8.9 Million South African Youth Face a Skills Gap

Millions of young South Africans are locked out of the economy due to educational deficits, creating a cycle of hopelessness. People Upliftment Programme (POPUP) provides a pathway to change that. Since 1998, our core purpose has been to Shape Talent for Lasting Impact.

Our model is designed to take individuals on a journey from Hopelessness to Hope by restoring dignity, equipping them with relevant skills, and empowering them to contribute positively to society.

The impact of this approach is clear and measurable. For every R1 invested in our programmes, we create R3.21 in life-changing educational value. In 2024 alone, we trained 747 learners and placed 231 into jobs, a 129% increase from the previous year.

This is the story of Tshegofatso Mathabela, who said: “I was hopeless and gave up on life until POPUP. I am proud to have completed my security skill and being offered a learnership… There is still hope.”

Building on this momentum, we are expanding our mission to serve 10,000 people annually by 2028, igniting a rising tide of change that lifts lives far beyond our sight.

Explore the full story of our work in our 2025 Annual Impact Report.