Indonesia continues to face significant challenges in employment, with approximately 3.7 million unemployed individuals coming from vocational and secondary school backgrounds. This is largely due to the mismatch between graduates’ competencies and industry needs, particularly in the vocational sector. To address this, revitalizing vocational education is crucial through strong collaboration between the education system and the labor market. The goal is to ensure that training aligns with market demands and equips students with relevant skills, knowledge, and mindsets.
For the past 25 years, YCAB Foundation has remained committed to empowering Indonesian youth through its Youth Employment Program. This program offers comprehensive vocational training, soft skills development, and job placement support, with a focus on work readiness and sustainable livelihoods.
“In the context of this year’s Maybank Marathon Charity Run, YCAB invited runners to run with a mission to support youth employment. The goal is to expand access to job opportunities for young people by providing training in technical skills, soft skills, and financial literacy.” said Saneri Shere, Head of Partnership and Communications at YCAB Foundation, during the Impact Talks session discussing the positive impact of the Youth Employment Program.
One of the key initiatives this year was the collaboration between YCAB Foundation and Charity Runners during the Maybank Marathon. The public was invited to support the sustainability of the Youth Employment Program so it could reach over 200 young people in West Java. All donations raised will be allocated transparently to training and job mentoring, providing participants with greater opportunities to access decent and dignified employment.
The race was held in Bali on August 24, 2025, with six participants running as YCAB Charity Runners, carrying a clear social mission. Each step taken was not merely about crossing the finish line but symbolized hope and access to better employment opportunities and brighter futures for the younger generation in Indonesia. Through this participation, a total of Rp 348,730,952 was raised, with Romo Benny, Siska Triendent, and Zely Fachrudin recognized as the top three achievers.
The collaboration with the Maybank Marathon demonstrates that small steps can lead to significant change. Together, we are not only running toward the finish line but also opening pathways to a better future for Indonesian youth. Let us continue to support the Youth Employment Program so that more young people across the country can access opportunities to grow, work, and live independently.