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 include fundamental rights to education, employment, dignity, and a future free from discrimination and privation. When young people’s rights are protected, they are empowered to make meaningful contributions to their communities and to help shape a better future for all.

“At SAAYC, our commitment to youth is unwavering,” states Mr.Jeff Mkhwanazi , SAAYC Executive Director. “We create pathways for young people to navigate challenges, equipping them with the mindset, knowledge, and skills to transform obstacles into opportunities. Our goal is to foster a generation of intelligent risk-takers—youth who do not just dream of change but actively build it.”

Let us reflect on the significance of human rights for young people. SAAYC stands firm in championing these rights, advocating for the needs and aspirations of youth who are not just future leaders but present-day changemakers. By protecting their rights, we create opportunities to build a more equitable society where youth receive the validation and support they deserve. Together, we can lay the foundation for a society that nurtures the potential of every young person, ensuring a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow.

Let us continue to stand for the rights of youth, ensuring that they are not only heard but empowered to make lasting change.

The Right to Opportunity: Breaking Barriers for Youth

Young people face numerous challenges in accessing their fundamental rights. Many confront systemic barriers to education, employment, and economic freedom. Without the necessary support structures, they risk being left behind. However, SAAYC is committed to addressing these challenges through:

• Focusing on skills development and training is key in preparing youth for the challenges of an ever-changing job market, where adaptability and continuous learning are essential. The initiative to provide both hard and soft skills equips young people with a holistic approach to navigating their personal and professional lives.
• Entrepreneurial support also speaks to the heart of economic independence. Encouraging and supporting youth to create businesses and solutions not only drives economic growth but also fosters innovation in communities, making them more resilient. Entrepreneurship is one of the most powerful ways for young people to shape their futures while contributing to the wider economy.
• Advocacy for equal opportunities ties these efforts together. When young people have access to the same resources, prospects, and support mechanisms, they can rise above limitations and lead with vision and passion. Levelling the playing field is crucial, and ensuring that every young person has access to education, employment, and economic freedom is a step toward a more just society.

 “Human rights are not just theoretical concepts,” says, but the foundation upon which young people build their futures. At SAAYC, we ensure that youth are equipped with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to claim what is rightfully theirs.” – Mr Mkhwanazi

A Future of Empowerment: Young People as Thought Leaders

SAAYC believes that young people are not just participants in change—they are the drivers of it. SAAYC distinguishes young people as intelligent risk-takers who can shape industries, policies, and communities.

Here is why:

• The commitment to advocating for the right to education is important—it’s not just about access to any education but access to quality education that equips young people as the country’s future leaders.
• The focus on water and sanitation underlines the importance of health in youth development. Clean water and sanitation are foundational for both physical health and education as they reduce absenteeism and promote healthier lifestyles. Ensuring access to these resources helps prevent the cycle of poverty and health issues that can limit opportunities.
• We develop mind maps, guiding young people to set and achieve goals that will help them succeed.

Respect, Recognition, and Reform: The SAAYC Commitment to Youth Rights

The fight for youth rights is about more than policy changes—it is about shifting mindsets and creating an environment where young people feel valued and heard. Changing how youth are perceived, supported, and empowered is as important as any law or policy because it directly impacts how they see themselves and their potential. Here’s a closer look at how SAAYC’s dedication is shaping a brighter future:

1. Encouraging Holistic Growth: SAAYC’s emphasis on discipline, critical thinking, and entrepreneurial skills creates a robust foundation for young people. By preparing them for the “evolving landscape of opportunities,” enabling them to not just adapt but thrive in a rapidly changing world. This kind of growth empowers youth to be adaptable problem-solvers who contribute not only to the economy but also to society as innovators and leaders.
2. Championing Youth Voices: Your recognition of young South Africans making a global impact—whether through politics, business, or the arts—speaks volumes about the untapped potential within the youth population. From Oscar-nominated talent to entrepreneurs who are creating industries, young people are proving that they can shape global narratives. By nurturing these voices, SAAYC is creating a platform where youth not only feel seen but also valued as critical change-makers.
3. Balancing Despair with Prosperity: Recognising that challenges exist is an essential part of understanding the context in which young people live. However, SAAYC’s belief that solutions exist and that with the right support, youth can flourish is what truly sets this movement apart. Offering tangible pathways for young people from adversity to success demonstrates a hopeful, solutions-oriented approach. SAAYC is proving that hardships are not roadblocks but stepping stones toward future achievements.

SAAYC: A Movement for Change

The mission of SAAYC goes beyond offering services—it’s about creating a movement that provides both tools and inspiration for youth to lead the way. Here’s how SAAYC is redefining success and impacting the broader community:

• Advocate for policies that support youth development.
• Offer platforms for young people to learn, grow, and lead.
• Create environments where success is not just a possibility but an expectation.

 “When young people know their rights, they are empowered to know better. At SAAYC, we stand as a beacon of hope, ensuring that every young person has access to the tools and opportunities that enable them to build a prosperous future.” – Mr. Mkhwanazi.