Sheshegu Community Hall in Raymond Mhlaba Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa, was filled with the energy and enthusiasm of young people.

On June 4, the International WeLoveU Foundation (WeLoveU) and South Africa’s Department of Social Development (DSD) co-hosted the Eastern Cape Youth Career & Services Expo to strengthen the self-reliance and future readiness of vulnerable youth across the Eastern Cape. Young people from rural communities with limited opportunities to plan for their future attended the event and rediscovered dreams they had long held in their hearts.

Rural Youth Facing Poverty, Unemployment, and Limited Opportunities

More than half of young people in the Eastern Cape are unemployed, while many households across the province rely on government social grants. The situation is even more challenging in rural and outlying areas such as the small town of Dikeni. Compared with major cities, these communities lack adequate infrastructure, leaving young people with limited access to basic career information, job training, and other opportunities to develop the skills they need for the future. As a result, many struggle to find a clear career path even after graduating from school, putting them at risk of social isolation and trapping them in a cycle of intergenerational poverty.

To address these challenges, the South African government established the National Youth Policy 2020–2030 to expand young people’s economic and social participation. However, limited social welfare budgets make it difficult for support to reach every community in need. In response, South Africa’s Department of Social Development invited WeLoveU to Parliament and proposed co-hosting an event to strengthen the self-reliance and future readiness of young people in rural communities.

Eastern Cape Youth Career & Services Expo for Youth Empowerment, Hosted by WeLoveU and the Department of Social Development

On June 4, the Eastern Cape Youth Career & Services Expo was held at Sheshegu Community Hall to support a brighter future for young people. More than 300 people attended, including the Deputy Minister of Social Development, officials from various government departments, representatives from educational, financial, and private-sector organizations, WeLoveU members, local residents, students, and teachers.

Mogamad Ganief Ebrahim Hendricks, Deputy Minister of Social Development, explained that the event formed part of an integrated welfare model mandated by the President. In line with this approach, officials from the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) helped young people obtain IDs, which are essential for accessing employment, public services, and other opportunities. Experts from a wide range of sectors, including the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), the National Development Agency (NDA), financial institutions, major corporations, and TVET Colleges, came together under one roof to support young people. The Mayor of Raymond Mhlaba Municipality and local community chiefs also attended, offering encouragement and administrative support to local youth. At the event, young people were able to access information on further education, employment opportunities, and financial literacy all in one place.

WeLoveU also delivered a motivational message that resonated with the young people and supported the event by providing supplies and on-site guidance. WeLoveU members worked throughout the venue, helping ensure that the event ran safely and smoothly behind the scenes.

Baek Eun-seon, Head of the WeLoveU Cape Town Chapter, offered heartfelt words of encouragement for the young people’s future, helping build their confidence and inspiring them to take on new challenges.

“I want you to know that you are never alone and that your dreams truly matter. We are here to support you on your journey. I sincerely hope we can help young people dream bigger, reach their full potential, and grow into strong leaders who will shape the future.”

Baek Eun-seon, Head of the WeLoveU Cape Town Chapter

The attendees responded with warm applause to WeLoveU’s compassionate and inclusive message, as well as to the government’s encouragement and support for local young people.

Donation of Educational Supplies

Considering the Eastern Cape’s growing vulnerability to severe winter cold associated with climate change, WeLoveU presented young people with warm blankets and tumblers.

Deputy Minister Hendricks of the Department of Social Development expressed strong support for WeLoveU’s message of a mother’s love, noting, “At a recent Cabinet meeting, the President highlighted stronger family relationships as one of the solutions to many of the challenges facing the country.” He added, “Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah, who puts love into action through good deeds, is truly a person of deep compassion. I am very pleased that people in Korea have shown such care and concern for a small community here in South Africa.”

Teachers and students were also deeply moved by the event.

“Today’s event was a wonderful outing and a truly special experience for the children. They come from different backgrounds, and some live in very difficult circumstances. That is what makes this event all the more meaningful, as it brings light and hope to their lives and futures. The children were excited, singing songs and enjoying the opportunity to meet WeLoveU members from different countries. It was a wonderful experience that gave them the chance to see and learn something new.”

Zikhona Mzamo, Teacher at Masivuyiswe Junior Secondary School

“WeLoveU gave me a tumbler and a blanket. I’m going to take them to school and show my friends. I’ll also tell them to focus more on their schoolwork, not to bully others, and to speak kindly to one another.”

Student Participant

We hope that the small wave of change that began in a marginalized rural community in the Eastern Cape will grow into a powerful light of hope, brightening the future of young people across South Africa. WeLoveU will continue working with governments and organizations around the world to provide tailored support that helps young people pursue their dreams.