Press releases

On 16 June, South Africa commemorates Youth Day, a moment of national reflection on the vital role young people play in shaping society and driving progress. The day honours the courage and determination of the youth of 1976, who stood against discrimination and injustice. As the country marks the 50th anniversary of this historic moment, its message of resilience, courage, and the pursuit of equality continue to resonate universally.

At Thungela, we recognise that supporting and empowering young people is a social responsibility that extends across all the regions in which we operate. As a global business, we are intentional about investing in the potential of youth by creating meaningful opportunities for them to learn, grow, and thrive.

This Youth Month serves as a reminder of the critical role young people play in addressing complex challenges such as inequality, unemployment, and social transformation. Their energy, innovation, and fresh perspectives are essential to building a more inclusive and sustainable future.

Lesego Mataboge, executive head of human resources, says: “Youth empowerment is central to building a sustainable and future-ready organisation. At Thungela, we are committed to creating pathways that enable young people to develop their skills, gain meaningful experience, and realise their full potential. By investing in youth today, we are shaping a stronger, more resilient workforce and contributing to the long-term growth of the communities where we operate.”

Thungela’s key youth-focused initiatives reflect this commitment:

• Professionals in Training (PIT) Programme: equipping graduates with practical, on-the-job experience and structured development to accelerate career growth
• Bursary Programme: supporting academically deserving students by improving access to higher education
• Internship Programme: providing valuable workplace exposure and bridging the gap between academic learning and professional environments

In addition, initiatives such as Take a Child to Work Day offer young people a firsthand glimpse into the world of work, helping to inspire career aspirations and broaden their horizons.

Together, these programmes demonstrate Thungela’s belief that investing in youth creates long-term value – not only for young people themselves, but also for our business, communities, and the broader global economy.

As we reflect on the legacy of those who came before us, we reaffirm our commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders, innovators and change-makers across South Africa, Australia, and Dubai.

By continuing to inspire, develop, and uplift young people, we contribute to building a future where their success becomes the foundation of shared progress.

ENDS