SMILE Project: Supporting Young Migrants in Their Journey to the Labour Market

Migration is not only a journey between countries; it is also a journey of adaptation, learning, participation, and hope. For many young migrants in Europe, entering the labour market can be challenging due to language barriers, limited networks, lack of local work experience, and difficulties in accessing guidance and opportunities.

The SMILE project, “Support Young Migrants Integration in the Labour Market in Europe”, aims to respond to these challenges by supporting the employability and labour market integration of young migrants. Through training, mentoring, coaching, and cooperation with employers and partner organisations, the project helps young people strengthen the skills they need to participate more confidently in professional and social life.

At the heart of SMILE is the belief that every young person has potential. However, this potential can only become visible when young people are given the right support, inclusive learning environments, and real opportunities to develop themselves. For this reason, the project focuses on both soft skills and digital competences. Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, self-confidence, and digital literacy are essential not only for employment, but also for active participation in society.

SMILE also highlights the importance of mentorship and practical learning. Work placements and job shadowing opportunities allow young migrants to better understand workplace culture, explore different career paths, and build bridges with employers. These experiences can reduce the distance between young people and the labour market, while also helping organisations become more aware of diversity and inclusion.

As a partner in the SMILE project, SUSE contributes to a shared European effort to promote social inclusion, equal opportunities, and diversity in the workforce. The project brings together partners from Türkiye, Greece, Italy, Germany, and the Netherlands, creating an international platform for cooperation, capacity building, and knowledge sharing.

The integration of young migrants into the labour market is not only an economic issue. It is also a social responsibility. When young migrants are supported, communities become stronger, workplaces become more diverse, and Europe becomes more inclusive.

Through SMILE, we aim to support young people in building confidence, gaining skills, discovering opportunities, and becoming active contributors to their communities. A more inclusive labour market begins with recognising the value, talent, and potential of every young person.