#6
Grow our circles
Youth Capital calls for ways to expand young people’s connections to the world of work and provide stronger social networks.
As each of us starts making our way in the world, we inevitably rely on the people we know for information, support and access to opportunities. Expanding young people’s networks can promote social and economic mobility.
The facts are
When you grow up in a children’s home, it’s easy to think that you can’t move forward, that you can’t write your own future. But it’s not true; I had to shift that mentality. Weekly sessions with my first mentor gave me the space and support to come to terms with the fact that not everything happens in my close circle, and that I couldn’t stay in the Children’s Home forever. He helped me grow my confidence and plan a way to push out of my social bubble. I started exploring my interests and creating connections outside of those I already had: I became a rugby referee for the Western Province team and started auditioning as an extra on movie set.
-Francois Potgieter
RESEARCH
In Linked In: Rising through Social and Economic Connections, Youth Capital explores the different social ties young people need to thrive, and the economic impact of social connections among family and friends, as well as people outside one’s immediate circle. Inspired by the working model of organisations such as Bulungula Incubator, WeThinkCode_, and SAYES, the brief offers practical solutions to build social connections for and with young people.
What could improved certification look like?
Take an interest in young people around you; find out about their interests and whether your skills and experience could support them on their journey.
Public Employment Programmes and Youth Employment Programmes intentionally grow the social networks of participants to connect them to further opportunities.
Businesses connect with educational institutions and Youth Employment Programmes around them to offer relevant work exposure for young people.
We’ve got a plan!
Join over 50 organisations and 15 000 individuals and add your voice and experience to a coordinated response to youth unemployment.
