The Young Africa Works (YAW) Program is the MasterCard Foundation’s ambitious, long-term strategy to tackle youth unemployment across the continent. In Uganda, this commitment is nothing short of revolutionary: the goal is to enable 4.3 million young people to access dignified and fulfilling work by 2030.

This program moves beyond temporary relief. Launched in Uganda in 2019, YAW is focused on systemic change by breaking down the barriers that keep youth—especially young women (70%), refugees (7%), and people with disabilities (3%)—from securing stable, income-generating livelihoods. The program provides the critical support needed to turn ambition into enterprise, primarily through two pillars:

• Access to Finance: Providing affordable loans and business capital to start or scale micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).
• Business Development: Offering mentorship, coaching, and strategic market linkages that are essential for long-term survival and growth.

A powerful component of the YAW initiative is its exhibitions, where young beneficiaries showcase the innovative ways they are thriving. These exhibitions are more than just events; they are a snapshot of Uganda’s future, demonstrating how targeted investment in youth is the most effective way to drive economic transformation.

In 2024, Newman’s was privileged to be a part of such an exhibition held at the Serena Hotel. We were deeply honored to host the Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, Hon. Dr. Balaam Barugahare Attenyi, at the Newman’s exhibit. The event was dedicated to showcasing the incredible ways young people are succeeding under the YAW program.

The young entrepreneurs at the exhibition presented a diverse array of thriving businesses, spanning sectors from agribusiness to the digital economy. Their success proves they are ready to become the innovators and employers of tomorrow.

We are honored to be a partner and advocate for initiatives that support Uganda’s greatest asset: its young people. The success stories from the YAW exhibition are powerful proof that when youth are given the right skills, resources, and opportunities, they don’t just find work—they transform their communities.

We look forward to continuing to support the growth and success of these visionary young leaders as they shape the future of our nation.