Young people across South Africa are being invited to apply for life-changing opportunities through the YearBeyond Programme — a proven youth-in-service initiative that combines meaningful community work, skills development, and real-world experience.
The programme is supported by government, the National Youth Development Agency, donors, and NGOs. Originally launched in the Western Cape and now active nationally, YearBeyond supports unemployed youth aged 18 to 25 by placing them in community-based roles while preparing them for further study or employment.
#SayYeBo Campaign Now Open
Running from 7 January to 13 February 2026, the #SayYeBo campaign encourages young people to apply for a year of structured service — gaining practical experience, valuable workplace skills, and the opportunity to make a positive difference in their communities.
Participants, known as YeBoneers, are placed in programmes that respond directly to real social needs, including:
-
Learner support in schools
-
Early childhood development
-
Libraries and reading initiatives
-
Youth wellbeing and social-emotional learning
-
Play-based and enrichment activities
-
Social cohesion and community development work
-
Creating Pathways Beyond Unemployment
Speaking about the programme, Western Cape MEC for Cultural Affairs and Sport Ricardo Mackenzie said YearBeyond is about offering young people direction and opportunity at a critical stage of their lives.
“YearBeyond creates meaningful pathways for young people who may be uncertain about their next steps. It offers a year of practical experience, skills development, and confidence-building that improves employability — whether as future employees or entrepreneurs. This is a hand up that helps young people move toward independence and opportunity.”
He added that initiatives like YearBeyond provide constructive alternatives for young people, helping them stay engaged, hopeful, and focused on building a better future.
Investing in Youth Potential
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde highlighted the long-term value of investing in youth:
“Giving young people the best possible chance to succeed is part of our responsibility. YearBeyond is a vital investment in youth potential — equipping young people with skills, experience, and confidence to contribute meaningfully to their families, communities, and the economy.”
How to Apply
Young people interested in applying should:
-
Create or update their profile on SAYouth.mobi
-
Ensure their address details are correct and up to date
-
Search for YearBeyond opportunities on the platform
-
Open the opportunity card for their municipality
-
Apply and select all 2026 YearBeyond programmes they are interested in
More information on eligibility is available at yearbeyond.org/apply-1.
Applications close on 13 February 2026.
