Youth Development

By Mr. Jeff Mkhwanazi, SAAYC Executive Director The history of South Africa is filled with a vibrant story of resilience, unity, and struggle. However, we remain a nation with historical divides that have not gone away and are actively part of our systems today. The process of healing is not just for government or institutions;

By Mr. Mthandeni Mbhele, SAAYC Board Member Every year on July 18th, South Africans and people around the world come together for a meaningful cause: honouring the life and legacy of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. Mandela Day serves as a reminder that each person has the power and duty to make a difference. The message is

In a nation where youth constitute over a third of the population, developing their leadership potential is not only a strategic necessity but a moral imperative. The Southern African Association of Youth Clubs (SAAYC), a long-standing champion of youth development, has responded to this call through its dynamic Life Skills & Leadership Training programme. Designed

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