Today, on World Youth Skills Day, we join organisations around the globe to shine a spotlight on the importance of equipping young people with the skills they need to succeed in work, in life, and in shaping the future.
Believing in young people holds the key to solving some of the biggest challenges and unlocking new opportunities. By investing in youth skills, we’re not just investing in individuals, we’re investing in stronger communities.
But the need for action is urgent. Globally, about 450 million youths (7 out of 10) are economically disengaged, lacking the skills needed to succeed in the labour market alone. In 2022, over 40% of young people were not in employment, education or training. These figures highlight the critical importance of creating accessible, high-quality learning pathways.
Partnering with CITB to Build Futures
At artisan, we’re proud to have worked closely with the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), an organisation dedicated to supporting the construction industry by attracting, training, and retaining talent. CITB’s apprenticeship programmes, training courses and qualifications provide young people with hands-on experience, mentoring, and pathways to meaningful careers in construction.
We have supported this mission through powerful, story-driven video content, which brings apprenticeship journeys to life in a way words alone cannot. Our videos showcase the real people, real challenges, and real successes behind each story, highlighting the transformation that happens when young people are given opportunities to learn and grow.
These films hope to inspire, whether it’s a young apprentice explaining how they overcame self-doubt, or a mentor sharing the pride of watching their trainees succeed. Each video helps break down misconceptions about careers in construction and celebrates the human side of the industry. By creating authentic, compelling visual stories, we’ve helped CITB encourage more young people to consider apprenticeships and demonstrate the impact of investing in youth skills.
Take Molli, for example, an apprentice we filmed for a recent campaign. Molli joined the apprenticeship programme after deciding to change direction in her career and explore new opportunities. Today, she’s working with large plant machinery and has developed not only technical skills but also a newfound sense of confidence and purpose. Molli’s story is just one of many that show the transformative power of skills development.
Why Youth Skills Matter Now More Than Ever
Industries are evolving rapidly, with a growing demand for adaptable, tech-savvy workers who can drive innovation and growth. As digital tools, AI, and automation change how we work across sectors, from manufacturing to marketing, the need for future-ready skills has never been more critical.
Yet, 86% of students do not feel adequately prepared for an AI-enabled workplace, suggesting that a significant number of young people may feel unequipped to enter roles that increasingly rely on digital skills. Additionally, 90% of adolescent girls and young women in low-income countries remain offline. Meaning they’re missing out on crucial digital learning opportunities. This stark digital divide not only limits individual career prospects but also reduces the diversity of ideas and talent that industries need to innovate and grow.
Our Commitment to Youth Empowerment
At artisan, we believe that our role often goes beyond marketing. It’s important to utilise our existing platform and creative expertise to drive meaningful, positive change. We have a unique opportunity to shape perceptions and amplify important messages by shining a spotlight on young apprentices sharing their real stories and experiences.
We see it as joint responsibility to help inspire the next generation and to recognise the value of hands-on learning, while exploring opportunities they might never have considered. By using our creative skills to elevate these voices, we hope to encourage businesses and communities to invest in youth skills. Subsequently, opening more doors for young people. Remember, every effort counts!
Happy World Youth Skills Day from all of us at artisan 🥳
