Позитивные изменения. Том 3, № 4 (2023). Positive changes. Volume 3, Issue 4(2023)

INCLUSION AND SUPPORT FOR VULNERABLE POPULATION GROUPS

A core principle of social enterprises is the respect for and support of the underprivileged. These businesses oppose exploitation in all forms, ensuring fair wages that never fall below subsistence minimum, practicing inclusive employment, and actively hiring individuals with disabilities. For instance, Azima Dhanjee’s ConnectHear in Pakistan develops technologies for the hearing impaired and assists other companies in employing and collaborating with people with disabilities. Meanwhile, Tiemen Ter Hoeven’s Roetz employs individuals with mental challenges and those in difficult economic or social circumstances.

Global conflicts and economic crises influence migration patterns, posing unique challenges for social entrepreneurs working with refugees and migrants. Governments’ responses vary, with many policies exacerbating inequality and the plight of refugees. In contrast, social enterprises focus on addressing the security, health, education, and employment needs of these groups.

For example, Kakuma Ventures in Kenya’s Kakuma refugee camp offers digital access and services, connecting residents to the internet for online education (including higher education), job finding, and remote work. This connectivity facilitates quicker integration into local society, as described by camp co-founder Innocent Tshilombo. Such initiatives empower refugees, reducing their reliance on host country assistance.

In Germany, the StartSteps startup aids migrants in entering the tech industry. It offers career guidance, training assistance, and job placement. Mozamel Aman, co-founder and CEO of StartSteps, explains: “Our aim is to empower refugees to be self-reliant and financially independent, contributing to the society they live in, rather than solely relying on state aid. While not all governments recognize the importance of supporting refugees in this manner, we are committed to this exact way of addressing the global challenges of refugee and migrant integration.”

SUPPORTING LOCAL COMMUNITIES AND FOSTERING LOCAL MANUFACTURING

Social entrepreneurs are deeply committed to supporting ethnic minorities and others facing inequality in opportunities. By working at a grassroots level, they aim to comprehend the cultural context of each country and community, using their ventures as catalysts to address challenges faced by vulnerable populations. They help local residents find employment and foster community development.

For instance, the Durian Foundation in Nigeria aids rural inhabitants by demonstrating how to utilize local resources and waste, like bamboo. These villagers learn to craft alternatives to plastic using it and produce biogas from waste as a sustainable substitute for fossil fuels.

By working at a grassroots level, social entrepreneurs aim to comprehend the cultural context of each country and community, using their ventures as catalysts to address challenges faced by vulnerable populations.

“Preserving the identity and culture of local people is crucial,” observes Tony Joy, co-founder and executive director of the Durian Foundation.

“When you take pride in your roots and heritage, you’re more driven to make positive changes in your land, including conserving resources and protecting nature. I believe change starts locally and then expands globally. So, supporting and initiating change at the local level is essential.”

Social entrepreneurs also recognize that local community members best understand their context and challenges. Thus, initiatives in specific regions typically involve local partnerships, building an ecosystem that strengthens these communities. Local production is also environmentally beneficial as it conserves resources and reduces the need for transportation. An example is the 2050 Factory, addressing textile waste issues. It focuses on exclusively local production and plans to expand its network of factories across Europe.

TRANSITIONING TO A NEW OR IMPACT ECONOMY?

Social entrepreneurs are driving the creation of a new economy. Some advocate for an ‘impact economy,’ a topic that sparked debates among forum speakers who explored the differences between these economic types and the roles social entrepreneurs play in each.