McDonald’s India – North and East has strengthened its focus on youth empowerment by creating employment opportunities for over 1500 young individuals across Delhi NCR through its flagship initiative, McDonald’s for Youth. Implemented in partnership with local NGOs and community organisations, the programme has helped youth across Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Ghaziabad and Faridabad take their first steps into the formal workforce.

Designed to create meaningful opportunities, the initiative focuses particularly on young individuals from less privileged backgrounds by providing them with skills, confidence, and long-term growth pathways.

Launched as part of its contribution to India’s growth journey, the programme has supported many first-time job seekers by preparing them for professional environments. Through McDonald’s global training curriculum, participants receive structured learning in areas including customer service, communication skills, restaurant operations, food safety and hygiene, cash handling, teamwork, and overall professional development.

The initiative aims to provide transferable skills that support long-term employability not only within McDonald’s but across the wider service industry as well.

Speaking about the programme, Rajeev Ranjan, Managing Director, McDonald’s India – North and East, said:

"At McDonald’s India- North and East, we believe the youth deserves the opportunity to grow, learn, and discover their potential. Through ‘McDonald’s for Youth,’ we work with like-minded organisations, and have supported over 2,500 young individuals in taking their first steps into the workforce. Each story of growth reminds us that meaningful opportunities can transform lives, strengthen communities, and build a foundation for a brighter future. This milestone reflects our commitment to empowering youth and creating pathways that extend far beyond the restaurant walls."

Rajesh Soundararajan, Director, Katha, also highlighted the importance of the initiative, saying:

"Delhi NCR is home to a large population of young individuals seeking access to formal employment opportunities and skill-building platforms. Through our partnership with McDonald’s, we have been able to connect youth with meaningful first-job opportunities, helping them build confidence, financial independence, and workplace readiness. We remain committed to supporting their long-term growth and ensuring this initiative continues to create impact at the grassroots level."

Since its launch, the initiative has expanded across Tier 1 and Tier 2 markets, including Delhi NCR, Punjab, Rajasthan, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. The programme now increasingly focuses on local community outreach, where teams directly engage with nearby villages and communities to create awareness around structured employment opportunities.

Following this milestone, McDonald’s India – North and East plans to further scale the initiative and has invited NGO partners across Delhi NCR and other key markets to collaborate for the next phase of youth employment efforts.

NGOs interested in participating can reach out at: hiring.ngo@del.in.mcd.com