Youth Optimism, Meet Opportunity: Bridging the Gap Between Young People’s Career Aspirations & Ability to Succeed

Young people today make up the largest youth population in history. Their successes and struggles are as diverse as their personalities and aspirations. However, in all corners of the globe, this generation faces a common challenge: persistent, high rates of youth unemployment. Left unaddressed, the consequences reverberate across our cities and affect us all. When young people don’t see or have a sustainable economic path, our families and communities also suffer. In fact, the futures of cities are intrinsically tied to the economic success of young people.

There is a silver lining, however, and it comes directly from the young people themselves. We know that young people remain optimistic, entrepreneurial, and have an idea for what they need to succeed. We wanted to capture these drivers and learn how municipal leaders, civil society, the private sector, and others can work together to bridge the gap between the economic aspirations – where they want to go - and the reality of young people – where they actually are. Young people believe in a brighter future and it is up to us to help afford them that opportunity. That’s why the Citi Foundation announced our commitment to go “All In” for young people – Click here to read more.