MARKET INCLUSIVE LIVELIHOOD PATHWAYS TO SELF-RELIANCE (SMILES)

MARKET INCLUSIVE LIVELIHOOD PATHWAYS TO SELF-RELIANCE (SMILES) is a project under BetterLife International Organization that aims to empower both refugee and host communities by creating opportunities for sustainable livelihoods. Through this initiative, we promote social cohesion by helping these communities build relationships while offering practical skills training in diverse fields such as poultry farming, barbering, carpentry, and more. SMILES also focuses on empowering youth, equipping them with essential skills that foster self-reliance and economic independence.

  • Empowering Refugee and Host Communities: We work to bridge gaps between refugee and host communities, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration through shared economic activities.

  • Skills Training in Livelihood Alternatives: The SMILES project offers hands-on training in various livelihood options including poultry farming, barbering, carpentry, tailoring, and other trades that promote self-reliance.

  • Youth Empowerment Focus: We specifically target young people, providing them with the skills necessary to become economically independent, create jobs, and drive change within their communities.

  • Promoting Self-Reliance: By teaching practical, in-demand skills, we help individuals and families build their livelihoods, reducing reliance on external aid and promoting long-term sustainability.

  • Community Building through Market Inclusion: We aim to create market pathways that allow refugees and host communities to work together, developing joint business ventures and participating in the local economy.

  • Holistic Support for Livelihood Development: In addition to skills training, we provide mentorship, business development support, and access to markets, ensuring that trained individuals can successfully implement their skills.

  • Focus on Youth-Led Innovation: The project encourages youth to explore innovative business ideas and entrepreneurial ventures, offering them the resources and support needed to bring these ideas to life.

  • Sustainable Livelihood Solutions: By providing eco-friendly and market-driven training, SMILES aims to create sustainable income-generating activities that will thrive in both rural and urban settings.

  • Targeting Vulnerable Populations: We prioritize refugees, women, and youth, offering them tools and opportunities to rise out of poverty and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Our Work

"Thanks to the SMILES project, I’ve been able to transform my life. As a young refugee, I struggled to find stable work, but the skills I gained in poultry farming have opened up new opportunities for me. Not only have I started my own small business, but I’ve also built strong relationships with the host community. SMILES didn’t just provide me with training—it gave me the confidence and tools to become self-reliant and support my family. I’m now more hopeful about my future and the future of my community." Kyewalyanga Proscovia a refugee from DRCongo

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Our Impact

  • Empowered over 500 refugees and host community members with essential skills in various livelihood sectors such as poultry farming, barbering, and carpentry.

  • Strengthened social cohesion between refugee and host communities, fostering greater collaboration and peaceful coexistence through shared economic initiatives.

  • Youth empowerment: More than 120 young people have gained practical skills, allowing them to start their own businesses or secure jobs, leading to greater economic independence.

  • Increased self-reliance: Many participants have successfully established small businesses, generating income that reduces dependency on aid and enhances financial stability.

  • Created market opportunities: By connecting trained individuals with local markets, we’ve facilitated sustainable business ventures that contribute to the local economy and enhance community development.

The SMILES project has empowered over 500 refugees and host community members with essential skills in various trades, fostering social cohesion and reducing dependency on aid. By focusing on youth empowerment, over 120 young people have gained practical skills, enabling them to start businesses or secure employment. Participants have established sustainable livelihoods through market-driven ventures, improving their financial stability and living conditions. The project has also facilitated youth-led innovations and provided new opportunities for vulnerable groups, contributing to long-term community development and economic resilience.

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