As South Africa commemorates Youth Month 2025, we find ourselves once again at a poignant intersection between remembrance and responsibility. This year’s theme, “Accelerating Youth Empowerment for a Sustainable Future”, reverberates with urgency as the nation grapples with persistent youth challenges such as unemployment, limited access to education, and the rising tide of mental health […]

By Claudia Sibiya, HR Manager – SAAYC As South Africa celebrates 31 years of democracy, a critical question continues to guide our mission at the Southern African Association of Youth Clubs (SAAYC): How do we build youth organisations that truly empower young people to lead change? At SAAYC, we believe the answer lies in strengthening

By Gift Mohosane, SAAYC Board Member Every May, South Africa pauses to honour the workers who keep our economy moving forward. From the early morning minibus driver to the late-night security guard, the teacher shaping young minds to the nurse delivering critical care—these individuals form the backbone of our nation. However, Workers’ Month is not

By Caswell Komako, SAAYC Programmes Manager In a country that celebrated thirty years of democracy in 2024, it should be safe to assume that universal franchise equates to freedom for all. But for many young South Africans, especially those grappling with poverty, unemployment, and food insecurity, freedom remains a distant dream. At SAAYC, we believe

By Bonginkosi Nkosi, SAAYC Board Member In 1994, South Africa took a defining step toward democracy—a moment marked by long queues, hopeful faces, and the belief that the right to vote would bring liberation and freedom. Now, 31 years later, we commemorate that watershed moment—while also facing an uncomfortable reality: for many young South Africans,

Mr. Jeff Mkhwanazi, SAAYC Executive Director The strength of a nation is measured not only by its economic success but also by the well-being, empowerment, and rights of its young people. At SAAYC, we believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to succeed and thrive. Human rights for youth go beyond legal recognition; they

In a world increasingly shaped by digital technology, access to IT skills and cyber security knowledge is no longer a luxury but a fundamental inference on human rights. The Southern African Association of Youth Clubs (SAAYC) recognises this reality and has taken action through its ICTage Programme—an initiative designed to empower young people especially in

In post-apartheid South Africa, the scars of a deeply divided past continue to impact the lives of many. For the youth, particularly, the legacy of apartheid has often meant a struggle for identity, dignity, and equal opportunity. However, an organization like the Southern African Association of Youth Clubs (SAAYC) is leading the way in empowering

February is known as the month of love, but have you considered the significance of self-love beyond romantic gestures? True self-love is more than a fleeting sentiment; it is the foundation of respect for oneself and those around us. When we appreciate our worth, we tend to extend that same respect and value to others,

Mr. Tshidiso Motaung, SAAYC Chairman Organisational success is measured not just by its achievements, but by the well-being and growth of its people. At SAAYC, we believe that when an organisation truly cares for its employees, they do more than just show up—they commit, engage, and excel. A great workplace is not built on policies