Launch of "Bridges of Opportunities" in Cairo Cairo, Egypt, November 17th, 2024 marks the launch of the "Bridges of Opportunities" project, a multi-stakeholder initiative aimed at strengthening social inclusion for vulnerable youths in Cairo. This collaboration, anchored by the strategic partnership between AFD and Sawiris Foundation for Social Development, brings together foundations, civil society, French and Egyptian companies aiming to support children and youth living in street situations (CYSS), with a specific focus on young girls. This project, led by Samusocial International (Egypt), in partnership with France through AFD, the Sawiris Foundation for Social Development, Ora Developers Egypt, the RATP Group Foundation, RATP Dev Mobility Cairo, and ALEXBANK, represents the first joint operation under the new memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed today between the French Development Agency (AFD) and the Sawiris Foundation for Social Development (SFSD). Under the patronage of the French Ambassador to Egypt, H.E. Mr. Éric Chevallier, this event highlights The renewal of France and SFSD’s shared commitment to supporting vulnerable populations, reinforcing their long-standing partnership for an additional five years. The launch of “Bridges of Opportunities”. "Bridges of Opportunities" seeks to empower children and youth in street situations through a holistic approach that combines sports, education, arts, and vocational training. This initiative aims to provide pathways to autonomy and socio-professional reintegration, directly supporting around 450 young people (with a focus on young women) to help them realize their potential and achieve social and professional inclusion. In this context, the project fosters a supportive environment where young people can develop essential life skills and strengthen their resilience. The partners, convinced of the transformative power of these opportunities, are working together to positively shape the lives of these young individuals. Through coordinated efforts with NGOs, educational institutions, and local government centers, "Bridges of Opportunities" will offer sports activities, life-skills training, psychosocial support, career-focused workshops, and artistic laying the foundation for lasting change. This collaboration is reinforced by a formal agreement among all partners, aiming to catalyze new partnerships and to mobilize a robust network of public and private stakeholders committed to a shared social impact mission – each of which leveraging their unique resources towards that common goal. This project serves as a concrete example of cooperation, demonstrating how collective efforts can pave the way for inclusion by providing genuine opportunities for youth empowerment and social transformation. The agreements signed, and the project launched, embody a shared vision of social impact, creating pathways for youth empowerment and sustainable change.
