Celebrating Excellence at YLED 2023 Graduation

On the 28th of October 2023, YLED hosted its 17th YLED Programme Graduation under the theme #forgeahead, and the social cause theme #endperiodpovertynow, echoing the urgency to address a critical issue. The YLED 2023 Program was a testament to the boundless potential that resides within South Africa's youth, showcasing their dedication to growth, development, and their unwavering commitment to crafting a brighter future.

This year's YLED program saw the participation of 62 Grade 11 learners from 18 high schools, representing diverse backgrounds and communities. Our participants, aged 16 to 19, brought a rich tapestry of experiences, dreams, and aspirations to the program. In an effort to measure our impact, we collected core data, providing a glimpse into the lives of our participants, their families, and their entrepreneurial aspirations.?

The YLED 2023 Program was an intensive 30-week journey, focusing on life skills and entrepreneurship, guided by a dedicated team of mentors, coaches, and volunteers. The program's emphasis on entrepreneurship was particularly evident in the Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge, which presented an opportunity for young minds to test their entrepreneurial skills and build mini-enterprises from the ground up.

One aspect that stands out is the remarkable gender disparity, with 70% of the program's participants being young women. While this is undoubtedly a testament to the program's ability to empower and inspire young females to excel in entrepreneurship, it also raises questions about balance and equity in the program. Female participants swept the top awards, with a history that has seen only two male recipients of the Best YLEDer Award in the program's 17-year journey.

This leads us to the call for a more balanced and equitable representation of genders in leadership and entrepreneurship, fostering an environment where all young minds, regardless of their gender, can explore their potential, develop leadership skills, and succeed as entrepreneurs. The YLED program has a vital role to play in addressing these disparities and inspiring a generation that strives for excellence.

The story of Unrine Ralinala, a student from Media Roedean School Roedean School Council School for Girls, stands as a testament to the boundless potential of our youth. Unarine's incredible journey and remarkable feat of securing four of the six prestigious awards offered during the YLED 2023 Graduation reflect the spirit of resilience, entrepreneurial drive, and leadership that YLED seeks to instill in every participant. Unarine, a beacon of excellence, embodies the limitless potential that resides within our youth.?

Inspiration and Encouragement

The graduation ceremony featured Dr Bongani Mageba, PhD , who delivered a powerful message aligned with the theme of forging ahead. He encouraged the young participants to make wise choices, focusing on fundamentals, competence, genuineness, and interest. Dr. Mageba's words remind us that personal growth and entrepreneurship success are not limited by circumstances but by choices. South Africa's youth have the potential and the power to make the right choices, and programs like YLED are guiding lights on their path.

Parental Reflection and Appreciation

Eric Ralinala , a parent, shared valuable insights on his journey of supporting his daughter Unarine during her participation in the program. He acknowledged the lessons he learned about his daughter, the program, and the challenges faced by South Africa's youth from less privileged communities.

Recognition and Gratitude

YLED Founder and Chairperson, Dr Steven Zwane , expressed heartfelt gratitude to all involved in the success of the YLED 2023 Programme. He thanked the cohort, parents, teachers, partners, volunteers, coaches, mentors, and supporters.

Special recognition was given to partners, including GIBS Business School (Gordon Institute of Business Science) Morris Mthombeni (he/him/his) , African Bank Elizabeth Ramashala , FNB Volunteers, MaZwane Foundation Rita Zwane (MaZwane) , Sasria SOC Limited and individual contributors like Bhavin Lala , Busi Dube , and Zellah Fuphe (She/Her) .

Our heartfelt thanks go to everyone who contributed to the success of the YLED 2023 Program. A special tribute goes out to Faith Moeletsane , whose exceptional facilitation skills ensured that the essence of the program came through. We are indebted to our dedicated team of volunteers Faith Moeletsane Thabo Isaac Serame MMBD,PDM, Lean Kanban,BA Honors Leigh-Ann Govender Thando Zwane , coaches Disebo Ramonyalioa Mandla Makhubela , Busisiwe Thando Mkhize and mentors yongama mnqonywa Cassidean Isaacs Khanyisile Hlongwane who brought the program to life.

Continuing the Journey

As the YLED 2023 graduates embark on their future endeavors, they carry with them the invaluable lessons, skills, and experiences gained through the program. YLED's mission to empower South African youth through education, entrepreneurship, and social impact remains unwavering. The organization looks forward to continued partnerships and support from organizations towards ensuring the sustainable transformation of the next generation.

The YLED 2023 Graduation was a celebration of potential realized, dreams kindled, and futures brightened. It served as a reminder that with dedication, support, and the right opportunities, South Africa's youth can indeed rise up and make a meaningful impact on their communities and the nation as a whole.