Not too long ago, twin brothers Rivo and Rija didn’t dare to dream. Past abuse, poverty and deprivation had taught them to expect little and hope for even less. Then, the Salesians of Don Bosco entered the scene.

Finally, Rivo and Rija could imagine something different—a way to transform their lives and futures through education. Living in Madagascar, a country defined by profound poverty and lack of employment opportunities, their vision might have seemed naïve. But our Salesian missionaries who serve there have built a proven model of success based on decades of experience—offering vocational training opportunities to marginalized youth who otherwise can’t afford to attend or thrive in school.

That’s how Rivo and Rija found their way to the Notre Dame de Clairvaux Center in Ivato. At the technical training center there, students learn in-demand trades and prepare for professional qualifications in their chosen fields. Targeted apprenticeship programs ensure they graduate with the real-world experience that employers find invaluable.

Rivo enrolled in the school’s electrical course; Rija studied automotive mechanics. Father Erminio de Santis, who has worked at Notre Dame de Clairvaux for 20 years, reports that both young men graduated last year. Thanks to their commitment to education, their work ethic, and the school’s solid reputation in the local business community, these young men have indeed changed the trajectory of their lives.

“Rivo told me that his brother works as a mechanic, while he and all his classmates, who had an internship in a large electrical company, now work there on a regular contract,” Fr. Erminio says. “Rivo said that the company, which is looking for other workers, has already selected those coming from this year’s course.”

Today, thanks to the opportunity afforded by our Salesian missionaries, hundreds of young lives can dare to dream again, live as independent adults, and support their families and communities.

Learn more about our work in Madagascar.

Our mission prepares youth for future employment with vocational training for in-demand trades. What’s your mission?