Introduction
In a collaborative effort to address the digital skills gap and youth unemployment in South Africa, South African Youth Projects (SayPro) has partnered with Accenture South Africa to deliver Digital Marketing training to 50 young individuals in Johannesburg. This initiative is designed to equip participants with in-demand digital skills, empowering them to thrive in the evolving job market and digital economy.
About the Partnership
The partnership is rooted in a shared commitment to social impact and sustainable development. SayPro, known for its work in youth empowerment and skills development, joins hands with Accenture under its Skills to Succeed program — a global initiative aiming to skill millions around the world for the future of work.
“We are thrilled to partner with Accenture to bring opportunities to young people in Johannesburg who are eager to learn, grow, and contribute to the economy,” said Neftaly Malatjie, Founder and CEO of SayPro.
Why Digital Marketing?
The demand for digital marketing professionals is rising globally, especially as businesses shift to online platforms. However, access to quality digital skills training is still limited in many urban communities in South Africa. This program directly addresses that gap by offering:
- Practical, job-ready skills
- Industry-recognized tools and platforms
- Real-world projects and mentorship
- Opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship
Program Overview
The training covers a comprehensive curriculum, including:
- Introduction to Digital Marketing
- Social Media Marketing (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn)
- Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
- Google Ads & Meta Ads
- Email Marketing Campaigns
- Content Creation and Blogging
- Basic Website Management (WordPress & CMS tools)
- Analytics and Performance Tracking (Google Analytics, Meta Insights)
The course runs for 8 weeks, combining virtual learning, face-to-face workshops, and practical assignments.
Participant Profile
The program targets 50 unemployed and underemployed youth between the ages of 18 and 35, drawn from across Johannesburg, including areas such as:
- Soweto
- Hillbrow
- Alexandra
- Braamfontein
- Johannesburg South and CBD
Participants are selected through an open application process, with emphasis on inclusivity, gender balance, and representation of persons with disabilities.
Learning Experience
Participants benefit from:
- Interactive training modules
- Live sessions with Accenture experts
- Peer collaboration
- Access to SayPro’s online learning platform
- Mentorship and coaching sessions
- Job readiness workshops (interview prep, CV writing, soft skills)
Graduates receive a Certificate of Completion and are linked with job or freelance opportunities through SayPro and Accenture’s partner networks.
Early Impact and Feedback
Even before completion, many participants report increased confidence and readiness to enter the digital economy.
“Before this training, I had no idea how businesses use social media. Now I’m helping my aunt run her hair salon’s online promotions,”
— Ayanda N., participant from Hillbrow
“I’ve already secured a part-time freelance job managing a company’s Instagram. This training changed my life,”
— Tshepo M., participant from Soweto
Goals and Broader Impact
The primary goals of the initiative are to:
- Create pathways to employment and self-employment
- Improve digital literacy and inclusion
- Support the growth of small and medium businesses through digital skills
- Strengthen the economic resilience of Johannesburg communities
Future Outlook
Following the success of this Johannesburg cohort, SayPro and Accenture plan to:
- Scale the program to train 200+ youth in 2026
- Expand into other cities including Durban, Cape Town, and East London
- Introduce advanced modules (e.g., digital project management, e-commerce, data analytics)
- Establish a Digital Career Support Centre in Johannesburg for ongoing mentorship and job matching
Get Involved
SayPro welcomes support and collaboration from:
- Corporate sponsors willing to fund additional training cohorts
- Nonprofits and community groups referring potential participants
- Volunteers and mentors willing to contribute expertise
Conclusion
The partnership between SayPro and Accenture represents a meaningful investment in Johannesburg’s youth — equipping them not just with skills, but with hope, opportunity, and a future in the digital economy. This initiative proves that when public purpose and private power align, communities can transform from the inside out.
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