Youth Day 2025: Empowering young people for meaningful economic participation

June is Youth Month in South Africa to recognise the important role that young people played in the battle against apartheid, especially during the Soweto Uprising of 1976. The uprising, organised by brave students who were protesting against unfairness in the education system, was a turning point in the country's fight for freedom. June 16 was named National Youth Day in honour of their sacrifice when democracy began in 1994. It is a day of memory, but also a day of regeneration and a promise to give today's youth more influence.

The United Nations in South Africa was delighted to be a part of the national celebrations at the NWU Rec Farm Stadium in Potchefstroom, JB Marks Local Municipality, North West Province, for this year's Youth Day. The 2025 theme, "Skills for the Changing World—Empowering the Youth for Meaningful Economic Participation," was all about giving young people the tools they need to succeed in a global market that is changing quickly.

“On Youth Day 2025, we pay tribute to the courage of past generations and celebrate the creativity, resilience, and agency of today’s young people. As a generation with unlimited potential, youth are not merely participants in our collective progress — they are co-creators of a more inclusive, sustainable, and just future. It is our shared responsibility to build a world that reflects and honours their vision.” — Nelson Muffuh, United Nations Resident Coordinator in South Africa

People of all ages enjoyed taking part in an interactive SDG quiz at the UN booth. This tested their knowledge and got people talking about global goals and local action. It was great to see so many motivated people learning how they can help make the world a better place for everyone.

RCO, UNDP, and FAO were part of the #YouthExpo as part of the larger UN South Africa team that connected young people with tools and opportunities for equitable economic growth. The Expo was a lively place where young people were not just beneficiaries of development; they were also seen as active actors and future leaders.

UNDP produced its digital skills program From the Margins to the Mainstream: Bridging the Digital Divide for an Inclusive Economy, which is helping young people become ready for the future of employment. Stories like those of Larinttia and Refentse, who are using their digital skills to create actual jobs, show how effective focused, youth-centered programs can be. 

Youth Day 2025 is still a significant day of reflection, celebration, and inspiration. The UN in South Africa seeks to support young people reach their goals and provide platforms where they may lead with confidence and purpose. Together, we can shape a future where every young person has the skills and support to live a meaningful life.