JA SOUTH AFRICA & MASTERCARD KICK OFF YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS TO BUILD THRIVING COMMUNITIES

Johannesburg, South Africa – 20 February 2025 – Junior Achievement South Africa (JA South Africa), in partnership with Mastercard South Africa, kicked off  the Youth Enterprise Development Program (YEDP) and the Entrepreneurship Accelerator Program (EAP) at Entokozweni Centre, Mamelodi and Katlehong.

The programs,  designed to empower out-of-school youth in the community with essential business and financial skills, fostering entrepreneurship and job creation within the two communities. 

The programs will seek to provide young people in the community with hands-on training, mentorship, and access to funding to help them establish and grow sustainable businesses. Participants will also benefit from an added Microsoft Essential Careers in Generative AI Program, equipped with future-ready digital skills to enhance their entrepreneurial ventures and employability.

“At JA South Africa, we are committed to empowering young people with the skills, tools, and opportunities they need to succeed,” says Nelo Spies, Executive Director of JA South Africa. “The YEDP and EAP programs are crucial for out-of-school youth who want to develop their own businesses and contribute to thriving communities.”

Program Impact & Opportunities

Participants will gain:

  • Entrepreneurial Training: Practical business skills, including financial literacy, business management, and marketing.

  • Access to Mentorship: Guidance from experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts.

  • Microfinance Opportunities: Support in securing small-scale funding to kick-start or expand their ventures.

  • Digital Skills Development: Training in essential digital tools and AI-driven career applications, preparing them for a technology-driven economy.

Why This Matters

Youth unemployment remains one of the most pressing challenges in South Africa. According to recent statistics, a significant portion of young people remain outside formal employment or educational opportunities. By equipping youth with the skills and support to create their own businesses, the JA South Africa and Mastercard partnership aims to drive economic inclusion, reduce unemployment, and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.

How to Get Involved

The YEDP and EAP programs are open to out-of-school youth aged 18–35 residing in Mamelodi and Katlehong.  Interested participants can apply through the Entokozweni Community Centre. 

For media inquiries, interviews, or partnership opportunities, please contact:

Bernadette Bule

Marketing & Communications Manager

JA South Africa 


About JA South Africa
Junior Achievement South Africa (JA South Africa) is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to preparing young people for employment and entrepreneurship. Through experiential learning programs, JA South Africa empowers youth with financial literacy, work readiness, and business skills.

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