In a move aligned with International Youth Day, KFC, the world-renowned fried chicken restaurant chain, announced a collaborative effort with Plan International. This partnership aims to equip young people, particularly girls and individuals with disabilities, with the skills and resources necessary to pursue fulfilling careers – both within KFC and beyond.

Plan International, a leading global organization dedicated to advancing children’s rights and gender equality, boasts a presence in over 80 countries. Their work focuses on empowering young people and their communities by providing resources and support to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential.

The Need and the Opportunity

A staggering 75% of young people aged 15 to 24 in 92 countries lack the fundamental skills required for employment, as reported by the Education Commission and UNICEF. KFC’s partnership with Plan International seeks to bridge this gap by providing tailored training and resources to young people, empowering them to pursue their professional aspirations.

The Partnership’s Four Pillars

This collaborative effort is built upon four key objectives:

1. Career Pathways: Equipping young people with the tools and knowledge to access desired employment opportunities.
2. Skill Development: Fostering the development of relevant and marketable skills that are highly sought-after in today’s job market.
3. Inclusive Work Environment: Cultivating a workplace where young people feel comfortable expressing themselves authentically and valued for their unique contributions.
4. Positive Social Norms: Promoting the idea of young people as valuable economic actors who significantly contribute to society.

KFC’s Commitment

“We are incredibly honored to join forces with Plan International to nurture the potential of young people across the globe,” said Meredith Krones, Integrated Communications and Social Purpose Lead at KFC Global. “Addressing inequalities and empowering individuals is a core value at KFC, and this partnership allows us to create a lasting positive impact within the communities we serve. Regardless of whether a young person chooses to pursue a career at KFC or elsewhere, we firmly believe that this initiative will pave the way for a brighter future for all involved.”

KFC will contribute to Plan International’s Skills & Work Fund as part of this partnership. Additionally, they will collaborate on developing best practice guides for youth-friendly recruitment, training, and retention strategies. Furthermore, KFC will open its doors to young people, offering them the opportunity to experience a day in the life of a KFC executive through firsthand observation.

Plan International’s Perspective

“Our partnership with KFC Global holds immense potential to create real opportunities for young people, particularly young women and those facing disabilities,” said Shanna Marzilli, President and CEO at Plan International USA. “This initiative goes beyond simply providing jobs; it’s about empowering young people who may face challenges to develop the necessary skills and confidence to build their own futures.”

Building on Existing Efforts

This partnership complements KFC’s ongoing efforts to support youth employability through various initiatives around the world.

• KFC Thailand’s Bucket Search Program: This program unlocks opportunities for students who have dropped out of school by providing confidence-building activities and vocational exploration workshops. These combined work and study opportunities aim to reintegrate young people back into the education system, aligning with Thailand’s zero dropout vision. Since its inception in 2023, Bucket Search has successfully helped 130 school dropouts re-enroll in the education system.
• KFC UK and Ireland’s Hatch Employability Program: This program focuses on providing young people with access to their first job, a life-changing experience for many. Through Hatch, over 825 young people have gained valuable skills and opportunities, fostering confidence, resilience, and aspirations, ultimately leading them towards sustainable employment.

KFC’s partnership with Plan International signifies a significant step towards empowering young people globally. By providing them with the necessary tools and resources, this collaboration aims to equip them for success in their chosen career paths, paving the way for a brighter future.

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