Unlocking Opportunities: The Role of Volunteering for South Africa's Youth

In South Africa, a staggering 45.6% of young individuals aged 15 to 34 are unable to secure employment, according to the latest figures from Statistics South Africa. This alarming statistic underscores a growing crisis where nearly one in two young South Africans express a desire to work but find themselves without viable options. According to Andronica Mabuya, head of corporate social investment at Discovery Limited, what lies behind these numbers are not just statistics but the unfulfilled dreams and potential of young people in our communities.

The nation boasts a youthful demographic, with those aged 15 to 34 constituting over a third of the population. While this could be viewed as a significant economic advantage, the reality is that many young South Africans face discouragement in pursuing job opportunities. Approximately two million young individuals are classified as discouraged work seekers, having ceased their job search due to repeated failures in the labor market. This trend is not a reflection of their ambition but an indication of the systemic barriers they encounter.

Despite the challenges, the potential for positive change exists. South Africa is rich in talent and organizations dedicated to youth development, yet a disconnect persists between these resources and the young people who need them. An often-overlooked solution is corporate volunteerism, which can provide essential skills development, mentorship, and networking opportunities. When volunteering is strategically designed to include these elements, it transforms from simple altruism into a viable pathway to employment.

Mentorship, in particular, serves as a critical tool for young people to build resilience and acquire vital skills. As mentors share their expertise, they prepare young individuals not just for the job market but for life. This connection fosters a sense of belonging and opens doors to opportunities that may have previously seemed unattainable.

Successful initiatives already exist, often operating in silos. The International Association for Volunteer Effort (IAVE) has launched the Reskilling Revolution Africa program in partnership with IBM, engaging over 30,000 young people in Nigeria, Ethiopia, and South Africa. Participants have collectively contributed more than 153,000 hours of verified volunteering and earned over 2,000 internationally recognized digital credentials, with a significant 63% of participants being young women.

Another notable initiative is Zlto, a digital platform co-founded by Allan van der Meulen, which rewards young South Africans for their community service efforts. With over one million users and more than 2.5 million hours of service tracked, Zlto has disbursed over R3 million in rewards, demonstrating the willingness of youth to engage in volunteerism when tangible benefits are offered.

To effectively transition from discussions about youth unemployment to actionable solutions, collaboration across sectors is essential. The focus should shift toward creating a coherent movement that brings together corporates, NGOs, government entities, and young people to co-design pathways into the workforce. This collective effort could harness existing resources and create a robust employment pipeline through intentional volunteering.

As we approach the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development in 2026, it is crucial to recognize that volunteerism can lead to real competencies that enhance employability. By integrating volunteer work into policies and strategies, we can better support youth in gaining the skills necessary for the future workforce.

The time has come for leaders and organizations involved in volunteering to ask how they can leverage their skills and networks to create opportunities for young people. The youth of South Africa are not seeking mere handouts; they are asking for pathways to skills, learning, and meaningful employment. The long-term success of the country hinges on how we respond to these needs, ensuring that our demographic advantage translates into a thriving future for all.

Source: www.dailymaverick.co.za