YD Co-Lab Annual Summit 2026 - Shifting the Needle: Collective Action for Sustainable Youth Pathways

Shifting the Needle: Collective Action for Sustainable Youth Pathways

What will it take to build stronger, more connected and sustainable pathways for young people in South Africa?

Across the country, organisations, institutions and individuals are working to expand opportunities for young people. Yet fragmented efforts, disconnected systems and persistent barriers continue to limit the impact we can achieve collectively.

The YD Co-Lab Annual Summit 2026 brings together approximately 100–120 decision-makers, practitioners and ecosystem leaders for a day of meaningful dialogue, shared learning and collaborative action.

This year's Summit is focused on developing a shared understanding of South Africa's youth development landscape, identifying opportunities for greater alignment and laying the groundwork for collective action that continues beyond the event.

What to expect

• Cross-sector dialogue: Engage with leaders from youth development organisations, government, funding institutions, the private sector, academia and other key sectors.
• Solution Labs: Participate in facilitated, interactive sessions exploring challenges, opportunities and practical approaches to strengthening youth pathways.
• Meaningful connections: Build relationships with organisations and institutions working across the ecosystem.
• A foundation for action: Contribute insights and perspectives that can inform continued collaboration and coordinated efforts after the Summit.

Who should attend?

The Summit is intended for decision-makers, organisational leaders, practitioners, funders, policymakers, researchers, private-sector representatives, youth-led organisations and other stakeholders contributing to sustainable youth pathways.

Be part of shaping what comes next.

With limited places available, the Summit is intentionally designed to create space for meaningful engagement and purposeful connections.

Date: Friday, 6 November 2026

Venue: 92 Empire Rd, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, Professional Development Hub Building

General Admission: R300

YD Co-Lab Members: Discounted tickets available

Summit Strategic Partners: Trevor Noah Foundation | Canva Africa | University of the Witwatersrand

Advancing Youth Development Through Collaboration.