Green Youth Expo empowers youth with skills for a sustainable future
As South Africa celebrates Youth Month 2025 under the theme "Skills for the changing world: Empowering youth for meaningful economic participation", the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation supported the 2025 Green Youth Career Expo, which took place at the University of KwaZulu-Natal's Westville campus on 17 June 2025.
In partnership with the Green Youth Network, the expo highlighted the pivotal role of young people in building a greener, more inclusive South Africa. The event explored how green careers can fuel long-term economic growth and offered practical pathways for the participants to acquire the skills they need to thrive in this evolving sector.
The campus was a hive of activity as young learners participated in an event designed to empower them with knowledge, inspiration and skills for careers in the green economy and sustainable development.
The expo was a precursor to the 10th Annual Green Youth Indaba (GYI), scheduled for 19 and 20 June 2025 at the Durban Exhibition Centre. Under the theme "A decade of action: Driving sustainable innovation," this year's GYI reflects a strong commitment to developing local solutions to global environmental challenges, anchored by youth leadership.
Mr Linda Mthembu, Umkhomazi Circuit Manager from the Department of Basic Education, encouraged learners to embrace education, innovation and active citizenship in the face of climate change and high youth unemployment levels.
"Green Youth has stood the test of time. While many youth initiatives have faded, this movement has endured, delivering real opportunities, real skills and real hope," he said.
He reminded learners to remain committed to their goals.
"Be fully engaged. Understand what you're doing, avoid distractions, and remember –there are no shortcuts to success. It takes passion, persistence and patience."
Learners were encouraged to view the green economy not merely as a career path, but as a calling to become part of the solution to environmental degradation, unemployment and inequality.
Ms Celiwe Khanyile, Deputy Chief Education Specialist from the Pinetown Circuit, called the expo "South Africa's foremost platform for youth empowerment in sustainability". She highlighted the critical pillars that guided the discussions – water conservation, renewable energy, energy efficiency, green buildings and climate adaptation.
"These pillars promote responsible resource management and are central to a sustainable future," she noted.
Mr Phathutshedzo Raphalalani, Senior Manager for Pollution Control at eThekwini Municipality, shared his journey from rural Venda to his current leadership role, attributing his success to attending career expos and having mentors.
"Set clear goals, and actively seek out bursary and support opportunities," he advised.
Ms Bongiwe Beja-Ntsiko, Regional Programme Manager of Africa's beVisioneers: The Mercedes-Benz Fellowship, invited learners to explore the global fellowship. Open to innovators aged 16 to 28, the three-year programme supports young environmental leaders with training, mentorship and resources to bring their ideas to life.
"We amplify impact through a growing community of fellows, mentors and experts, helping to shape the environmental leaders of tomorrow," she said.
In a panel discussion, Mr Sanele Vilakazi, Project Manager at uMngeni-uThukela Water, encouraged learners to focus on mathematics, science, and geography if they want to pursue careers in water engineering and environmental management.
"South Africa needs problem solvers, especially to address our water quality and waste management challenges," he said.
Grade 10 learner, Alwande Mthembu, from Intakemazolo Combined School in Hammarsdale said the expo opened her eyes to careers aligned with her passions for sustainability, conservation and environmental science.
