Emancipating teenagers from socially vulnerable backgrounds
In Belgium, educational inequity is a big challenge. This is particularly the case in Brussels, where more than 20%* of young people do not complete their secondary education.
TADA is a learning network involving citizens, the civil society and businesses for the integration and emancipation of Brussels’ teenagers from socially vulnerable backgrounds. It offers three years of intensive coaching support, with a mix of scientific, societal, technical and creative courses, followed by long-term follow-up.
Véronique Taverne, Syensqo, volunteer at TADA
Every Saturday, more than 800 children aged 10-14 from socio-economically vulnerable neighborhoods in Brussels attend weekend classes organized by TADA. These classes offer a variety of workshops and courses that focus on practical skills, personal development, and exposure to different career paths.
By involving professionals from various fields, TADA aims to broaden the horizons of these young people, inspire them to pursue their dreams, and provide them with the tools and confidence they will need to succeed in life.
After three years attending weekend classes, TADA youngsters join an alumni network, which provides ongoing support and opportunities to help them become engaged citizens and contribute to society.
Empowering futures: our 3-year partnership for a TADA classroom
The Syensqo Fund is partnering with TADA to fund a weekend class comprising about 26 students
Each school year consists of 26 days on average, totaling 79 days over three years
Students will take part in 316 workshops where they will explore 27 different professions
9 excursions every year will allow students to experience the professional world
Participation of Syensqo employees from our headquarters in Brussels who volunteer for weekend classes
Addressing societal challenges
Improving social integration and professional opportunities for underprivileged youth by reducing inequality in education while raising awareness on inclusivity.
Through the support of the Syensqo Fund, a class of 26 students will gain exposure to 27 professional sectors over the next three years, with STEM playing a crucial role in their curriculum. The impact is clear: TADA students experience 26% less school delay and are three times less likely to drop out compared to their peers from similar backgrounds. This is why partnerships like the one with the Syensqo Fund are so important. Their support allows us to continue providing these opportunities, and we are especially thrilled to see Syensqo employees stepping in as guest teachers, sharing their passion for science with the next generation.
The experience was incredibly interesting, intense, and enriching—not just for the children, but for me as well. It inspired me to further engage with TADA. One comment that stood out to me was from a 10-year-old boy who, with sparkling eyes, told me: ‘After today, I’m going to dream about technology and science all night!’ If that’s true, I believe we’ve accomplished our first mission!
Toekomst Atelier De l'Avenir
Through weekend schools and an alumni network, TADA enables youngsters to get to know themselves and society better.
