What we do
Ending extreme youth unemployment takes more than training. YEEL works with young people, with the people around them, and with the systems that decide whether there are jobs at all.
From the first business idea to the first job, and a voice in the decisions that affect them.
Entrepreneurship
Somalis have traded for centuries, and many young people want to start their own business. Our course gives them the mindset, knowledge and tools to start a business and keep it running, from business ideas and financial management to marketing, self-care and a full business plan. It is free, and we cover transport and meals.
Business incubation
A good idea needs money and support to become a business. We give our graduates access to seed funding, productive assets and direct loans, and we stay with them through the first hard months with mentoring and business development support.
Job readiness and job connection
Somaliland has no job centres for young people, so YEEL does that work. We train young people in the skills employers ask for, help them write a CV and prepare for interviews, and connect them to internships and jobs in sectors that are hiring.
Young change makers
A job gives a young person an income. We also want young people to have a voice in public life, socially and politically as well as economically. Our graduates organise themselves, speak up on the issues that affect them and take part in the decisions that shape their communities.
Families, communities and institutions decide whether young people get a fair chance.
Community support
Young people go further when the people around them back them. We help communities build capacity, hold duty bearers to account and act together for more and better jobs.
Cross-sector synergy
No single organisation can end youth unemployment. We work in consortia with companies, government and international partners, and push for policies that create jobs.
Equal opportunities
Most of our participants are women. We work on the barriers and social norms that keep women and other excluded groups out of work.
Mental wellbeing
Somaliland has almost no mental health care. Self-care, mindset and life skills are part of every course we run.
Climate resilience
We help communities adopt sustainable practices, from cleaner cold chains in fisheries to sustainable business methods.
Cool, Clean and Circular
Cold chain and jobs in Somaliland's fishery sector, with CT-Technologies, Nordic Seafood and Fresh Fish Company. Funded by Danida Green Business Partnerships.
About the project
WOMPOL
With the Liberal Party of Norway (Venstre), we build democratic knowledge among women and youth in Somaliland.
About the project
Business training for single mothers
With SKT Welfare and Rida Agency Foundation: 27 single mothers in Hargeisa and Burao, now in mentoring.
About the project
Women Entrepreneurs Burao
An RVO pilot for 25 women who run small businesses in Burao, January to June 2026.
About the project
Shaqo Platform
A locally led initiative across the Somali peninsula to end extreme youth unemployment.
About the project