Dentsu agency Merkle has struck a deal with Salesforce training provider RefugeeForce to help refugees – especially those fleeing Ukraine – to learn new digital skills.
RefugeeForce has been part of Salesforce’s Talent Alliance, which provides free training to refugees who are building a new life in their adopted home, since 2018.
RefugeeForce educates refugees and helps them start their Salesforce career through personalised programs, with one-on-one mentorship, job coaching, and network expansion.
The foundation aims to change the perception of organisations and the public about the experience and skills that former refugees bring when building a new life in their adopted home.
Merkle is partnering with the organisation to contribute funding for over 60 highly educated refugees and to hire new talent. They will enable opportunities for refugees in Germany and the UK, with plans to extend this initiative throughout the EMEA region.
RefugeeForce co-founder Gaspar Rodriguez said: “In response to the recent crisis in Ukraine, it is now more important than ever to help refugees settle in their host countries while preparing pathways towards employment.
“As a global movement helping refugees get their lives back on track across the EU, we are committed to supporting all individuals who are forced to flee their homes.
“Latest UN estimates show that nearly 2.5 million refugees have left Ukraine, of which more than 100,000 have settled in nearby Germany. To support in the best and most efficient way, we aim to scale up our training programme in Germany, UK and the Netherlands to support hundreds of additional participants.
“We have created the Safe Futures Fund to provide stability and employment over the long term. Help us create Safe Futures for those who need it.”
Merkle EMEA practice lead for data and martech Ben Gott added: “We have tools at our disposal to help those most in need. Understanding how can be difficult though, until you find a team like RefugeeForce. I look forward to a long and productive partnership and taking another small step towards diversity in my team and serving the society we live in. All credit to Gaspar and the Refugee Force team.”
Earlier this month, Dentsu joined the exodus of marketing services companies and global brands from Russia in protest at the invasion of Ukraine, with plans to transfer ownership of its joint venture to its long-term local partner. Dentsu Russia had been in business for 25 years and has more than 1,500 staff.
Related stories
UK industry joins marketing job scheme for Ukrainians
Omnicom pulls Russian shops as agency exodus grows
Dentsu axes Russia; Omnicom ‘still assessing’ situation
Publicis exits Russia and condemns Ukraine invasion
Brands urged to unite to show solidarity with Ukraine
‘Horrific events’ force top brands to pull plug on Russia
