Economic justice
We seek: Economic justice
We seek a world where nobody is excluded from the economy. A world that supports everyone to be resilient in adverse times. A world where women can earn an equal wage.
A fair economy
Unjust systems have concentrated power and wealth in the hands of a few, at the expense of billions of people. This systemic inequality keeps
people in poverty and denies them their rights to earn a decent living and live to their fullest potential.
Through our programs, campaigns and advocacy, we’re building fairer economic systems where people and planet come before profits.
people were supported in building fairer economic systems that put people and the planet before profits.
Real lives: Meet Micky in Vanuatu
“Joining the Ready for Work program was one of the best decisions I ever made. It empowered me with skills such as computer skills, communication skills, employability skills, leadership skills, and work experience.”
Micky felt disappointed in himself when he dropped out of school in Year 11, but he didn’t give up on his dream of finding a good job.
Micky, from Vanuatu, completed a one-year course in climate change and disaster risk reduction at a vocational training institute. He gained a sense of accomplishment, but he still found it hard to find work.
A few months later, Micky heard about a workshop on youth leadership at Melemaat Youth Centre, organised by the Marama Youth Foundation.
“I decided to attend the training and I was awarded a leadership certificate … I also learnt about the programs offered by V-Lab and Youth Challenge Vanuatu, two organisations that support young people to start their own businesses or find employment,” Micky said.
“I was impressed by their work and I filled out their application forms.”
Micky joined Ready for Work, which is run by Youth Challenge Vanuatu, one of Oxfam Australia’s local partner organisations.
“Joining the Ready for Work program was one of the best decisions I ever made. It empowered me with skills such as computer skills, communication skills, employability skills, leadership skills, and work experience. I did my internship at a local company, where I had the chance to apply what I learnt and to gain more practical knowledge,” Micky said.
“The internship placement also transformed me into a very confident individual. I can now communicate verbally with employers in higher positions and socialise with them. This is something I never thought I would one day do, and I am grateful for the opportunity. I believe the skills and experience I acquired will be a foundation for my success in the future.
“I am proud of myself and my achievements, and I hope to inspire other young people to follow their passion and goals.”
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Oxfam’s Together We Are Stronger project in Vanuatu aims to reduce the inequalities experienced by women, young people, LGBTQIA+ people and anyone living with a disability. The project works with local organisations to create safe spaces for people experiencing disadvantage and marginalisation to learn from one another and challenge harmful social norms.
OUR LOCAL PARTNERS
Youth Challenge Vanuatu. The Together We Are Stronger project is supported by the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP).
HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2023–2024
The project held five seminars on women’s empowerment and leadership for 178 people. The seminars helped people interested in running for elections to write their own campaign speeches, and were a platform for learning from others. Of those who participated, two women campaigned in provincial elections. The project also established the Malekula and SANMA Civil Society Influencing Network, with committee members comprising chiefs, youth, disability advocates, various women’s and church organisations, and entrepreneurs.