Internships that became careers
In 2019 the centre helped six unemployed young people secure internships on a veterinary programme in Russia. They have since been hired on a permanent basis.
Registered NPO · Youth Development Centre
Helping the youth of Nkomazi West learn, work and lead.
Since 2008, Nkomazi Youth in Action has given young people in Schoemansdal and the surrounding villages access to information, computer skills, training and mentoring, so they can develop themselves and realise their potential.
Registered NPO No. 059-435
Open to youth aged 14 to 35
Supported by the Mpumalanga Department of Social Development
1,200young people targeted each year
Since 2008serving Nkomazi West
2008Serving Nkomazi West since
1,200Youth targeted every year
4,600Youth trained in basic computer skills
5,000+Youth helped to apply for tertiary study
What we do
Practical support for every stage of a young person's journey.
From finding information to starting a business, our programmes are built around what young people in Nkomazi West actually need.
Access to information
Relevant, up-to-date information made available to young people, so they can act on opportunities when they appear.
Learn moreComputer and internet services
Youth mentors assist and guide young people, and support self-help, on the centre's computers.
Learn moreSkills development
Accredited and non-accredited training, delivered through partnerships with other stakeholders.
Learn moreEntrepreneurship
Training through partnerships, plus practical referrals to help young people start and formalise a business.
Learn moreJob preparation
Practical preparation so young job seekers are ready to apply, interview and present themselves well.
Learn moreLife skills and outreach
Life skills workshops, mentoring and community awareness campaigns on the issues young people face.
Learn more
Our story
Started by young people, for young people.
Nkomazi Youth in Action began in 2008, when the youth of Schoemansdal mobilised and recruited one another to tackle the challenges facing their community: unemployment, lack of skills, lack of information, HIV/AIDS, teenage pregnancy and substance abuse.
Today the centre is the main youth hub for Schoemansdal and its neighbouring villages, and it welcomes young people at every stage: in school, out of school, unemployed, employed or already in business.
- Career guidance, job preparation and referrals
- Computer and internet services with mentor support
- Accredited training through trusted partners
Where we work
Serving eleven communities in Nkomazi West.
The centre exists to meet the developmental needs of young people in these villages and their neighbours.
SchoemansdalJeppes ReefBuffelspruitDrikoppiesMiddelplasSchuzendalMagogeniBoschfonteinAnivaLangeloopKamhlushwa
Real results
What our work looks like in practice.
Accredited training, close to home
Through Atvance Academy, 128 young people are enrolling in free, accredited NQF Level 2 training in IT and Business Administration, and 61 more completed mobile digital literacy training with Mpumalanga Colab.
Growing young entrepreneurs
Hundreds of young people have attended NYDA entrepreneurship training at the centre, and in 2025 one of its beneficiaries was funded by NYDA with four pigs (two male and two female).
Help us build a permanent home for youth development.
Our two most urgent needs are a permanent hall that seats at least 100 people, and flushing toilets that are accessible to people living with disabilities. Partners, donors and volunteers make this work possible.