The story of Give A Chance!
Give A Future! begins with a bold dream by Yannick Zionel, the current president of the organization. As an eleven-year-old boy, he already had big visions for his future. But the first piece of advice he received in his life had a lasting impact on him: his grandfather said to him: "Write down your goals and wishes, because that is the first step towards implementation, planning and realization." These words stayed with Yannick for the rest of his life and formed the basis for everything he would later achieve. Yannick took this advice to heart and wrote seven big goals on a piece of paper that he wanted to achieve one day. But when his teacher saw this piece of paper, she tore it up with the discouraging words: "Yannick, you can't do this. Don't dream too much. You're just too bad." Disappointed, Yannick went home. But his mother explained to him that this teacher had not understood a crucial principle of life: "Never underestimate a person's potential, because it only becomes apparent when you take action." These words stuck in Yannick's mind, and despite the setbacks and resistance, he kept fighting. Year after year, he achieved every single goal on his torn-up wish list.
A Life for the Vision of Education
One of the visions on this wish list was to offer disadvantaged children in Africa the chance of an education and a better future. Yannick wanted to enable these children to realize their dreams, despite all the obstacles. This vision became a mission, and so Give A Chance! Give A Future! was born in 2010. Through tireless effort and with limited financial means, Yannick founded the organization in Basel to generate enthusiasm for his vision. But it was not just the vision that drove him - it was also the concrete experience and the encounter with the people on the ground in Africa that sparked his passion.
The start of a success story
Back in Europe, Yannick began to realize the vision of Give A Chance! with only a laptop and a group of dedicated helpers. Despite financial constraints, they tried to convince Switzerland of the importance of this project with creative ideas and a lot of passion. A year later, the promise was fulfilled: Yannick and his team stood in front of a group of children in Mbengue who could hardly believe that their school building was actually being renovated. With school materials and a clear vision, they set to work to rebuild the school. This moment was a moving experience not only for the team, but also for the children - it was the first step towards a better future. Growth and success What began as a small student organization that attracted attention in Basel with street dance actions has now developed into an impressive success story. Give A Chance! has so far directly supported over 10,000 people, and the number of beneficiaries is constantly growing. Three public schools were built and successfully operated in Cameroon: •Edea Mbengue •Kribi Bwambé •Kribi New Town In addition, scholarships and grants for international universities were awarded, giving young people the opportunity to continue their education on a global level.
Awards and Recognition
Give A Chance!’s work has been internationally recognized and has received several awards:
Best Public School in Kribi – Ministry of Basic Education Cameroon (2019, 2020, 2022)
Mother Language Award – Ministry of Basic Education Cameroon (2020, 2021, 2023)
Education and Training Award 2020 – Corporate Vision
These awards confirm that the projects are not only effective but are also internationally recognized as exemplary.
Our impact – transparency and efficiency Give A Chance! works with a clear focus on sustainability and efficiency. 98% of donations go directly to the projects – with only 2% administration costs. Our team on site ensures that the projects are implemented and continuously monitored.
We offer personal contact and direct collaboration with communities to ensure that every donation goes where it is most needed. Your commitment - realizing our vision together The story of Give A Chance! is a story of vision, commitment and change.
With your support, we can continue to improve the living conditions of children and give them the opportunity to realize their dreams. As an entrepreneur, foundation, association or private individual, you can become part of this success story. Your investment in Give A Chance! is an investment in a better future for thousands of children. Today's team consists of successful entrepreneurs, national and international professionals who work together to implement this vision. Together we can achieve more - together we can change the world. Contact us to find out how you can help: info@gveachance.ch.
The Encounter with Steve
A turning point During one of his trips to Cameroon, Yannick met a seven-year-old boy named Steve. Steve dreamed of becoming a doctor to cure his sick mother. But when Yannick heard this, everyone around him burst into loud laughter. Astonished, Yannick asked why. The children took him to Steve's school - and when he saw the dilapidated state of the school, Yannick realized why no one believed in Steve's dream. The school was in a desolate state, lacking basic materials and resources. The system did not support the children or their dreams. This moment was a turning point for Yannick. Deeply moved, he promised to restore this school and give the children a new perspective.