In the heart of Cape Town, the Sozo Foundation is tackling one of South Africa’s most pressing issues: unemployment. Through a variety of programs centered on education, skills training, and entrepreneurship, Sozo is providing the youth of the local community with the tools they need to build better futures for themselves and their families.
In today’s interview, we sit down with Keenan from the Sozo Foundation to hear more about how the organization started, its journey, and the impact it's having on young lives. Keenan, thank you for joining us today!
How Did Sozo Foundation Start?
Keenan shared the foundation’s humble beginnings, which started with a group of individuals looking to provide hope and opportunity to the youth in the community of Vrygrond. "It all began in 2011 when [founders] Enterm Kyla and Anakayla moved from the UK to South Africa. They saw the need for support in the local community and decided to start a youth group. From there, they recognized a greater need—more structured support for young people who were struggling with skills, education, and opportunities."
What started as a youth group grew into something much larger. Sozo Foundation initially operated out of a container near a local library, with just a few employees and a small group of kids. Today, the organization is a multifaceted program dedicated to improving the lives of youth in Vrygrond and surrounding areas.
Programs and Their Impact
At the Sozo Foundation, a range of programs exists to give young people the skills they need to succeed in life. Keenan explained, “Our education program focuses on providing academic support, tutoring, and opportunities to obtain a senior certificate. This allows students to access higher education and opens doors for them academically.”
The skills program offers specialized training in areas such as barista skills, baking, and beauty therapy. These practical skills are essential for securing employment or starting their own businesses. The entrepreneurial program, known as Genesis, takes things a step further by providing business coaching, workshops, and resources to help young people start micro-businesses.
These programs don’t just stop at providing technical skills—they offer holistic support that empowers youth to thrive in every aspect of their lives.
A Powerful Success Story
When asked about success stories, Keenan immediately brought up the story of Geraldine Erasmus, one of the Sozo Foundation’s first students. “Geraldine came through the education program, completed her matric, and went on to study further. She then returned to Sozo to offer training to other students in the skills program. Today, she has started her own business, offering nail tech services in her community. She’s also returned to Sozo again, this time to provide training to the youth in her community.”
Geraldine’s story isn’t an isolated one. Many young people who walk through the doors of Sozo Foundation go on to not only improve their own lives but to give back to their community in meaningful ways.
The Road Ahead
As the Sozo Foundation looks to the future, Keenan emphasized that 2025 will be a key year for the organization. While funding remains a constant challenge, Sozo has built a resilient foundation by diversifying its funding streams. "We focus on the present with a vision for the future," Keenan said. "We don’t let financial difficulties stop us—we keep pushing forward."
Keenan also shared his personal journey within the organization, revealing that he was recently promoted to marketing manager. His vision for the future is clear: “I want to showcase the true stories of the people we work with—highlight the impact of the Sozo Foundation and the incredible transformations happening in the community.”
Advice to the Youth
In closing, Keenan shared a powerful piece of advice for young people looking to make their mark in the world: “Never let your circumstances determine your future.” This advice, grounded in his own journey with the Sozo Foundation, serves as a reminder that no matter where you come from, with determination and the right support, you can change your life and the lives of others.
The Sozo Foundation is a testament to the power of community, education, and resilience. Through its various programs, it is not only giving young people the chance to build skills but also providing them with hope for a better future. As Keenan aptly put it, “We’re not just preparing them for employment; we’re empowering them to create their own opportunities.”
If you’d like to learn more about the Sozo Foundation or get involved, be sure to visit their website or connect with them on social media. Your support could help empower the next generation of South Africa’s leaders and changemakers!
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