Celebrating 20 years of nurturing minds and developing leaders.

Leaving a lasting impact

YLED is an award-winning social enterprise that develops young people, positioning them for future success in their communities, academia, business, and the workplace.

We have transformed over 20 000 lives

We strive to impart essential life skills and foster an entrepreneurial spirit among in-school learners and out-of-school youth from diverse communities and backgrounds, equipping them with the tools they need for future success.

Setting our youth up for success

Since 2004, at least 95% of YLED graduates have gone on to achieve academic qualifications, take up leadership roles, start small enterprises, and contribute to the economy. Others have progressed from entry-level jobs to management positions.

Empowering a generation of leaders, together

YLED has successfully executed Youth Skills Development Programs through strategic partnerships with businesses, corporations, NGOs, and individuals who believe in our mission.

32

Weeks of intense impact

140

Dedicated Volunteers

132

Partner Schools

42

Mini Enterprises

Do you believe that YLED would be an ideal CSI partner as it aligns to your passion for preparing our youth for success?

Why YLED?

To achieve personal growth and success, YLED’rs are taught to develop better communication skills, persist through failure, and cultivate flexibility and adaptability when facing obstacles. Additionally, they are encouraged to take smart risks, improve their problem-solving skills, and become an effective opportunity finder.

The YLED Impact*

Young women participants0%
Learners who pursued academic pathways0%
Employability rate0%
Learners with entreprenuerial intentions0%
Learners who took entreprenuerial action0%
*Zwane, S. (2023).! Determining the influence of entrepreneurship intervention on the entrepreneurial intentions of the youth in South Africa! (Doctoral dissertation, Durham University).

Testimonials

  • “The benefit of having a perfect guide at their disposal”

    For the last 20 years, young people from all walks of South Africa have experienced the benefit of having a perfect guide at their disposal - YLED! Career guidance, self-awareness skills, and a self-starting attitude have fortified so many of us from our adolescence to adulthood. These lessons we carry even to marriage and further.

    – Solomon Savhuli –

  • “A testament to remarkable work”

    Thato Kgatlhanye, the founder of Repurpose Schoolbags, showcased her remarkable company that produces school bags made from recycled plastic bags. Her story captivated the cohort, inspiring them with her innovative solution to both environmental and educational challenges. Witnessing Thato's passion, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit left a profound impact on the attendees, instilling a sense of admiration and motivation to make a positive difference in their own pursuits.

    – Claire Odgers –

  • “Captivated by the youth’s thirst for knowledge”

    Initially motivated by personal branding, I soon found myself captivated by the youth's thirst for knowledge and the selfless dedication of the facilitators. Witnessing the transformation of our cohort from good to great during graduation ceremonies was truly humbling. YLED, with its unique approach, has empowered generations spanning two decades, equipping them to compete globally and leaving a lasting impact on communities worldwide.

    – Bobo Mpobane –

  • “I hope its influence continues to resonate globally”

    Today, our alumni, spanning over 20 years, stand out in the international community, leaving their mark and supporting the next generation of YLED participants. Their commitment is not just out of loyalty but also belief in a proven model that has enabled them to achieve heights they may not have reached alone. I am forever thankful to be part of this journey and optimistic about the continued impact of YLED on future leaders worldwide.

    – Bobo Mpobane –

  • “Shaping young leaders and fostering entrepreneurship”

    "On the occasion of YLED's 20th anniversary, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the organisation. This milestone is a testament to the remarkable work YLED has done over the years in shaping young leaders and fostering entrepreneurship. Your impact on countless lives is immeasurable, and your contribution to creating a more prosperous and inclusive society in South Africa is truly commendable. Here's to 20 years of inspiring and shaping the leaders of tomorrow!"

    – Claire Odgers –

  • “A champion of the entrepreneurship spirit”

    This guide has acted mother-like: giving birth to driven, dedicated, national champions and trailblazers now spread all over the world. All of these carry the gospel of youth empowerment, and champion the entrepreneurship spirit wherever they plant their roots. While the proverbial 'forest' can be scary to navigate alone, the organisation said to its beneficiaries, “do not be afraid, for I am with you. I will hold on to you and help you.

    – Solomon Savhuli –

  • “Developing the next generation of entrepreneurial leaders”

    Over the last 20 years, YLED has been nurturing minds and developing the next generation of entrepreneurial leaders. It is important for organisations to partner and invest in youth entrepreneurship development interventions because they empower young people to solve problems, create jobs, increase their chances of employment and encourage economic participation.

    – Tebang Ntsasa –

  • “Transformative power of empowering young people”

    Through my engagement with YLED, I have witnessed first-hand the transformative power of empowering young individuals to become leaders and entrepreneurs in South Africa. YLED's commitment to fostering the growth and development of young people has opened my eyes to the immense potential and innovative ideas that the youth possess. This experience has highlighted the importance of providing guidance, support, and opportunities for young individuals to thrive and make a positive impact on their communities and the world.

    – Claire Odgers –

  • “YLED has empowered me to live my purpose”

    Through my involvement as a YLED volunteer, I've realised my childhood aspiration of becoming a social worker and gained insights into resilience, self-leadership, and serving others. YLED has empowered me to live my purpose, and I'm proud to contribute to its impactful work in our county and communities. Here's to celebrating 20 years of success and continuing to make meaningful contributions to leadership and entrepreneurship.

    – Busisiwe Mkhize –

  • “Sowing the seeds of purpose into the lives of young people”

    Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime!” Siyabonga to #YLED for empowering our youth with necessary tools that will impact generations to come and for equipping young people of SA with better knowledge and skills that will help them to create their own path in the world economic space.

    – Rita “MaZwane” Zwane –

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