What comes to mind when you hear someone talk about Madagascar? Stunning beaches and coastlines? Majestic baobab trees and vanilla plantations? Or perhaps some penguins smiling and waving while lying on the beach from the movie of Madagascar?
Beyond its breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity, Madagascar faces a stark reality—poverty remains a critical challenge. According to an assesement report by the World Bank, as of 2022, over 75% of the national population lived in poverty. Without access to education and economic opportunities, many young people struggle to build a sustainable future.
That’s why Bridging Gaps and LENS have joined forces—to equip young entrepreneurs in Madagascar with the skills and resources they need to turn their business ideas into reality.
Strength in Collaboration: Empowering Madagascar’s Youth
When Bridging Gaps first connected with LENS, one thing was clear: young people in Madagascar hava ambitions but often lack the tools to bring their ideas to life. Many face challenges like limited access to training, financial constraints, and language barriers, making it difficult to turn their ambitions into sustainable businesses.
That’s why we came together—to change that reality.
LENS has long been a pillar of youth development and vocational training in Madagascar’s SAVA region, helping young people gain essential life skills. At Bridging Gaps, with our focus on entrepreneurship and microfinance, we saw the opportunity to provide additional support. By combining forces, we are building a stronger foundation for young entrepreneurs, ensuring they have not just dreams, but the knowledge and financial backing to make them a reality.
A Powerful Start: The First Entrepreneurship Training
This February, we launched our first Social Entrepreneurship Training, marking the beginning of an exciting journey for aspiring entrepreneurs in Madagascar. More than 400 participants attended, eager to gain hands-on experience in developing real business ideas and receiving instant feedback from facilitators.
The LENS center was packed to capacity, with some participants even sitting outside—determined not to miss a single insight. The interactive format fostered collaboration, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of business models, helping attendees refine their entrepreneurial strategies.
This event was just the beginning. With the right training, support, and financial resources, these young entrepreneurs have the potential to drive sustainable change in their communities.
Join Us in Making an Impact
This partnership marks the first step toward long-term, transformative change—but we can’t do it alone. You can join Bridging Gaps!
How You Can Get Involved:
Together, we can bridge the gap and pave the way for a brighter future in Madagascar. Let’s take the first step toward sustainable change!
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