The Big Heart Foundation Awards Conexio Africa the Sharjah International Award for Refugee Advocacy and Support
In a move that reinforces global humanitarian efforts, the Big Heart Foundation announced that it has awarded the Sharjah International Award for Refugee Advocacy and Support for 2025 to Conexio Africa. This award recognizes the organization’s prominent role in developing human experiences based on education for employment purposes, which helps refugees overcome poverty in East Africa, particularly in Kenya, Malawi, and Uganda. Conexio Africa focuses on transforming digital skills into sustainable job opportunities, making it a pioneering model in the field.
Conexio Africa’s Efforts in Empowering Refugees
On the eve of the award announcement, Conexio Africa was selected with great confidence from among 790 nominations worldwide. The organization’s sustainable approach stands out as a key element in its success in empowering refugees. It bridges the gap between education and income generation by providing advanced hands-on training in digital skills. These initiatives have led to an employment rate of 90% among beneficiaries and improved their monthly income to around $200, up from very low levels.
A Global Model for Digital Empowerment
Since its establishment in 2019, Conexio Africa has created a model that distinguishes it from other organizations, focusing on transforming digital education into an empowering tool. More than 1,000 refugees have been trained in countries such as Kenya, Malawi, and Uganda, resulting in tangible outcomes through the development of effective technological solutions that serve humanity. Women represent 66% of the total beneficiaries, reflecting the organization’s commitment to empowering women and increasing their leadership roles.
Innovative Programs That Enhance Employment Opportunities
Conexio Africa offers a comprehensive range of programs that help refugees build their career paths. Through partnerships with local organizations and global companies, beneficiaries have the opportunity to receive training in essential technical skills and connect with global job platforms like Upwork. This approach is effective in opening up avenues for international freelance work and enhancing financial independence.
Investment for the Future
Aliyah Al-Musaibi, Director of the Big Heart Foundation, emphasizes that “the Sharjah International Award for Refugee Advocacy and Support aims to support initiatives that create real change in the lives of refugees.” The outstanding performance of Conexio Africa makes it a model to follow, prioritizing the dignity of individuals and promoting self-reliance. As part of this, the winner will receive 500,000 AED ($136,000) to expand its activities and impact in needy communities.
The recognition of Conexio Africa is a culmination of ongoing efforts that reaffirm its global success. The award also embodies the commitment of all humanitarian actors to create a better future for refugees, where economic integration is achieved through the development of digital skills and the utilization of human capabilities across diverse fields of work.