To every young South African reading this, whether you are still hustling to find a job, studying, running your own small business, freelancing, or just starting out in your first formal job, this article is for you.
June is Youth Month. We remember the 1976 generation who rose up for education and justice. But the struggle of today looks different. Now, it is the battle to stay hopeful in the face of unemployment. It is the fight to build a future when it feels like the odds are stacked against you. It’s the stress of making R2 500 stretch across transport, data, black tax, and dreams.
But here is the truth: you are not powerless. There is still something you can do. Something you can learn. Something you can build.
Let’s talk about it.
1. If You are Unemployed: You Still Have Value.
Unemployment can chip away at your confidence. But hear this, you are still capable, smart, and worthy of a future.
Here are some things you can do:
Learn for free online: Sites like Coursera, YouTube, and LinkedIn Learning offer free courses. Start small, learn Excel, basic budgeting, or even how to create a CV that stands out.
Start a hustle: It does not have to be fancy. Babysitting, being a water/waitress, tutoring, washing cars, selling snacks, whatever skill you have, there is someone who needs it. And you are gaining experience and confidence along the way.
Know your numbers: If you have a hustle, even with little or no income, tracking your spending shows you where your money goes. Write it down. Know it. That is the first step to financial control.
2. If You are Employed: Build, Don’t Just Spend.
Getting your first pay cheque feels amazing but also overwhelming. It is easy to celebrate too hard and end up broke two weeks in.
Here is what you can do differently:
Budget like your future depends on it because it does. Use a basic 50/30/20 rule:
50% needs, 30% wants, 20% savings or debt repayments.
Save something, anything. Even R50 a month is a win. Build an emergency fund. Your future self will thank you.
Avoid lifestyle inflation. Just because you earn more doesn’t mean you must spend more. Keep your expenses stable and grow your savings.
Say “no” with love. You will be asked to help family and friends. Help where you can but also protect your own future. Boundaries are not selfish, they are survival.
3. Get Smart with Debt
Debt is not always bad, but bad debt is. Before signing for store cards, phones, or personal loans, ask:
- Can I afford the full monthly payment plus interest?
- Is this something I need or just want?
- Am I using debt to impress, escape, or survive?
Rather start with building credit slowly, like a credit card with a small limit. Use it for fuel or groceries. Pay it off in full every month. That’s how you build a clean credit record.
4. Your Mindset is Your Real Currency
Even if your bank account is empty, your mind can still be rich.
Surround yourself with people who want to grow, people who talk about ideas, not just gossip.
Read books about money. Start with Rich Dad, Poor Dad, or follow South African financial influencers who teach in relatable ways.
Ask for help. There is no shame in learning.
5. You Are the Legacy
You are the generation that carries both struggle and possibility. Yes, it is hard. Yes, the system is unfair. But you cannot give up.
Youth Month is not just a history lesson; it is a call to action.
You don’t have to have it all figured out today. You just need to take one step. One decision. One goal. Whether it is saving R100, applying for a learnership, saying no to bad debt, or writing down your dreams, it all counts.
You Matter. You are not behind. You are not a failure. You are not alone.
You are a builder. A dreamer. A solution. South Africa needs your ideas, your energy, your resilience. We see you. We celebrate you.
Happy Youth Month. Keep going. Your story is still being written.
Created by: Vuledzani Gloria Dangale, CFP® PROFESSIONAL
To achieve your financial goals and secure a brighter future, it’s essential to seek guidance from a financial professional. They can provide you with personalised advice and strategies to help you save effectively and plan for a prosperous tomorrow. Take the first step towards financial success by visiting Find a Financial Professional today. Go to https://fpimymoney123.co.za/find-a-financial-planner/. Your future self will thank you!