2026–2027 cohort
The Y-TOPP programme runs from July 2026 to July 2027 — a full twelve-month journey with the same cohort throughout, rather than a short course.
Starts
July 2026
Ends
July 2027
Length
12 months
Phase 1
The year opens with self-confidence, resilience and personal development sessions — self-awareness, identity, mindset, communication and goal setting. Young people build the inner foundation before they step into their placement.
Phase 2
Participants spend three days a week placed in our two partner schools — Bongani Primary School and Sokhanyo Primary School in Gugulethu — working with the same cohort throughout. They gain real experience, workplace behaviour, exposure to an education setting and a professional reference for the future.
Phase 3
The other two days are spent in the Y-TOPP workshop: employability skills, digital and financial literacy, entrepreneurship, career pathways, mentorship and reflection on what they are learning at work.
Phase 4
Each young person is supported according to the pathway they have chosen, with continued guidance and practical assistance towards their next step.
Support to explore, develop and strengthen business ideas and connect to relevant entrepreneurship opportunities.
Workplace readiness, job applications, referrals and connections to employment opportunities.
Guidance on suitable institutions and programmes, completing applications, meeting requirements and navigating the transition into tertiary education.
Individual pathway planning, referrals, mentorship and follow-up so young people stay engaged and progress towards their chosen destination.
After twelve months with Y-TOPP, every participant leaves with a next step: employment, further education or their own enterprise.
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Step 5