Engaging the Youth: Western Cape Government’s Initiative for Empowerment

The Western Cape Government (WCG) of South Africa is dedicated to supporting and uplifting the youth by addressing the challenges they face, including unemployment. As the nation celebrates Youth Day on June 16th every year, the WCG is proactively seeking ways to engage with young people and help them realize their full potential.

Transversal Youth Forum

One of the key initiatives by the WCG is the Transversal Youth Forum, which is convened by the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS). This forum brings together a diverse group of stakeholders to enrich and implement initiatives that empower the youth while ensuring a cohesive and impactful response to their needs.

#ThethaYouth #PraatNou Campaign 2023

The WCG has planned a series of dialogues, called the “# ThethaYouth #PraatNou Campaign 2023,” as part of the Youth Month 2023 activities. The goal is to provide an inclusive platform for meaningful engagement with the youth of the Western Cape, allowing the WCG to better comprehend their aspirations, challenges, and requirements. These dialogues aim to co-create innovative solutions by directly addressing the issues faced by the youth.

Premier Alan Winde’s Youth Digicon

Premier Alan Winde will host a Youth Digicon on June 15th, where young individuals participating in education and internship opportunities provided by the provincial government will have the chance to discuss their challenges. The event will focus on how the WCG can create more opportunities and better support the youth in realizing their full potential.

Initiatives by DCAS

DCAS is organizing various initiatives throughout Youth Month, including an annual Archives Awareness Week, youth netball tournament, Youth Day event with SAPS, and displays, exhibitions, and literature initiatives at libraries across the province. Museums will also host Youth Day activities and exhibitions.

YearBeyond Program

In collaboration with the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) Graduate School of Business (GSB), the YearBeyond program is involved in community activations and a business breakfast focusing on why youth employment is a collective responsibility and how companies can ensure GenZ’s success. YearBeyond will also participate in the Department of Economic Development and Tourism’s HRDPCF on June 14th, showcasing the work done in the province.

Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport’s Enthusiasm

The Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport and Cabinet lead for youth, Anroux Marais, expressed her enthusiasm for these initiatives, stating, “We are working hard to support our youth across the province to connect in safe spaces and to take steps towards successful futures.” Marais emphasized the importance of listening to the youth and unlocking their creativity to help build a brighter future for all.

By engaging with the youth and addressing their challenges, the Western Cape Government demonstrates a firm commitment to empowering the next generation. Through these inclusive, innovative, and collaborative programs, the WCG aims to foster a supportive environment where young people can thrive and contribute to a prosperous future for the nation.