Globally, 282 million young people are not in education, training or employment. Young women are almost 1.5 times more likely to be unemployed than young men; and at least 667 million people were expected to be in extreme poverty by 2022.

Unequal access and control over economic resources lie at the root of womens' poverty; and yet, gender equality is critical to economic growth. If it could be achieved, the global annual GDP could increase by as much as USD12 trillion by 2025.

Everyone should have access to training and employment opportunities to realise their full potential and gain financial independence. Through Futuremakers by Standard Chartered, we aim to empower young people with the skills and opportunities to learn, earn and grow.