GAN Global and the Global Alliance for YOUth Celebrate World Social Justice Day

On February 20th, 2025, on World Social Justice Day, GAN Global, in collaboration with the Global Alliance for YOUth, GAN Guatemala, and GAN Argentina, hosted the webinar “Celebrando Empleabilidad para la Justicia Social: Impulsando el Éxito Empresarial y Juvenil a través de Aprendizajes en América Latina” (Celebrating Employability for Social Justice: Driving Business and Youth Success through Apprenticeships in Latin America). This event brought together key stakeholders from across Latin America to explore how quality apprenticeships and work-based learning can drive both business success and individual empowerment, reinforcing the link between employability and social justice.

This webinar marked the second in a series designed to promote the ILO’s Recommendation R208 on quality apprenticeships to the private sector. The partnership between GAN Global and the Global Alliance for YOUth aims to empower employers with the knowledge and tools needed to implement high-quality apprenticeship programs that not only build skilled workforces but also create more inclusive and equitable job markets. Kathryn Rowan, Executive Director of GAN Global, opened the session by emphasizing GAN’s commitment: “On World Social Justice Day, we reaffirm our belief that apprenticeships are more than just workforce solutions, they are pathways to social mobility, equity, and resilience.” She highlighted GAN Global’s role as part of the ILO’s Global Coalition for Social Justice, underlining the importance of the private sector’s engagement and leadership in this space.

One of the webinar’s core messages was that apprenticeships are not just about filling skill gaps, they are about creating pathways for underrepresented groups, fostering diversity, and addressing systemic inequalities. Gonzalo Graña from the Inter-American Centre for Knowledge Development in Vocational Training (ILO-CINTERFOR) emphasized the role of R208 in ensuring quality standards and the importance of dialogue between governments, employers, and workers:

“True social justice is achieved when apprenticeships go beyond the workplace, when they open doors to meaningful careers and economic mobility.”

Insights from Business Leaders

The webinar featured a dynamic panel moderated by Elisa Monteros, Director of GAN Guatemala, and included Luis Díaz (Senior HR Business Partner, Nestlé Guatemala), Nathalie Sanchez (HR P&B & TTH Colombia, dsm-firmenich), and Antonella Tassaroli (Director of Human Capital, Tassaroli S.A.). The discussion covered crucial themes:

Quality Apprenticeship as a Business Investment: Luis Díaz stressed the importance of structured, goal-oriented apprenticeship programs, noting that “companies must design clear plans and objectives to align youth training with their business needs. It’s a win-win for both  young talent and the company.”

Collaboration and Strategic Partnerships: Nathalie Sanchez shared how DSM-Firmenich co-created apprenticeship programs with local universities and industry partners: “Success lies in strategic alliance. With partnerships between companies, educational institutions, and government, we ensure that our programs meet both business and societal needs.”

Inclusion and Social Impact: Antonella Tassaroli offered a powerful perspective on how apprenticeships transform lives: “By partnering with schools and creating training programs rooted in real-world practice, we not only strengthen our industry but also uplift individuals and communities.” She highlighted the inspiring story of a former domestic worker who transitioned into a technical role through their training program, a true testament to the transformative power of apprenticeships.

Looking Ahead

GAN Global and the Global Alliance for YOUth remain committed to advancing quality apprenticeships in Latin America and beyond, advocating for stronger private-sector involvement and building ecosystems where youth thrive. The collaboration will continue to push forward strategies that link employability to inclusive economic and business growth to ensure a sustainable future.

“By addressing both economic and social challenges, apprenticeships can drive business growth while fostering greater equity and resilience within our communities.” – Kathryn Rowan, Executive Director, GAN Global

Watch the webinar: Celebrating World Social Justice Day: Successful Apprenticeships in Latin America