Imithayelanga Youth Development—meaning “Sun Rays”—is a research-driven youth development nonprofit established in 2011. Based in Alfred Nzo district Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa, its mission is to empower rural youth to break the cycle of poverty by equipping them to make informed life decisions and accessing educational opportunities
Empowered, future-oriented, and healthy rural youth.
Enable rural youth to make informed life choices and connect them with educational opportunities
IYD tackles key rural youth challenges including:
They empower youth in:
Targets ~3,000 young people annually through community and school-based life skills programmes.
Trains local youth facilitators to act as “agents of change” in their communities. Many graduates become assistant teachers, driving individual growth and resilience
Partnered with PACE Career Centre SA to work with learners from Grade 7–12 on subject choice and career planning. • Hosts events like the annual Career Dress Up Day in collaboration with the Eastern Cape Education Department.
Raises funds to support tertiary students—providing assistance with accommodation, food, and social inclusion—ensuring underprivileged students complete their studies
Main donors and partners include:
These collaborations span local community work, provincial education initiatives, and national advocacy projects.
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