Yosef’s Journey After Care

For many young people who grow up in alternative care, the transition to independent adulthood is often marked by significant challenges. While most report positive experiences within the care system, SOS Children’s Villages in Ethiopia’s Situational Analysis and Policy Gap Assessment reveals a difficult reality once they leave care. 

Care leavers often face barriers including limited access to education and job opportunities, lack of life skills, and community integration. Without the necessary support structures in place, many struggle to navigate adulthood and achieve economic independence. 

Yosef’s story 

Yosef, now 25, grew up in alternative care and was always a determined student. From a young age, he was self-motivated and excelled academically, earning high grades throughout his school years. His passion for learning led him to pursue not one, but two bachelor’s degrees in business management and water engineering. 

Like many young graduates, Yosef was filled with ambition and ready to build a promising career. But after completing his studies, the reality was that despite his strong academic background, he could not find a job. 

The disappointment was overwhelming. Yosef’s experience reflects a broader issue many care leavers face even when equipped with qualifications; they often lack professional networks, job readiness skills, or mentorship.  

The turning point 

During this uncertain period, Yosef was introduced to SOS Children’s Villages in Ethiopia’s Leave No Youth Behind project, an initiative designed to empower care leavers through skills development, training, and job placement support. 

Through the project, Yosef took part in problem management training, where he built both professional and interpersonal skills, something not often emphasized in traditional education. The training helped him recognize the importance of soft skills in the workplace and gave him a renewed sense of confidence. 

Following the training, Yosef secured a three-month internship at the SOS Children’s Villages in Ethiopia Addis Ababa Programme Location. There, he applied his skills in a real-world setting, contributed meaningfully to the team, and regained his sense of purpose. 

A path forward 

The internship marked a turning point. Just one month after completing it, Yosef landed a role as a Marketing Officer, a position different from his academic focus but aligned with his interests. Within months, he moved up to become an Income Generating Activity Coordinator at a non-profit organization. 

His dedication and strong work ethic did not go unnoticed. Today, Yosef holds a leadership position as Head of Research, Community Service, and Incubation in the same organization. A testament to his resilience and the power of targeted support. 

“I had moments where I doubted myself, but the opportunity to intern and be trained was the breakthrough I needed. It was more than just a job; it gave me back my confidence and purpose.” 
— Yosef 

Building a stronger future for care leavers 

Yosef’s story is just one among many. Through the Leave No Youth Behind project, SOS Children’s Villages in Ethiopia has reached 356 care leavers with impactful initiatives.  

In parallel, SOS Children’s Villages in Ethiopia continues to advocate for policy changes that recognize and protect the rights of care leavers within national, legal and regulatory frameworks. Structured support, combined with personal resilience, can help transform lives, turning uncertainty into stability and potential into lasting impact. 

*To respect the person's privacy, their real name has not been used.