Project YQRIC is a project launched by CoSIR-Kenya to train 40 young (17-25 years of age) LGBTQ refugees and asylum seekers in Kenya. The objective of the project is to offer vital life skills to beneficiaries and to minimize vulnerability and promote self-reliance. The Innovation Center will be equipped with state-of-the-art leather and sandal making equipment to provide an opportunity for those trained with practical skills that can help them improve their lives.
Young LGBTIQ displaced persons are at times highly vulnerable to exploitation and violence by those who are meant to support and protect their dignity. There have been many instances of sexual assault, such as rape, all related to the economic vulnerability of the victims. Many of of these displaced queer refugees and asylum seekers have had limited access to formal education, lack skills are often left unprotected and idle.
The Innovation Center will be equipped with state-of-the-art leather and sandal making equipment to provide an opportunity for those trained with practical skills that can help them improve their lives. The LGBTI youth will be trained on how to make innovative jewelry, sturdy lanyards, elegant handbags, and sandals as well as how to find market for the finished product
Creative, holistic approaches that meet the various needs of young LGBTI refugees are needed. Programs that can teach both practical skills and numeracy, along with vocational training and life skills, such as HIV / AIDS prevention. Queer youth engagement is essential to any change in the community. This program will help the trained young queer refugees in Kenya build sustainable livelihoods and reduce economic vulnerability
This project has provided additional documentation in a DOCX file (projdoc.docx).
