Promoting Quality Apprenticeships with the Global Alliance for YOUth

GAN Global partnered with the Global Alliance for YOUth to showcase the value of apprenticeships for employers and young people. The work combined storytelling, advocacy, and peer learning, linking real-world practice to quality principles and the growing business case.

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average return for employers in the US
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higher retention
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weekly gain per apprentice
Featured image for Promoting Quality Apprenticeships with the Global Alliance for YOUth
Timeline
2024–2026
Countries involved
Flag of Argentina
Argentina
Flag of Guatemala
Guatemala
Flag of USA
USA
Flag of Switzerland
Switzerland
Partners & funders
Global Alliance for YOUth
Funder
The challenge

Employers often support skills development, yet the value of structured apprenticeships can be hard to communicate across sectors and countries. There was also a need to connect employer action to shared quality standards, so good practice can travel.

What we did

We ran a social media campaign and convened a series of webinars featuring apprentices, trainers, and business leaders. Stories came from employers including The Adecco Group, UBS, Nestlé, Bühler, Accenture, Microsoft, Lipton, L’Oréal, dsm-firmenich, and GAN Guatemala; each example highlighted how work-based learning builds future-ready skills in real roles.

Outcomes

The campaign strengthened employer advocacy for quality apprenticeships and built momentum around implementation of ILO Recommendation R208. It also laid groundwork for the next phase, focused on developing clearer ROI evidence and decision tools for employers.

Gallery
Evidence & Outputs
Webinar Recording
Swiss apprenticeship models adapted for the US and beyond
Guides
Quality Apprenticeships Implementation and Return on Investment Guides
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Our unwavering focus remains on developing high-quality apprenticeship programs that connect apprentices to the dignity of work.

Nicholas Morgan
Nicholas Morgan
ACS President and GAN Global Board Member
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We find ourselves at a pivotal moment in global history, where the key to unlocking opportunities lies in a concerted effort to expand workforce participation and skills through approaches that offer a win-win for both businesses and workers.

Nicholas Morgan
Nicholas Morgan
ACS President and GAN Global Board Member
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During my apprenticeship, I learned a lot, gained real hands-on experience, and built a solid foundation for my professional journey.

Elisa
Banking Apprentice, UBS, Switzerland
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It’s not just about learning the ins and outs of an incredible business but also about connecting with fantastic people, leaders, and teams. This experience has truly impacted my professional journey.

Javier
Javier
Consumer Marketing Apprentice, Nestlé, Ecuador
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Doing an apprenticeship at Nestlé means growing not only professionally but also personally. It is about learning to set goals, chart a path for growth, and turn dreams into reality.

Dayana
Dayana
Human Resources Apprentice, Nestlé, Mexico
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Being immersed in different working areas during my apprenticeship has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of how industries operate and how Microsoft is working with customers to transform their businesses.

Kate Murphy
Kate Murphy
Business Program Manager (former apprentice), Microsoft, United Kingdom
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I chose to do an apprenticeship as it offers a more hands-on approach to learning, allowing me to gain practical experience in the technical field while also earning a wage.

Israa Ibrahim
Israa Ibrahim
Software Developer Apprentice, Microsoft, United Kingdom
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Nestlé’s brand, to me, means home. I have learned so much from communicating my ideas and having them accepted and considered for application in processes is the most enriching experience I have gained.

Mariana
Mariana
Production Apprentice, Nestlé, Guatemala
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As an electrical mechanical engineering student, Nestlé gives me the opportunity to grow professionally and entrepreneurially.

Jose
Jose
Engineering Apprentice, Nestlé, Guatemala
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As a recruiter who was part of the apprenticeship program, I have a larger and more extensive network because I’ve helped people throughout the hiring process. This opportunity really changed my life. I gained knowledge and experience, and now I am in a career that I enjoy.

Lalani Rentie
Lalani Rentie
Senior Recruiting Analyst and Accenture Apprenticeship Program Graduate, Accenture, USA ​
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We know that apprentices are successful – we’ve hired an overwhelming majority of individuals who completed the program into ongoing roles at Accenture, and program graduates have high retention as they stay to grow their careers.

Pallavi Verma
Pallavi Verma
Senior Managing Director and Accenture North America Apprenticeship Program Executive Sponsor, USA ​
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The program opened a door for me at a time when I really needed it. It provided me with an excellent career opportunity, along with all the tools that anyone needs to be successful at work.

Ahmad Aladawi
Ahmad Aladawi
Security Delivery Specialist and Apprenticeship Program Graduate, Accenture, USA ​
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Joining as a work-study student allowed me to pursue my studies as well as take on an apprenticeship. I have seized opportunities to take on new roles, contributed to the growth of the agency and furthered my leadership journey.

Clement Girard
Clement Girard
Principal Recruitment Consultant, Finance & Accounting/Banking & Insurance, Adecco, France
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I engaged in two years of intensive work-study, encompassing diverse roles that lasted six months each. I have honed my leadership skills and contributed to the operational excellence of my workplace.

Alexia Carcenac de Torne
Alexia Carcenac de Torne
Sales Performance Manager, IDF, Adecco, France​
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The moment I stumbled upon the Adecco IESEG School of Management work-study program, I knew it was exactly what I needed, prompting me to switch schools to seize this opportunity wholeheartedly. I have continued to thrive in various roles ever since.

Mathieu Kanzler
Mathieu Kanzler
Area Manager, IDF BTP, Adecco, France​
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Apprenticeship programs provide a clear pathway to higher-level employment and can lead to stable and well-paying careers. I have the opportunity to learn directly from experienced professionals in their field.

