Focus Areas

We believe youth employment is key to unlocking prosperity.

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The Mastercard Foundation works with visionary organizations to advance education and financial inclusion to enable young people in Africa and Indigenous youth in Canada to access dignified and fulfilling work.

Our focus areas reflect the critical need to accelerate economic growth through inclusive interventions that drive productivity, innovation, and exports.

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Education and Transitions

Focusing on education ensures that young people have access to quality, relevant education and skills to transition into dignified and fulfilling work.

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Digital

The Mastercard Foundation is committed to digitally empowering young people through skills development, digital entrepreneurship, e-learning, EdTech, and digital economy research.

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Agriculture

Our work is aimed at creating agrifood systems in Africa that are resilient, sustainable, and equitable, and that create work opportunities for young people.

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A teacher working with young children.

Refugees and Displaced Persons

The Mastercard Foundation's goal is to enable 2.5 million refugees and displaced persons in host communities in Africa to secure dignified and fulfilling livelihoods.

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A student in the Zambia Nurse and Life Skills Training Program.

Health

We are committed to securing Africa’s long-term health resilience by developing a skilled workforce.

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Disability Inclusion

Disability inclusion is central to the realization of the Mastercard Foundation’s vision and mission. It is reflected in the Foundation’s strategy, Young Africa Works, which will enable 30 million youth, particularly women, to obtain dignified and fulfilling work by 2030.

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