YearBeyond programme honoured for innovation and impact

On Thursday, 12 November 2026, The Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport’s (DCAS) YearBeyond programme was honoured as one of the HundrEd global collection recipients.

The HundrEd organisation rewards innovation in education across the world. Every year, they recognise the 100 most impactful and scalable educational innovations each year. The YearBeyond programme was selected from 857 entries across 100 countries for this recognition.

YearBeyond was started in 2015 as a youth service and education programme in the Western Cape. Since then, it has scaled geographically and sectorally. Today YearBeyond works in over 1 000 sites, across three provinces, with 64 partners in early learning, education, libraries, museums and clinics. The programme offers youth the opportunity to gain valuable in-service training, while also developing their soft skills for future employment, as well as giving back in their communities. This is turn supports the growth of the Western Cape economy and adds to a growth in a skilled workforce. 

YearBeyond provides youth with work experience while they serve and close the educational gap. This experience builds their confidence and according to Stats SA increases their chances of finding work fourfold. The result is that each year over 70% of these young people transition from NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) status to being economically active.

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde congratulated the YearBeyond programme on this achievement. “We are very excited to see YearBeyond receive this recognition and that others also see the potential for scaling it up. We have seen the programme making an impact in improving future prospects for youth and offering them a pathway to success. We hope to continue partnering with organisations to keep innovating and scaling in this space so that we can make a positive impact on all children across our province.” he said.

Provincial Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Ricardo Mackenzie, said: “This recognition is a proud moment for the Western Cape and proof of what is possible when we invest in our young people. Talent exists in every community, but opportunity does not always follow. YearBeyond is changing that by equipping young people with the skills, confidence and experience to build better futures, while making a meaningful difference in the communities they serve. When we open doors for our youth, we strengthen our communities and build a stronger Western Cape for all.”

Media Enquiries:
Tania Colyn
Head of Communications
076 093 4913