Rooted in the Salesian tradition of St John Bosco, SIYP has served young people for over 100 years, providing holistic education, vocational training and psychosocial support to those who need it most. Today, the Cape Town-based non-profit stands as an integrated youth development ecosystem, equipping young people with practical skills, life values and real pathways into employment and entrepreneurship, says the NPO.

"At SIYP we see every day how education, skills development and compassionate support can transform the trajectory of a young person's life," says Fr Francois Dufour, CEO of Salesian Institute Youth Projects.

"For more than a century, our mission has been to respond to the physical, educational and social needs of youth at risk, equipping them with practical skills, life values, and real pathways into employment and entrepreneurship."

At the heart of SIYP's work is the Learn to Live School of Skills, a registered special needs school for learners aged 14 to 18 with learning disabilities or barriers to mainstream education. The school combines adapted academics with life skills and vocational streams including electrical work, woodwork, sewing, hospitality, hairdressing, choir and marimba. The goal is clear; practical competence, independence and confidence, adds the NPO.

Beyond the classroom, the Waves of Change Maritime Programme prepares unemployed youth for entry-level maritime careers through personal development, water safety training and industry-aligned skills.

For young people not in education, employment or training, the NEETs Youth Employability Programme offers accredited courses, entrepreneurship pathways and emerging skills such as solar installation, enabling participants to transition into the workforce, says the NPO.

Complementing these initiatives, the Stitch Ahead Programme provides accredited CMT training for the textile and fabric industry and has an industrial standard micro-factory opening pathways into income generation and enterprise development. 

Together, these programmes create an inclusive, safe environment where young people regardless of background; can build resilience and sustainable futures, adds the NPO.

Established in 2023, the SIYP Marimba Band reflects the organisation's belief that empowerment extends beyond technical skills. Founded after Father François connected with Maxwell Nkala, a music mentor already training young musicians, the band was created as a platform for youth to discover and develop their talents.

SIYP Alumni, Tyrese Arendse, says, "Arriving in Year One from a difficult personal background marked by bullying and reading struggles, the transition to a smaller school environment was initially overwhelming. Yet discovering the Marimba group became a turning point. Encouraged by peers to try something new, I found in music not only joy, but purpose."

The Ryan Foundation is a key partner supporting innovation at SIYP, funding the solar training component of the NEETs Youth Employability Programme. This investment equips young people that are not in education, employment or training with practical, future-focused skills linked to the growing renewable energy sector. By supporting this specialised stream, the foundation has opened pathways into green jobs while strengthening SIYP's ability to align youth development with emerging industries and sustainable employment opportunities, says the NPO.

"In a country where youth unemployment remains one of our greatest challenges, many young people face poverty, exclusion and limited access to opportunities," says Fr Dufour.

"Through programmes such as Learn to Live School of Skills, Waves of Change, and our NEETs Youth Employability initiatives, we are not only providing training, but restoring dignity, confidence and hope. We believe that every young person deserves the chance to become a productive member of society and to build a sustainable future for themselves and their families."

He concludes that partnerships with the private sector are critical to scaling impact.

"Businesses have a powerful role to play, whether through mentorship, workplace exposure, funding, or employment pathways. When industry collaborates with organisations like ours, it creates a bridge between training and real opportunity, ensuring that young people are not left behind. Our programmes have shown that when youth are given the right tools and support, they can overcome immense barriers and contribute meaningfully to their communities."

"Ultimately, our work is about building hope and opening doors. Together with our partners, we are shaping a future where young people are empowered not just to survive, but to thrive and lead positive change in South Africa."

For more information, visit www.salesianyouth.org. You can also follow the Salesian Institute Youth Projects on Facebook, X, or on Instagram.

*Image courtesy of contributor