This week, we celebrated World NGO day. NGOs/NPOs play such a critical part in advocating change for environmental regulations, social programmes, and good governance. Their impact is huge, shaping the very essence of society and sparking transformation all around the world. In this week’s blog we will cover the importance of NGOs/NPOs in South Africa and how YES as an NPO impacts social transformation.
The importance of NGOs/NPOs in South Africa
Strategic broad-based black economic empowerment (B-BBEE; also known as BEE) management offers business immediate and long-term benefits for those companies willing to embrace it with a holistic and innovative mindset. Good B-BBEE standing can open the door to new clients, contracts and funding opportunities and build a future-focused economic environment by helping address the socio-economic and structural inequalities (read our blog on the role B-BBEE plays in transformation here).
Is YES a part of the B-BBEE scorecard?
In South Africa, NGOs/NPOs are at the forefront of addressing the nation's most pressing issues, ranging from poverty and inequality to healthcare, education, and unemployment, especially among the youth. With over 200,000 NGOs/NPOs operating in the country, according to the Kagiso Trust, these entities serve as game changers, becoming the second-largest employer after the government, as highlighted by the Department of Higher Education and Training.
NGOs/NPOs play a vital role in filling gaps where government resources may be insufficient or inaccessible. In a country marked by socioeconomic disparities, NGOs/NPOs often serve as beacons of hope, offering support and resources to marginalised communities. Whether providing access to healthcare services in rural areas, advocating for human rights, or creating youth jobs, these organisations are instrumental in driving progress and fostering inclusive development.
One of the most significant contributions of NGOs/NPOs in South Africa is their focus on empowering communities. Through various initiatives, NGOs/NPOs work alongside local residents to identify needs, develop sustainable solutions, and build capacity for long-term growth. From skills training programmes to community-led development projects, these efforts not only address immediate challenges but also empower individuals to take control of their futures.
The Youth Employment Service (YES): Innovating solutions for youth employment
The Youth Employment Service (YES) leads the charge through innovative solutions to combat youth unemployment. YES has collaborated with 22 vetted implementation partners, predominantly NGOs/NPOs, to provide young people with employment opportunities through the turnkey solution. If corporates cannot place youth in their own organisation, they have the option to place them within one of our host partners. Through this partnership model, businesses can contribute to youth job creation while simultaneously advancing their social impact initiatives.
The turnkey solution enables corporates to align their efforts with environmental, social, and governmental (ESG) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) reporting, thereby maximising their impact. By leveraging resources and aligning strategies, NGOs/NPOs and corporates can drive sustainable change and pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future.
The benefits of this approach extend far beyond job creation. By working with NGOs/NPOs operating in high-impact sectors, youth are empowered to make meaningful contributions to their communities. For instance, NGOs/NPOs such as Conservation SA, Youth@Work, and Afrika Tikkun provide youth with opportunities to work in a range of different sectors like the green economy, education and IT, to build not only their careers but their communities as well.
Moreover, the turnkey solution addresses spatial inequality by ensuring that youth, particularly women, can access employment opportunities without having to relocate, fostering local economic development. Through partnerships with organisations like the Africa Foundation and Edunova, YES is creating avenues for youth to engage in conservation efforts and enhance digital literacy, furthering the goals of both corporates and communities.
Support NGOs/NPOs beyond job creation with YES
Unlock tax benefits and transform lives with YES. There is a way to make a difference while optimising your tax strategy through supporting YES, a registered public benefit organisation. By donating to the YES Hubs, you not only contribute to empowering youth but also reduce your tax liability.
With YES, you can donate up to 10% of your taxable earnings to a YES Hub and receive a section 18A certificate, enabling you to claim deductions on your taxes. Take a step towards creating a positive impact while maximising your tax benefits.
To learn more about how your contribution can make a difference, click here.
Paving the way for a more inclusive future
The collaboration between NGOs/NPOs and corporates presents a promising pathway towards economic transformation. By leveraging resources and aligning strategies, they can drive sustainable change and pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future. Join YES today to affirm your commitment to empowering youth, transforming communities, and changing the game by building a better tomorrow for all.
Calculate your target today and co-create a future that works for all.
For more information on registering for and completing the YES programme, click here.
Amendment to the Gazette