In France, the start of the school year often marks a troubling reality: thousands of teens, aged 16 to 18, dropping out of school. It’s a concerning trend that can lead to serious consequences, from social isolation to unemployment and even involvement in crime. To address this issue head-on, the government-backed training program, La Promo 16-18, launched an initiative called “Unblocked.”
Imagine being stuck on the sofa, feeling lost and disconnected from opportunities. That’s the reality for many teens who drop out of school in France. But what if there was a way to rewrite their story, to unblock their future and offer them hope?
That’s precisely what “Unblocked” aims to do. Inspired by the popular series “Blocked,” which follows the lives of two unemployed individuals trapped in a cycle of inertia, “Unblocked” offers a fresh perspective. In a groundbreaking final episode, the protagonist of “Blocked” gives voice to three former dropouts, showcasing their journey to a brighter future.
To bring this vision to life, Afpa partnered with a diverse array of artists, including Gringe, a renowned rapper and actor, Just Riadh, an influential social media personality, Mayada, a talented comic book artist, and Shaunz, a popular gamer. Together, they created a compelling narrative that resonated with school dropouts and encouraged them to break free from isolation.
Using the live streaming platform Twitch, Afpa engaged directly with its target audience, providing a platform for interaction and support. By broadcasting the final episode of “Unblocked” at the start of the school year, Afpa sparked conversations and inspired teens to reconsider their educational journey.
But the campaign didn’t stop there. Afpa launched a comprehensive recruitment drive on social media, reaching out to both school dropouts and their parents. Through targeted messaging and compelling content, they highlighted the opportunities available through La Promo 16-18, encouraging teens to take the first step towards a brighter future.
“Unblocked” isn’t just a campaign; it’s a movement towards positive change. By addressing the root causes of school dropout rates and providing tangible solutions, Afpa is empowering young people to reclaim their education and pursue their dreams.
As the final episode of “Blocked” fades to black, a new chapter begins for the characters—and for the teens inspired by their journey. With “Unblocked,” Afpa is rewriting the script for thousands of young lives, offering hope, opportunity, and the chance to build a better future.
