Every year on 16 June, South Africans commemorate Youth Day and remember the courage of the young people who stood up against injustice during the Soweto Uprising of 1976. Youth Day remains one of South Africa’s most important national commemorations, reminding us of the power of young people to challenge the status quo and shape the future of our country.
This Youth Day, Light from Africa Foundation (LFAF) participated in a community programme in Suurbraak, where children and young people learned about the historical significance of the day and reflected on the role that youth have played in South Africa’s journey towards freedom and democracy.
For LFAF CEO Godfrey Hendrickse, Youth Day is not only about remembering the past. It is also about recognising our responsibility to invest in the next generation.
“The legacy of 16 June is not only found in history books,” says Hendrickse. “It lives on every time a young person finds the confidence to lead, gains a new skill, pursues their education or discovers a sense of purpose. That is how we honour the courage of those who came before us.”
Nearly 50 years later, many young people continue to face barriers to opportunity, particularly in rural communities. Yet they remain one of South Africa’s greatest sources of hope, innovation and resilience.
Investing in Young People Today
At Light from Africa Foundation, youth development is a key part of building stronger communities and creating opportunities for young people to realise their potential.
Currently, 44 learners from three schools in Cape Town are graduating from the Foundation’s Youth Leadership Programme, which Megan Goliath facilitates. What began as a journey with many hesitant and reserved participants evolved into a programme where young people developed greater confidence, built meaningful relationships and embraced a growth mindset. Through mentorship, self-reflection and leadership development, the programme encouraged learners to recognise their strengths and find their voices.
The Foundation has also launched its Rural Youth Wrap-Around Bursary, a programme that supports youth education and assists students from rural communities pursuing tertiary studies. The first five bursary recipients are studying disciplines that are critical to the future of South Africa, including Education, Community Development, Law, and Nursing and Midwifery.
By helping to cover essential costs such as transport, books, stationery and personal hygiene products, the bursary seeks to remove barriers that might otherwise prevent students from completing their studies and achieving their goals.
Skills development remains another important focus area. Five participants graduated this month from the Basic Computer Literacy Programme, including three young people aged under 35. The programme equips participants with practical digital skills that can enhance their employability and create future opportunities.
Beyond education and skills development, LFAF continues to create spaces where young people can express themselves creatively and build a sense of belonging. This Youth Day, the Foundation is hosting an art collective in Suurbraak, in partnership with local organisations where young people are being encouraged to explore creativity, strengthen community connections and contribute to the cultural life of the village.
Carrying the Legacy Forward
For Hendrickse, the lesson of Youth Day is both simple and profound.
“The young people of 1976 demanded a better future. Our responsibility is to ensure that young people today have the tools, opportunities and support to build it,” he says.
As South Africa commemorates Youth Day 2026, Light from Africa Foundation remains committed to supporting young people through leadership development, education support, skills training and creative expression.
By investing in young people today, we honour the legacy of those who marched in 1976 and help build stronger, more resilient communities for generations to come.
To support our programmes email info@lighfromafrica.com or call Godfrey on 082 390 2241.
