DSD Provincial Youth Expo inspiring young people

On 19 June 2024, hundreds of young people continued the Youth Month celebrations at the Western Cape Department of Social Development’s (DSD) Provincial Youth Expo in Saldanha Bay, in collaboration with Mfesane – a DSD-supported NPO.

The annual expo, previously held in Nyanga and George respectively, is an initiative designed to align with the Western Cape Provincial Youth Development Strategy (2013) and national youth development imperatives. The aim of the expo is to engage with and celebrate youth, while linking them to economic and skills development opportunities.

Youth from different towns in the West Coast and neighbouring regions were entertained, educated, and inspired to become positive agents of change. There were various booths showcasing the wonderful talent and entrepreneurial spirit of young people, information about learning and employment opportunities, and DSD services.

Provincial Minister of Social Development Jaco Londt spoke with attendees and young entrepreneurs, who shared their concerns and hopes with him.

One of these entrepreneurs is Saldanha Bay resident Solethu Bambeni who is a self-taught graphic illustrator and owner of Leabric Illustration: “I didn’t want to just sit at home like the people around me. That’s my main motivation for having my own business. I also want to inspire other young people to do the same.”

Camoren Titus started her beauty business, Natural QueenC, four years ago: “Two years ago I took part in Mfesane’s entrepreneurial programme, and through that connection I was invited to the expo. It is an opportunity to network and gain clients. It’s amazing being an entrepreneur, because I get to live out my passion every day and get to do things my way.” 

Minister Londt encouraged attendees to become changemakers:

“My hope is that all the young people use the opportunities that have been presented to them. We are still in Youth Month, and we need to continue to support the youth by linking them to learning and job opportunities. In this way, their potential can be optimally developed so they may contribute to this province and country in a meaningful way.”

“I also want to thank all the stakeholders who helped make today possible: the entrepreneurs, the NPOs like Mfesane, government departments such as the Provincial Department of Infrastructure, the National Youth Development Agency, Saldanha Bay Municipality and the West Coast District Municipality, institutions of higher learning, and the corporate sector. Collaborations are vital for sustainable youth development,” added Minister Londt.

DSD subsidises 27 NPOs to work in communities where there are youth not in employment, education and/or training. These organisations provide skills development training to young people.

The Department funds 12 Youth Cafés in the province, where youth, women, and persons with disabilities can find a safe space while undergoing training for their development. Young people attending the After-School programme at these Cafés access resources and training such as online training opportunities, digital literacy skills and competencies, and academic support. 14 538 youth accessed departmental skills development and training programmes at Youth Cafés and community-based organisations during the 2023/2024 financial year.

For more information about the Department’s services, please call our toll-free number 0800 220 250 or visit your nearest Department of Social Development local office. You can also visit https://www.westerncape.gov.za/dept/social-development

More images can be found on Minister Londt’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=122103842330364553&set=pcb.122103844004364553 | Provincial Minister Jaco Londt