Every year on February 20, we commemorate the World Day of Social Justice, which serves as a time to reflect on human rights, economic inclusion and equity in international development. Published by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, following the theme Strengthening a Just Transition for a Sustainable Future, it raises an important question: As the globe transitions to a greener, digital future, who could be left behind?
The shift towards low-carbon economies, technologically advanced and sustainable industries presents a vital opportunity for progress, but it also requires us to confront the potential economic and social divides. Millions of determined workers and innovative entrepreneurs in vulnerable regions risk losing their livelihoods unless inclusive policies and supportive financial opportunities are in place. A just transition ensures a sustainable future that is both fair and filled with opportunities for all.
It emphasizes:
Economic policies that foster inclusion
Green jobs that uplift marginalized communities
Financial systems that serve those most in need
Education and training that empower workers for the new economy
At Bridging Gaps, we are dedicated to these principles. We actively empower refugee settlements and underserved communities in the Global South to unlock potential and drive meaningful change.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Social Justice
The World Day of Social Justice highlights several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Bridging Gaps' initiatives contribute directly to these goals:
SDG 1: No Poverty
Economic exclusion and limited financial resources keep millions trapped in poverty. A just transition is crucial for creating new opportunities that empower those in need, emphasizing the pledge by United Nations member states along with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development to "leave no one behind." Bridging Gaps plays an important role by providing microloans to refugee and marginalized entrepreneurs, helping to break the cycle of poverty and develop financial independence.
We foster financial inclusion initiatives for communities lacking access to traditional banking, enabling self-sufficient livelihoods and a more equitable economy. In Uganda's Bidibidi Refugee Settlement, our project has already made a significant impact by providing over 55 microloans.
(Betty Sunday, a shoe business owner, is one of our entrepreneurs who has already paid her loan forward in parts in the Bidibidi Refugee Settlement.)
SDG 4: Quality Education
A just transition in today's evolving economy requires reskilling workers. Bridging Gaps supports this by providing small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs with social entrepreneurship training and peer-to-peer mentorship.
Our partnerships allow us to develop tailored programs that address the unique challenges faced by entrepreneurs in refugee settlements and informal economies in the Global South, ensuring our initiatives are practical and relevant.
In Madagascar, we are equipping youth entrepreneurs with vital business training and financial resources, scaling our efforts to promote financial inclusion across low-income communities in Africa, Latin America, and beyond.
(Entrepreneurship workshops organized by Bridging Gaps in Ethiopia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana and Madagascar.)
SDG 5: Gender Equality
Women, particularly those in low-income and displaced communities, face significant systemic barriers to economic participation. Bridging Gaps addresses this critical issue by prioritizing women-led businesses for access to microloans and training programs essential for building sustainable enterprises.
Investing in female entrepreneurs enhances women's economic independence and creates more leadership opportunities within their communities. This comprehensive approach fosters equity and empowers women to thrive in business.
Our expansion into Brazil empowers Indigenous Venezuelan refugee women who launched eco-friendly social enterprises, while our new partnership in the Democratic Republic of Congo enabled women entrepreneurs in various refugee camps around Goma to transform their livelihoods.
(Gineth, one of the indigenous Venezuelan woman, showcases traditional motifs while providing reusable menstrual products to her community, promoting cultural pride and sustainability.)
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
Transitioning to sustainable economies is essential, yet it poses risks such as job losses and increased inequality without proper support. By prioritizing social entrepreneurship, we enable individuals to address community challenges with tailored solutions that create job opportunities.
For instance, Philip Ochan from Yumbe District in Uganda is running a business focused on sustainable agriculture and offers food to mothers in the community at no cost. By targeting marginalized groups—such as women, youth and people with disabilities—social entrepreneurs can address inequalities while generating gainful employment.
(Philip Ochan’s sustainable agriculture business is giving back to the community.)
SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
Economic systems often favor the privileged, marginalizing those without access to education and resources. Bridging Gaps tackles this issue by offering social entrepreneurship training for vulnerable groups like women and refugees, equipping them with essential skills to start sustainable businesses. We provide interest-free microloans to help launch these ventures, enabling participants to access economic opportunities and gain independence.
Every loan repaid creates another opportunity and each business built is a step toward equity and social justice!
Be part of the change: How you can partner with us
For corporations:
Partner with us to integrate our initiatives into your corporate social responsibility programs for meaningful social change.
Co-develop financial programs that support marginalized entrepreneurs and community-led green initiatives.
Create co-branded marketing material, showcasing our joint impact.
For community leaders and CBOs:
Join our Pay-it-forward Alliance.
Use our comprehensive social entrepreneurship training kit to offer mentorship and coaching to community members.
Partner with us to provide interest-free loans to deserving social entrepreneurs in your community.
The time to act is now!
Comments