Safeguarding for Program Participants

Your Safety and Well-Being as a Program Participant

Safety, dignity, and well-being are at the heart of everything the Mastercard Foundation supports.

You deserve to participate in programs where you feel respected, included, and safe to learn, grow, and express yourself. Safeguarding is how we help ensure that no one harms you, pressures you, or treats you in a way that makes you uncomfortable.

If something feels wrong, you have the right to speak up and be heard.

Safe and respectful behaviour when interacting with staff, volunteers, or other participants.

Any behaviour that makes you feel unsafe or uncomfortable will be taken seriously.

Behaviours that are not acceptable and should be reported right away:

• Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse.
• Bullying, threats, or intimidation.
• Requests for romantic or sexual contact.
• Being taken somewhere alone without reason.
• Inappropriate messages, images, or comments online.
• Taking photos or videos of you without your permission.
• Asking for money, gifts, or favours to access a program.

You never have to tolerate any behaviour that violates your boundaries or rights.

You can report a concern in any way that feels safe to you:

You can speak to a staff member or mentor that you trust, or contact the safeguarding focal person at the program. Or you can use the reporting channel your program provides, or ask someone to help you make a report. You will be treated with respect, your information will be handled carefully, and you will not be punished for speaking up.