As South Africa marks Youth Day on 16 June, the country’s youth continue to face significant barriers to employment. For 26-year-old Thandokazi from Khayelitsha, the road to employment was marked by personal loss, financial hardship and uncertainty. Today, however, she is employed, supporting her family and looking forward to a brighter future thanks in part to the support she received through Christel House South Africa’s Youth Bridge programme.

Thandokazi was raised by her grandmother in Mthatha. Determined to create a better life for herself, she enrolled in Human Resources studies at a TVET college before relocating to Gqeberha to continue her education. However, after the passing of her mother and ongoing financial challenges, she was forced to put her studies on hold.

To support herself, she took on various forms of work, including hair braiding, before securing employment at a cash loan company. When the business relocated to Johannesburg in 2025, she chose not to move due to the lack of a support system, leaving her unemployed once again.

Encouraged by her father, she moved to Cape Town in search of new opportunities. Starting over in an unfamiliar city proved challenging, particularly without an established support network.

It was during this time that she came across a Facebook post about Christel House South Africa’s Youth Bridge programme and decided to apply.

The Youth Bridge programme supports unemployed young people by providing job-readiness training, mentorship and practical assistance to help them transition into employment. Through the programme, Thandokazi received guidance from facilitators Babo and Busi, who helped her build confidence, clarify her goals and prepare for the job market.

The programme also assisted with practical barriers such as transport and interview clothing, helping her access opportunities that may otherwise have been out of reach.

Throughout her journey, her family remained her greatest motivation.

“I don’t want my sister to go through the same struggles I faced with my studies,” says Thandokazi, referring to her younger sister who is studying to become a veterinarian.

In December 2025, her perseverance paid off when she secured a permanent position at Nu Metro Cinemas. Starting as a cleaner, she later earned a promotion to bartender through her hard work and commitment.

Today, she continues to develop her skills while supporting her family and planning for the future. She hopes to expand her experience within the business and one day bring her grandmother and sister together to live under one roof.

As young South Africans reflect on the significance of Youth Day, Thandokazi hopes her story will inspire others facing similar challenges.

“Don’t just follow what everyone else is doing,” she says. “Do what is right for you and don’t listen to what other people say you should do. Focus on your own journey and trust yourself.”

She also encourages young people not to forget those who supported them along the way.

For Christel House South Africa, stories like Thandokazi’s highlight the importance of investing in youth development and creating pathways to employment. At a time when many young South Africans continue to face economic uncertainty, her journey demonstrates how access to support, skills development and opportunity can help transform lives.

For more information on Christel House South Africa’s Youth Bridge programme, please contact Career Development Manager, Louise de Marillac st Julien at ldmsjulien@sa.christelhouse.org.