Philasande Helps Youth Thrive

In the township of Emzinoni, in Bethal, many young people face a difficult reality. Unemployment is high, opportunities are limited, and for some families, daily life is defined by uncertainty and survival.

It was in response to these challenges that Philasande NGO was founded in 2018 by Sophie Mahlangu. Her vision was simple but powerful: to create opportunities for young people to gain experience, contribute to their communities, and rebuild a sense of purpose.

As an implementing partner of NACOSA in the Social Employment Fund programme, Philasande is part of a wider national effort to tackle unemployment. The Social Employment Fund is a government initiative that supports organisations to create job opportunities that also benefit communities. It brings together different partners to create work that makes a real difference. 

From the beginning, Philasande focused on engaging unemployed auxiliary nurses and young people, offering them opportunities to volunteer and gain practical experience in community-based services. This includes door to door outreach and HIV Testing Services, to bring essential health services closer to people who need them most.

The organisation’s work goes far beyond healthcare. In communities across the Govan Mbeki Municipality, many families face extreme poverty, displacement, and reliance on social assistance. These conditions create a cycle that is difficult to break, especially for young people with limited access to employment. 

Philasande is working to change that, and through the Social Employment Fund programme, the organisation has created at least 43 job opportunities for young people, bringing renewed hope to their families and providing a source of income.

The programme has brought hope to many young people by removing them from the streets and engaging them in meaningful and productive activities,” says Mahlangu.

Philasande is also strengthening partnerships across sectors. The organisation partners with key stakeholders such as the Department of Health, Social Development, and community safety structures, so that services are better aligned and reach people in need.

Even though things are improving, the demand for support remains high. Many families are still facing difficult circumstances, and more people are in need of help. The Philasande team remains committed to supporting the community with honesty, dedication, and compassion, and to ensuring that no one is left behind.

We would be truly grateful if the Social Employment Fund Programme could be extended,” Mahlangu adds. “This would allow us to continue and expand this impactful work.”