket to Life: Empowering 400 Vulnerable Youth in Comoros for a Brighter Future
The Ticket to Life project has been a beacon of hope for over 400 young people in orphanages across the Comoros, offering life-changing experiences and skills. Through Scouting activities, the program fosters inclusion and ensures that no young person is left behind by offering opportunities for socio-economic integration for youth living in challenging circumstances, such as street children, refugees, children with disabilities, and those living in extreme poverty.
Implemented by the World Scout Bureau Africa Support Centre, the program spans 11 African countries, including Comoros, Benin, Botswana, Burundi, Burkina Faso, the DRC, Kenya, Malawi, Niger, Togo, and Uganda. Its goal is to build brighter futures and empower vulnerable young people to grow into responsible adults.
Support for Education and Vocational Training
Since its launch in October 2022 in Comoros, the project has been dedicated to empowering young people through vocational training and education, helping them acquire the skills needed to succeed in life. It has made a significant impact on the lives of young people who would otherwise have limited access to decent employment and economic opportunities. Seventeen young people, aged 18 to 35, were trained in sewing khaki shirts for the Scouts. These young scouts have now been added to the list of approved vendors, supplying these shirts to the Scouts in Comoros, thereby creating new economic opportunities for them.
Abouubalye, a 23-year-old who was one of the Scouts who completed the six-month sewing course, shared how the Ticket-to-Life project has transformed his life. With the support of a seed grant, he was able to open his sewing shop. Reflecting on his journey, he expressed his gratitude, saying,
Before enrolling in Ticket-to-Life, Abouubalye faced significant challenges. He lost his job in 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and struggled without a stable source of income.
Through the skills they have acquired, the young people now feel a renewed sense of belonging in their communities. This has enabled them to integrate more fully and actively contribute to local development. Unlike before, when they felt disconnected and faced limited opportunities, they are now empowered to make a positive impact in their neighbourhoods.
Strengthening Scouting and positive community impact
The impact of the project goes beyond the individual; it also transforms the perception of Scouting and reinforces the scouting values of the dignity and protection of all young people. Through the Interaction with scouting in the context of the project, the young people realised that Scouting is not just a place for leisure or community work, but also a platform where they can learn useful skills that make them ready for life. The Scout groups involved in the project are showing increased motivation and active participation in activities of all kinds.
The Ticket to Life project in Comoros has done more than just create economic opportunities for young people through skills development; it has also played a crucial role in fostering their integration into local communities. By providing young people with valuable skills, the project has helped them connect with their surroundings and contribute to positive change. As a result, Scouting is increasingly becoming a powerful vehicle for hope and transformation for future generations in Comoros.
Looking Ahead
By 2026, the Ticket to Life project aims to support approximately 2,000 children in orphanages across Comoros. Its focus areas will include education, building self-worth and self-esteem, personal development, self-exploration, and nurturing team spirit. With the continued support of its partners, the project aims to expand beyond the 11 countries where it currently operates, reaching even more communities in need.
