2026 — our own evidence
The programme as it unfolded
Real pictures from our sessions in Gugulethu — the young people, the guests who shared their journeys, and the organisations that brought opportunities into the room.
Sessions and moments
Pathsetting group session
The 2026 cohort together with facilitators after a Pathsetting session at the Gugulethu venue.
The 2026 Y-TOPP cohort
The full group at a Y-TOPP session — young people from Gugulethu working on their next step together.
Gugs in Ten Years
A group presenting their community vision: health, schools, safe communities, youth leadership and business.
My Journey to Success
Participants presenting their personal journey maps — where they are now and where they are going.
Workshop in progress
Working through worksheets and reflections during a Y-TOPP workshop session.
Pathsetting at work
Participants working through their pathsetting worksheets — mapping strengths, options and next steps.
Guest speaker: Dr Vena
Dr Vena joined the cohort to share his own journey and answer questions about studying and working in healthcare.
Zimi Mankayi speaking to the cohort
Zimi Mankayi, a biotechnician, addressing the young people about her own studies and career path.
Andiswa Mazoko motivating the cohort
Andiswa Mazoko — an occupational therapist and counsellor from the township — sharing her own journey with the young people.
Y-TOPP programme lead
Behind the programme — planning and coordinating the 2026 sessions at the Y-TOPP space.
In their own words
Before Y-TOPP I didn't know what I wanted to do next. Now I have a better idea of where I want to go.
Y-TOPP gave me guidance and support to start my own business. I am unemployed, and want to make a living for myself and my family. Now I am empowered and confident.
Baseline videos
Sibahle and other participants recorded baseline reflection videos at the start of the programme. Send us those video files and we will add them here with their names.
Guests who shared their journey
Zimi Mankayi
Biotechnician
One of the young academic professionals from the community who came to encourage the Y-TOPP youth. Close in age to the participants, she spoke openly about her challenges and journey.
Read full profile →Andiswa Mazoko
Occupational therapist and counsellor
A professional from the township who came to motivate the Y-TOPP youth and speak about her own career journey.
Read full profile →Dr Vena
Medical doctor, Gugulethu
Shared his own path from the community into medicine and what it takes to get there.
Read full profile →Professionals, academics and organisations from Gugulethu and beyond joined our sessions to present opportunities, bursaries and support available to young people. Tell us who else to credit and we will add them.
Who collaborated with us in 2026
The Angel Network
Support and resources for the cohort.
Zlto
Skills development and opportunity pathways.
SEDFA
Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency — entrepreneurship support and information for young people.
PATHSETTING
Pathsetting sessions helping participants map their next steps.
WORTH
Make your money matter — financial literacy and money confidence for young people.
Usiba Loluntu
Community youth development collaboration.
AMANDLA Gugulethu Safe Hub
Safe venue and youth programme support in Gugulethu.