South Africa’s youth: A force for change

For the past decade, Johannesburg has been my home, but my 20 years of experience in international development span far and wide. Throughout my career, one thing has remained constant: my unwavering belief in the power of young people to contribute to their communities and the world.

South Africa’s youth are a force to be reckoned with – their energy, creativity, and passion for change are truly inspiring. Every June, Youth Month reminds us of the Soweto Uprising, a powerful testament to the unwavering spirit of young people fighting for a better future. This spirit lives on in the 17.84 million South Africans under 34, a generation brimming with potential.

But potential needs nurturing. From unemployment and underemployment to climate change and the rise of a mental health crisis, young South Africans often face a system that can feel stacked against them. That’s why, at the Anglo American Foundation , we put young people at the heart of everything we do.

We believe they are not just the future, but the present – architects of solutions to the world’s most pressing issues.

By investing in their well-being and empowering them to take ownership of their future, we’re working alongside a diverse network of partners – grassroots organisations, NGOs, and young people themselves. Together, we’re fostering connections, knowledge sharing, and a shift in the narrative: young people are invaluable contributors to building a green and fair future.