Katie
Katie
Business Apprentice, Bühler, USA
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The combination of extensive years of proven practical experience and training programs that focus on future-oriented technologies equips apprentices with the skills to navigate and seamlessly integrate into the diverse and challenging contemporary work environment.

Denis Forster
Denis Forster
Leader, Vocational Training Information Technologies, Bühler, Switzerland
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As an apprentice, I can grow both professionally and personally. It’s amazing to dive into the cosmetics industry in such an international environment and to be able to contribute autonomously to impactful projects.

Jeanne Quartier
Jeanne Quartier
HR Apprentice, L'Oréal, France
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During my apprenticeship, working with people who have a lot of experience in project supply chains that have a global impact is an excellent on-the-go learning experience which is hard to come by.

Jaathaveda​ MV
Jaathaveda​ MV
Supply Chain Apprentice, L'Oréal, France
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Doing an apprenticeship is like attending two different schools. You are consistently learning by blending theory with practical experience in the field. It is the best approach to developing your soft skills and preparing yourself for corporate life.

Othman Fahim
Othman Fahim
Marketing Apprentice, L'Oréal, France
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My apprenticeship in various business units allowed collaboration with colleagues with strong expertise who were fully committed to sharing their knowledge and coaching me, adding value to my professional experience.

Shannon
Shannon
Commercial Apprentice, dsm-firmenich, Switzerland
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My apprenticeship gave me the opportunity to learn from a mentor who introduced me to a wide range of subjects, with passion and vision, inspiring me to start my career as an HR professional.

Arthur
Arthur
HR Professional, dsm-firmenich, France
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Apprenticeship is a relationship, based on trust, communication and sharing. I give responsibilities with guidance and autonomy, allowing apprentices to learn and grow quickly, and possibly acquire a position within my team after completion. I am so proud to have allowed future talent to blossom in the world of human resources.

Cédric
Cédric
Global Senior HR Director, Fine Fragrance, dsm-firmenich
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We work in close partnership with local networks of training companies and professional associations to ensure quality and practical training delivery, adapted to company needs, while guaranteeing successful apprenticeship completion – paving the way for an immediate career.

Heloïse
Heloïse
Laboratory Technician Apprentices Trainer, dsm-firmenich, Switzerland​
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Being an apprentice at L’Oréal means evolving daily in a challenging and highly enriching environment, surrounded by experts in their field. It is a great source of inspiration and a valuable means of learning something new every day!

Victor Evain
Victor Evain
Project Development Apprentice, L'Oréal, France
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Welcoming an apprentice to the team is the best way to benefit from a fresh and modern vision. The apprentice can put directly into practice the theoretical approach they can learn in training courses.

François
François
Key Account Supply Chain Manager, L'Oréal, France
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During my apprenticeship, I learned a lot, gained real hands-on experience, and built a solid foundation for my professional journey.

Elisa Grass
Elisa Grass
Banking Apprentice, UBS, Switzerland
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Communicating with clients and taking part in meetings taught me to be brave and mature. I highly encourage every young talent to choose an apprenticeship for valuable experiences and great memories. This journey helps you discover yourself and uncover your hidden talents.

Valerie Zukanovic
Valerie Zukanovic
Banking Apprentice, UBS, Switzerland
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As a banking apprentice, I chose to pursue this opportunity to acquire practical skills and gain hands-on experience in my chosen field. Additionally, I recognized that a bank provides an excellent training ground for apprentices due to its structured learning environment, exposure to the financial industry, and opportunities for professional growth.

Marina Castelberg
Marina Castelberg
Banking Apprentice, UBS, Switzerland
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Compared to school, an apprenticeship provides me with immediate skill development, growth opportunities and industry-specific knowledge.

Albin Smrqaku
Albin Smrqaku
IT Apprentice, UBS, Switzerland
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I have witnessed firsthand, the transformative power these programs hold for both individuals and organizations. It’s more than just skills training and it’s about investing in the future and building a stronger, more resilient workforce. I consider such programs as societal win, building a brighter future for all.

Hassan Mumtaz
Hassan Mumtaz
ER/IR & Apprenticeship Training Manager, Lipton Teas and Infusions, Pakistan
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Lipton Pakistan Limited provided a supportive and nurturing environment that helped me to grow in my role. My coach provided me guidance & support based on his own experiences. Lipton team helped me with a solid start and valuable lessons that I can carry forward in my professional journey.

Ayesha Munir
Ayesha Munir
Data Analyst Apprentice, Lipton Teas and Infusions, Pakistan
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Apprenticeships are essential to shaping the future of work. The rise of AI-driven data center roles in automation, energy optimization, and predictive maintenance, for instance, presents a unique chance to expand U.S. apprenticeship programs. By aligning workforce policies with these emerging demands, we can open pathways into high-growth careers while bolstering America’s competitiveness in advanced technology infrastructure.

Dr. Mardy Leathers
Dr. Mardy Leathers
Vice President, Adaptive Construction Solutions
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Having been an apprentice myself at L’Oréal, I not only give back by welcoming apprentices to my team but also continue to grow thanks to the diversity of people I mentor.

Lucie
Lucie
Digital and Data Project Manager, L’Oréal, France
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My experiences during my commercial apprenticeship have been incredibly inspiring and make me proud to be able to complete an apprenticeship at Bühler.

Fabienne Bischofberger
Fabienne Bischofberger
Commercial Apprentice, Bühler, Switzerland