All young people deserve equal access to opportunities to improve their lives.
The different types of networks that can support young people are listed below:
Why Networks
Individuals
Young people can access a range of benefits through formal and informal networks, including those centred around a school or a programme. These include
- Information about diverse careers and practical insights from the world of work from practitioners and industry insiders
- Economic resources and opportunities from fellow network members, such as jobs, internships, clients or partners
- A sense of belonging from the community
- Relatable role models who allow them to aspire to achieve beyond the limits of what society might precondition them to believe.
Therefore networks, including alumni networks, are often described as a form of social, economic, human and civic capital for youth.
Organisations, Programmes and Communities
Networks can also positively change young people’s lives indirectly.
In the education sector, for example, networks of educators and former teacher trainees increase the quality of teaching. Teachers are encouraged to collaborate and exchange ideas about how to tackle issues such as absenteeism and drop-out rates, or how to use technology effectively for remote learning of students from disadvantaged households.
Learners and students then benefit from higher attendance, educational attainment, and better prospects for future quality of life.
Similar pathways to change for young people happen through networks built for public sector leaders, who develop their skills and understanding of inclusion and social transformation. This can lead to the more effective measuring of impact and better programming for young people.
Systems
Another indirect way that networks change young women and men’s lives are through systems change.
Networks, such as Global Schools Forum, Teach for All, Catalyst 2030 and PAL Network, bring together like minded, yet diverse stakeholders from government to civil society. They catalyse collective sector learning and action which can be used at a global level.
While some work within a sector, such as education, others collaborate across boundaries and support young people’s lives holistically.
