Despite efforts in certain quarters to paint South Africa in an increasingly bad light, we continue to choose to focus on the green shoots of possibility we’re seeing. And we’re heartened by the growth of our global network and the deepening support of corporate partners who share our vision to prepare teens to stand on their own two feet and apply their own hearts and hands to strengthen their families and communities.
While the townships they live in present our teens with far more than their share of daily challenges, and NGO funding is harder to come by than it has ever been, we’re seeing concrete progress in several key areas that can help create a stable foundation for young people to thrive.
Power Restored and Rail Transport Picks Up Speed
Remember when power outages disrupted our Net Buddies’ homework and video mentoring sessions? Those dark days are quickly receding as the national power producer, Eskom, is now delivering significantly more reliable electricity supply, with fewer and fewer periods without lights or productivity.
This transformation matters to our teens because reliable electricity means our LaunchPad computer labs can stay open, mentorship video conversations can connect consistently and they can complete their coursework without interruption. All ensuring they are better able to keep up with their classwork and prepare for their exams.
Port equipment acquisition gained significant momentum, contributing to notable performance improvements. These improvements strengthen South Africa’s ability to compete in international trade—and they already seem to be having an impact with a slightly lower unemployment rate and rising GDP in the third quarter. All of the is creating the economic growth that generates employment for first-generation college graduates like our Net Buddies.
Financial Credibility Restored
After dropping off the global list of investment-grade financial markets three years ago, when its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism mechanisms were found to be seriously deficient, South Africa has worked hard to claw back its credit ratings and restore its international credibility.
In recent months, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the S&P Global have both signalled approval for these efforts by removing South Africa from the grey list and upgrading its credit rating to BB-. Not yet where it needs to be but a very welcome uptick that will reopen doors to global investment and create increased economic opportunity for our Net Buddies.
Political Unity Strengthens
When the ANC lost its majority at the last election, in 2023, few believed South Africa’s political landscape was sufficiently mature for a coalition government to survive. Yet, 16 months on – despite the odds and considerable challenges – the Government of National Unity (GNU) continues to hold.
After a recent strategy session to address unemployment, hunger, corruption, crime, and formulate a way forward for economic growth and jobs, they committed to develop a comprehensive strategy for skills development and creation of work experience and livelihood opportunities for young people.
A focus on youth employment that directly impacts our Net Buddies who deserve a stable political environment that can deliver them job opportunities after graduation.
What This Means For Our Net Buddies
In the 19 years since Infinite Family was established, 95% of the teens on our program have qualified for advanced education. Your mentoring and financial support doesn’t just transform their individual lives. It equips them to contribute to their country’s progress.
- Every video conversation teaches communication skills.
- Every study session keeps a teen in school.
- Every LaunchPad log-on develops the tech literacy these improvements demand.
Together, we’re building resilience, resourcefulness, and responsibility in young South Africans who will lead their communities forward!
Thank you, again, from the bottom of our hearts for being part of our Infinite Family.
