DSD and partners host Provincial Youth Expo

To commemorate Youth Day, the Western Cape Department of Social Development, along with its partners, hosted a Provincial Youth Expo in George on 16 June 2023.

Young people from various towns in the Eden Karoo region attended the event at the George Civic Centre. There were a variety of stalls showcasing the wonderful talent and entrepreneurial spirit of youth from DSD-supported Youth Cafés, information about learning, employment opportunities, as well as entertainment. 

Some of the attendees are those who are supported through the department’s social welfare  and community development interventions, including youth in foster care, Child and Youth Care Centres and youth not in employment, education and/or training (NEET).

Western Cape Minister of Social Development, Sharna Fernandez, told attendees: “Your struggles are not yours alone, you are not alone, and your future is bright. Everything you see around you today has been tailor-made for you. The organisers of today’s event realise the enormous potential you possess, and that you only need to see all the opportunities that are available.”

Provincial Minister Fernandez also thanked all the WCDSD officials, municipalities, NGOs and corporates who made the event possible: “Support of vulnerable and at-risk youth is strengthened thanks to partnerships with communities, the NPO sector, and the private sector. SUFF Academy, the Jaftha Foundation, Reflect Development Division, Wonderful SA, and Cell C, thank you for creating a wonderful event filled with opportunity, enthusiasm, and hope!”

Solakha Noyi, one of the attendees and also a member of the Bitou Junior Council, said the biggest takeaway from the event was the number of facilities and projects provided by government. “I really enjoyed the experience, it was fun, educational, and I made a lot of new friends,” said Noyi.

Gailin Muller is the owner of She-In Style, and had a stand at the expo. “As a young female with a business, this was an amazing experience. The expo allowed me to showcase my work, and for that I am extremely grateful,” said Muller.

The Department of Social Development subsidises 27 NPOs to work in communities where there are youth not in employment, education and/or training. These organisations have provided skills development training to 14 566 beneficiaries in the 2022/23 financial year.

The Department has 12 funded Youth Cafés in the province, which aim to provide a safe space for the development of youth, women and persons with disabilities whilst undergoing training. The youth attending the After School programme at these Cafés access resources and training (which include online training opportunities, digital literacy skills and competencies, and academic support). The programme has reached more than 2 500 learners thus far.

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