Junior Achievement South Africa empowers young South Africans through skills, innovation, and opportunity
For over four decades, Junior Achievement South Africa has been shaping young minds for a brighter economic future – through entrepreneurship, work readiness, and financial literacy.
In a country where unemployment stands at 33.2% and young people make up the largest share of those without jobs, hope can often feel out of reach. Yet, for thousands of South African youth, Junior Achievement (JA) South Africa has become a beacon of opportunity and empowerment.
Based in Waverley, the youth development organisation has, since 1979, equipped more than 600 000 young South Africans with practical skills in entrepreneurship, work readiness, and financial literacy – helping them turn ambition into action.
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According to Nelo Phindile Spies, Executive Director of JA South Africa, the organisation’s enduring impact lies in its ability to adapt while remaining anchored in its mission.
“Our longevity stems from a clear mission to empower young people with the skills, mindset, and confidence to shape their own futures,” said Spies. “Strong partnerships and adaptability have ensured our continued relevance for more than four decades.”
As part of the global JA Worldwide network, which operates in over 100 countries, JA South Africa draws on international best practices while tailoring its programmes to the country’s unique social and economic challenges.
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What sets JA apart is its experiential learning model. Learners don’t just study theories, they start and manage real businesses, handle finances, and learn to collaborate as teams. Programmes range from teaching primary school children the basics of money management to helping out-of-school youth launch their own enterprises.
Through partnerships with leading South African companies, the organisation brings mentorship and real-world experience into classrooms, bridging the gap between education and the workplace.
“Our goal is to empower youth everywhere, accelerate digital skills development, and partner for impact,” Spies said. “Each young person we reach is a potential changemaker shaping a better future for South Africa.”
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