TUI Futureshapers Sweden

Despite its strong economy and social welfare system, socioeconomic inequality still exists in Sweden. Disparities are evident in income, education, employment, and in access to opportunities, especially amongst certain demographic groups, including young people. In areas like Botkyrka and Haninge, which are on the outskirts of Stockholm, young people from disadvantaged backgrounds may face barriers to quality education, which limits their future prospects. Unemployment rates are high due to limited job opportunities, lack of access to networks and discrimination.

In partnership with Mentor Sweden, the TUI Care Foundation is tackling this issue by enhancing the entrepreneurial skills of young people and providing them with a long-term mentoring programme. The two-year project includes two holistic, five-day bootcamps which focus on social entrepreneurship in tourism. The young people taking part receive training in social entrepreneurship, concept development, project management, and leadership skills. They also work on cases to address socio-economic challenges. The participants can continue their entrepreneurial journey through a mentor programme that includes different outdoor and indoor activities and meetings with a mentor. This creates an individual development opportunity both on a personal and professional level, to help improve what may be limited prospects or career choices. The mentorship lasts for at least six months, with the possibility of extending with the same mentor for further six months to a total of 12 months.

In addition, students can learn and be inspired by experienced speakers through the Mentor Inspo digital programme. They also benefit from workshops at schools that will guide them in their career and life choices, increase their self-awareness and equip them with the confidence and power to act.

Overall, the project provides 160 workshops to 240 young people and enhances the prospects of over 4500 youth.

Mentor Sweden is part of Mentor International, which was founded in 1994 and is the international network for the various mentor countries. The initiative for Mentor International came from H.M. Queen Silvia in consultation with the World Health Organization (WHO), and the organisation was founded with the basic idea that young people need adult role models. Mentor Sweden is a non-profit organisation that helps young people grow, become strong and believe in themselves with the help of mentorship. Its mentors and role models unleash the potential of young people. By listening, encouraging and inspiring, together they create a society where everyone gets the chance to develop and no one is left behind.