On Friday, October 25th, the Rwenzori Ballroom at the Kampala Sheraton Hotel buzzed with excitement and unity as the Jazz Benefit Concert ’24 brought together over 250 people for an unforgettable evening of music and purpose. Hosted by Jazz Benefit Concert Events in partnership with the Bantwana Initiative Uganda (BIU) and Career Chapters Africa, this inspiring night centered on one crucial mission: Amplify and Elevating the Youth.

Uganda’s youth face unique and pressing challenges as they seek pathways to meaningful work. According to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), youth unemployment rates for individuals aged 18-30 rose from 12.7% in 2012/13 to 13.0% in 2019/20. While this increase may seem slight, the reality is much starker: millions of young people remain unemployed, underemployed, or lack access to the skills and resources needed for a sustainable future. In a country where nearly 78% of the population is under 30, these statistics underscore the urgency of investing in youth empowerment and skilling initiatives. Without access to skill development, Uganda’s youth are often left out of a rapidly advancing job market that increasingly requires specialized abilities, technical knowledge, and professional networks.

The Jazz Benefit Concert ’24 brought this issue to the forefront, rallying support for impactful programs aimed at addressing these gaps. The evening’s theme, “Amplify and Elevate,” embodied the commitment of corporate leaders, educators, musicians, and community members to lift up young Ugandans by creating access to skilling opportunities that prepare them for a brighter, more secure future. Each moment of the night, from the heartfelt jazz performances to the inspiring speeches, was a call to action for the community to play a role in shaping Uganda’s future workforce.

The programs supported by funds raised during the Jazz Benefit Concert focus on equipping young people with both hard and soft skills needed in today’s job market. For example, youth who join BIU-supported initiatives can receive hands-on training in areas like soap making, basket and bag weaving, and even hair braiding. Through honing these skills, participants not only enhance their employability but also gain the confidence to create self-sustaining livelihoods.

In addition to vocational training, many initiatives also prioritize critical soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are essential for workplace success. Through mentorship and work placements, young people are introduced to real-life work environments, allowing them to build professional networks and acquire firsthand experience that’s often a barrier to securing full-time employment.

The impact of these skilling programs is evident in the stories of youth who have transitioned into gainful employment and entrepreneurship. Take, for instance, Brenda, a 24-year-old from Kampala who joined a BIU program with little formal education but a strong will to succeed. After receiving training in soap making, she was able to sell her soap in the village where she stays. Today, she is assisted by two others in her neighborhood, showing them what’s possible with dedication and the right support.

Uganda’s future depends on its young people. With the majority of the population under 30, the country’s economic progress is directly tied to the strength and capabilities of its youth. Studies show that empowering youth with job-specific skills doesn’t just improve individual livelihoods; it boosts economic growth, reduces poverty, and helps to create safer communities. Through investing in youth skilling, Uganda is investing in a generation that can lead the country toward a sustainable and prosperous future.

However, the journey is far from complete. Uganda’s job market remains highly competitive, and many young people continue to face obstacles such as limited access to higher education, a shortage of available jobs, and a mismatch between academic training and labor market demands. Concerted efforts from communities, corporate partners, educational institutions, and NGOs are essential to ensure that every young person has an opportunity to contribute to Uganda’s development.

The Jazz Benefit Concert ’24 highlighted how collective action can drive meaningful change. Thanks to the generosity of attendees, donors, and supporters, critical resources are now available to expand BIU’s youth programs, creating more opportunities for young people to pursue skill-building, entrepreneurship, and professional growth.