Bridges to the Future is a 5-year initiative in São Paulo focused on empowering youth – especially young women – toward social inclusion, freedom from gender-based violence, and the pursuit of life aspirations. Targeting economically vulnerable areas in the city’s south and west, the project addresses challenges like adolescent pregnancy, early motherhood, and limited job opportunities. It operates through four key pillars: empowerment and gender norms, education, economic empowerment, and enabling environments.
Youth are actively involved from the start, helping shape the methodology and identify barriers to labor market access. Sustainability is ensured through educational materials aimed at peers, families, professionals and companies.
Two complementary initiatives expand the project's reach: Cambalhotas engages children aged 7–11 in three centers, promoting rights awareness and a protective environment, while Generation (Geração) empowers adolescents aged 12–14 with knowledge on rights, gender-based violence prevention, emotional skills, and financial literacy. Both aim to foster autonomy, school retention and safer environments through family and community involvement.
Pictures: © Plan International