Youth Day South Africa — A New Cohort Ready to Make Their Mark
Today marks Youth Day in South Africa – rooted in the legacy of the Soweto Uprising of 1976 – and a reminder of the power young people hold when they take a stand in shaping the country’s future. Today it also acts to shine a light on the young people using their agency to improve their futures. Our First Step Resource Management Project (FSRM), primarily funded by John Lewis Partnership with support from our generous supporters Veralto, focuses on empowering young people in areas of high unemployment.
In recent years South Africa has experienced incredibly high levels of youth unemployment, in 2025 seeing figures as high as 62%. We see time and again motivated and dedicated young people joining our programmes, wishing to create a better future for themselves, their families and their communities. The newest cohort into our FSRM programme in South Africa is no different. Here is what a few of them had to say;
“When the opportunity was shared in our community, I decided to take a chance and apply. I am happy to be part of the programme and excited about what lies ahead.” – Bandile, 21 years old
“I see myself in the next six to twelve months as an established entrepreneur, earning an income and being able to finance my studies.” – Lindiwe, 29 years old
“I believe that when I succeed, my family and even my neighbourhood will benefit and begin to change for the better.” – Percy 25 years old
With so many success stories from previous participants, these young people have every reason to feel positive about their futures. We recently caught up with Yvonne, who previously took part in WasteAid’s training programme and whose story is a true inspiration. As the youngest member of the eight-person Kwaggafontein Landfill Group, Yvonne holds responsibility for the team’s administrative duties — a role her fellow members clearly value. Recognising her dedication and commitment, they nominated her to attend WasteAid’s training, so that she could bring those skills and knowledge back to the whole team.
She talks about how she has been able to become financially independent since receiving the training; “my life has changed. I am able to buy food for my family and provide for our basic necessities.”
She goes on to say; “I want to encourage other young people to join the sector so that we can tackle unemployment together…The industry has huge potential, especially if you are organised and have the knowledge and passion to succeed.”
“Today, I believe that many young people can create opportunities for themselves by exploring the informal economy.
“My advice to unemployed young people is not to stress too much about finding formal jobs. There are many opportunities in the informal sector, including waste management. You can change your life, make a difference in your community, and protect the environment at the same time.”
As we mark Youth Day 2026, we are reminded that the spirit of 1976 lives on in every young person who refuses to be defined by their circumstances. The determination of Bandile, Lindiwe, Percy, and Yvonne reflects what becomes possible when ambition meets opportunity – and it is a reminder of why this work matters. With the generous support of John Lewis Partnership and Veralto, we will continue to walk alongside young people as they build better futures for themselves, their families, and their communities. If you would like to learn more about the FSRM programme or support our work, here.
Yvonne, administrator of the Kwaggafontein Landfill Group