The We Can Work program is a regional initiative dedicated to transforming the lives of over 1,000,000 young women and men with disabilities in Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, and Uganda. Through a holistic approach, the program strives to enable participants to access dignified and fulfilling work as entrepreneurs or waged employees while promoting systemic and societal change.
With the core belief that individuals with disabilities should lead change themselves, We Can Work empowers youth with disabilities as change agents in their communities. The program focuses on three main pillars:

1. Transition to Work and Empowerment: Participants, particularly young women, gain core life skills, technical training, mentoring, and coaching to prepare for meaningful employment or entrepreneurship. The program ensures they are engaged in developing solutions for economic inclusion.
2. Institutionalizing Disability Inclusion: Working with key system actors—companies, governments, civil society organizations, and educational institutions—We Can Work integrates disability inclusion into policies, practices, and environments to ensure sustainable change.
3. Advocacy for Inclusive Policies: Youth with disabilities actively participate in advocating for policies and programs that address their needs and promote inclusive economic development at both national and regional levels.
   Delivered through the We Can Work Academy, participants build leadership, entrepreneurship, and advocacy skills. They are supported through co-creation processes and the sensitization of caregivers and communities to challenge negative narratives and foster inclusive mindsets.
   A cornerstone of Mastercard Foundation’s Disability Strategy, We Can Work collaborates with Light for the World, African Disability Forum, national OPDs (Organizations of Persons with Disabilities), and entrepreneurship hubs. Together, these partners provide tools, knowledge, and technical expertise to drive long-lasting impact.
   The program exemplifies a commitment to inclusion, ensuring young women and men with disabilities lead meaningful lives and contribute to a more equitable society. With the motto, “Nothing about us without us,” We Can Work paves the way for sustainable and inclusive development.Photo Description: the post features three pictures, one of a young male participant in the We Can Work academy delivering a personal pitch, the second one shows participants in the academy training hall, while the third one shows a wall of learning during one of the We Can Work program trainings.