SayPro CEO Neftaly Malatjie Accepts Invitation to Join Ithute Financial Literacy Programme for Diepsloot Youth

Johannesburg – June 2025
In a significant development for youth empowerment in one of Gauteng’s most underserved areas, Neftaly Malatjie, CEO of the South African Youth Project (SayPro), has formally accepted an invitation to participate in the Ithute Financial Literacy Programme. The initiative is focused on improving financial knowledge and economic resilience among young people living in Diepsloot.

The Ithute Programme—aptly named from the Sesotho word meaning “learn”—aims to break cycles of poverty by equipping youth with the tools and knowledge needed to manage their finances, build savings, avoid debt traps, and pursue entrepreneurial ventures. The partnership with SayPro marks a strategic move to leverage experienced voices in youth development for greater reach and impact.

A Shared Vision for Youth Empowerment

Speaking at the announcement, Neftaly Malatjie emphasized the importance of collective action in addressing systemic challenges:

“Our communities are filled with untapped potential. What’s lacking is access—access to information, resources, and real-world skills like financial literacy. I’m proud to stand with Ithute and the young people of Diepsloot to change that narrative. This partnership reflects SayPro’s ongoing mission to empower youth with knowledge that leads to lasting change.”

SayPro, under Malatjie’s leadership, has become one of the most impactful youth development organisations in South Africa, offering services in over 180 communities nationwide. From job readiness training to entrepreneurship development, SayPro is recognized for its practical, action-based approach to social change.

Reaching the Heart of Diepsloot

Diepsloot, home to over 350,000 residents, has long faced challenges related to unemployment, informal housing, and limited access to quality education. Youth in the area are particularly vulnerable to economic exclusion, with many lacking the financial tools needed to build secure futures.

The Ithute Financial Literacy Programme is tailored specifically to the realities of township life. Through a series of interactive workshops, digital resources, peer mentorship, and community-based events, participants will learn:

• How to open and manage a bank account
• The basics of budgeting and saving
• Understanding credit, loans, and interest rates
• How to start and run a micro-enterprise
• Digital financial tools and mobile banking

Building Sustainable Impact

The inclusion of SayPro and Malatjie not only boosts the credibility of the programme but also extends its reach, enabling integration with SayPro’s national platforms, mentorship network, and digital learning tools.

According to programme coordinator Themba Mazibuko, the partnership is a game-changer:

“Mr. Malatjie brings not just expertise, but inspiration. His journey—from growing up in similar conditions to leading a nationally recognized organization—will resonate deeply with the youth. This isn’t just about teaching people to save money; it’s about helping them believe in their capacity to change their lives.”

The Ithute Programme expects to enroll at least 500 youth from Diepsloot in its pilot phase, with ambitions to expand to other townships in Gauteng and beyond by 2026. Regular progress monitoring, impact assessments, and success stories will be documented to guide future rollout.

Get Involved

The Ithute Financial Literacy Programme invites schools, local businesses, non-profits, and volunteers to contribute to this growing movement. Whether through mentoring, donations, or awareness campaigns, the goal is to create a supportive ecosystem for young people to thrive financially and socially.

For more information or to get involved, please visit www.saypro.online