Senegal Mission: A Collective and Visible Commitment to Youth

Senegal mission - a collective and visible commitment to youth

From July 20 to 23, an Air France Foundation delegation traveled to Senegal for a charitable mission marked by meaningful encounters and warm exchanges. The objective was to strengthen ties with local partners, assess the impact of the Foundation’s initiatives, and highlight the outstanding collective generosity of Air France employees during last January’s major donation drive.

A hands-on commitment beyond borders, driven by employees

More than just a source of funding, the Air France Foundation is committed to building long-lasting partnerships and gaining a deeper understanding of local realities. With this ambition in mind, a delegation traveled to Dakar and then to Saly to meet the people who work every day to make these projects a reality.

This mission provided an opportunity to reaffirm the Foundation’s vision: creating educational, training, and social integration opportunities for vulnerable children and young people. It also highlighted the deep commitment and generosity of Air France employees and partners.

The Foundation is proud to be able to count on the extraordinary collective support of company employees, exemplified by the major donation drive organized last January. The collected items were transported and distributed to local partner organizations, making a tangible difference on the ground. Building on this collective momentum, the delegation was able to witness the impact of these efforts firsthand.

Giving greater visibility to local organizations and celebrating collective engagement

During a press event held at Samusocial Senegal in the presence of the 11 other beneficiary organizations, the delegation presented the Foundation’s initiatives and emphasized the essential role played by Air France employees.

With nearly 9 tonnes of collected donated items, this commitment is helping improve the daily lives of thousands of children in Senegal.

Alongside the Foundation, the Air France-KLM teams in Dakar played a key role, providing the logistical, operational, and human support necessary to make this chain of solidarity possible, from transporting donations to distributing them among partner organizations.

An exhibition showcasing all the beneficiary organizations, combined with opportunities for discussion and exchange, helped raise public awareness in Senegal of the importance of supporting young people.

Thomas Pesquet, a committed Board members who attended the event, emphasized:

 “This event provided a valuable platform to explain our commitment and highlight the remarkable work carried out by our partner organizations, while also showcasing the solidarity demonstrated by Air France employees and partners through the major donation drive.”

Partner organizations - drivers of change

Throughout the mission, the delegation focused more closely on the work of three partner organizations, key actors embodying hope and opportunity.

The first stage involved an emotional visit to Empire des Enfants in Dakar, a refuge for children living on the streets. Beyond the facilities, it was the young people's resilience and energy that made the greatest impact. Through painting workshops and meaningful moments of exchange and connection, the delegation witnessed the organization’s holistic approach to providing structure, education, and pathways toward reintegration.

In Saly, the delegation experienced another intense visit at Vivre Ensemble, a childcare center that welcomes vulnerable infants and young children, providing them with a safe and nurturing environment. Warmly welcomed by the staff, the delegation saw firsthand the dedication of the teams and shared precious moments with the children and their caregivers.

"Every child here is a promise. The Foundation’s support helps us keep that promise, day after day," said Laura Galorin, Communications and Partnerships Manager at Vivre Ensemble.

A beneficiary’s experience - an inspiring journey

One of the most memorable moments of the mission was meeting a beneficiary whose life has been transformed through the Foundation’s support.

Aziz Diouf, one of the longest-standing beneficiaries of Empire des Enfants, shared his story. His journey, from living on the streets to receiving vocational training at the Grands Moulins de Dakar, is living proof of the impact of reintegration programs.

"The organization gave me a home, guidance, and support from the very beginning. Today, thanks to the training I received and the trust, encouragement and belief placed in me by the teams at Grands Moulins de Dakar, I am proud to build my own future and inspire other young people," he explained with pride.

A shared vision - building the future together

The leaders of the partner organizations expressed their gratitude and underlined the importance of having a partner such as the Air France Foundation.

"Their regular presence, attentive listening, and long-term commitment are invaluable assets. It is not only financial support, but also recognition of our work and a boost to our credibility," said Béatrice Mendy of Samusocial Senegal.

This partnership goes beyond material support. It is built on a shared vision -creating a brighter future for Senegalese youth.

A future filled with hope

This mission to Senegal reinforced the Air France Foundation’s conviction that meaningful action and human connection are at the heart of its impact. The smiles of children, the determination of young people in training, and the commitment of association teams all provide strong motivation to continue and expand its work.

The mission also celebrated the solidarity of Air France employees and partners, demonstrating how collective generosity can be transformed into real opportunities on the ground. The delegation returned inspired, enriched by valuable lessons and renewed energy to help thousands of young people pursue their dreams and build brighter futures.