Last year, the Schneider Electric Foundation celebrated more than quarter of a century of driving social impact. Since the Foundation’s inception in 1999, education has always been a priority, recognising that empowering youth is essential for a sustainable future.
A key achievement in this journey has been the training of more than 928,000 young people since 2009 through initiatives such as the Youth Education and Entrepreneurship Energy Technical Training and Future Skills Development programs. These programs equip individuals in disadvantaged communities with essential skills for employment or entrepreneurship in the energy sector, empowering them to thrive in a changing economy.
It is well known that youth unemployment continues to be a significant global challenge with the International Labour Organization noting that as of 2024, about 65 million young people were still unemployed.
The Foundation’s commitment to education and training is therefore to ensure that no one is left behind as the world moves towards a sustainable economy. By focusing on inclusivity and equipping young people with the tools they need to succeed, the Foundation is helping to build a brighter future.
A vision for greater impact
At the occasion of the 25th anniversary, the Foundation is also placing a renewed emphasis on youth-led innovation. Through a global call for contributions, we are for example partnering with Ashoka’s Changemaker Companies program to identify and support 25 innovative projects led by young changemakers across five continents.
Furthermore, 6 years after the first season, the Tomorrow Rising series comes back with a second season, featuring five new characters in five different countries: Azael from Mexico, Christine from Egypt, Farha from France, Roswita from Indonesia and Shirley from Peru.
Join us as we discover their inspiring stories, and witness the commitment and initiatives undertaken by the Schneider Electric Foundation to empower the younger generation.
Partnerships – the force driving sustainable change
Helen Keller once said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” This rings true for the Foundation’s enduring partnerships with NGOs, institutions, and community leaders.
Our partners form the very fabric of the Foundation’s work, allowing us to transcend continents and borders to develop solutions for pressing social and environmental challenges. To each and every one of our global partners, thank you for your continued support, collaboration, and commitment.
It is a collective effort that sees the sum of its parts deliver true and impactful change.
Change through local presence and VolunteerIn
At the heart of the Foundation’s success is our network of delegates—over 80 employees across 100 countries—who act as local representatives and champions of change. Their presence ensures that Schneider Electric’s initiatives resonate with community needs, creating lasting connections and sustainable results.
Complementing the above is our VolunteerIn program, a cornerstone of the Foundation’s mission. With a goal of achieving 50,000 volunteering days by 2025, the program empowers employees to dedicate their time and skills to support local communities.
Indeed, by 2024, over 75,000 volunteering days have been recorded with the great enthusiasm of more than 31,000 employees since 2018, empowering NGOs and communities and underscoring the unwavering commitment of Schneider Electric’s volunteers, who have become a driving force behind the Foundation’s initiatives.
Mentorship also forms part of our VolunteerIn program. Together with our global education NGO partners, students are mentored by Schneider Electric employees, including key leadership team members.
Furthermore, global initiatives like GivingTuesday highlight the Foundation’s collaborative spirit, encouraging employees worldwide to dedicate time and resources to charitable causes.
Our vision is clear, together with our valuable global partners we will create a sustainable, inclusive future, driven by collective effort and unwavering dedication. By empowering local communities, fostering partnerships, and prioritising education and youth empowerment, the Foundation is shaping a world where no one is left behind.
About the author
Patricia Benchenna, Philanthropy & Schneider Electric Foundation Director
Patricia Benchenna has dedicated her career to advancing corporate social responsibility and sustainable development. She has been with Schneider Electric for over 30 years, where she has held various roles, including Communication director.
In her current role as Philanthropy director, she leads Schneider Electric’s strategic philanthropy efforts, as part of the company’s global corporate citizenship team. Patricia also leads Schneider Electric Foundation, whose main mission is the education and training of young people.
Since 2020, Patricia sits on the Global Board of Directors of Schneider Electric India Foundation and since 2021 she is a member of ‘Alliance for skills sponsorship’ an association promoting skills sponsorship in the service of the CSR commitment of companies.
Patricia’s leadership and vision have been instrumental in shaping Schneider Electric Foundation approach to corporate philanthropy, sustainability and volunteering.
Add a comment