Learn about our mission, vision, and the team behind Thokoza Progressive Youth.
Thokoza Progressive Youth (TPY) is a youth development organisation that empowers youth from underprivileged socio-economic backgrounds through initiating sustainable projects that holistically assist in skills development, education and training, poverty alleviation and enterprise development. It strives to achieve this in partnership with strategic stakeholders
To be a number one leader and facilitator for progressive youth development and a partner of choice for our stakeholders in developing sustainable and reliable human capital.
At Thokoza Progressive Youth (TPY), we believe that meaningful youth development begins with the person, not just the skill. That's why we offer a holistic, blended model of training, education, and character development designed to transform disadvantaged youth into resilient, purpose-driven leaders.
We start at the core—with our Concourse-Based Personal Development programme. This foundational journey builds a strong inner character, instilling resilience, emotional intelligence, and a growth mindset. We don't just prepare students for jobs—we prepare them for life. Personal development is not an add-on; it is the heart of our training philosophy, because we understand the unique challenges faced by youth from marginalised communities.
Our training continues with high-standard, internationally accredited ICT and skills-based programmes that level the playing field and open doors to global opportunities. By subscribing to the highest certification standards, we ensure our learners are not just trained—they are competitive, capable, and confident in any setting.
At Thokoza Progressive Youth (TPY), impact is not just measured in numbers—it's written in the lives we've transformed.
Since 2008, we've trained over 25,000 young people in accredited digital and technical skills.
Facilitated job placements, internships, and business opportunities for hundreds of graduates.
Rewired the thinking of youth from hopelessness to possibility, building resilience and purpose.
Connected disadvantaged youth to global-standard certifications and tools—closing the opportunity gap.
Built a culture of leadership, discipline, and social responsibility through our Progressive Personal Development programme.
Witnessed school dropouts become tech-savvy entrepreneurs and helped young people find their voice and confidence.
24 November 2008 - Thokoza Progressive Youth (TPY) is founded as a bold response to the growing need for youth development in Thokoza.
23 March 2009 - TPY is officially launched, marking the beginning of a community-driven journey focused on empowering township youth.
Relocated to Grinacker Skills Centre and began delivering hands-on training in Fitting and Turning, Boilermaking, Small Business Management, and Life Skills. Partnered with Old Mutual to launch the Financial Literacy Programme.
First TPY Computer Lab Established at Thokoza Youth Centre. Trained 100+ youth in Basic End User Computing.
Partnership with T-Systems placed over 50 young people in ICT learnerships—introducing real career pathways in technology.
First group of students complete the International Computer Driving Licence (ICDL) programme. Accredited with CompTIA as an authorised training provider.
Became a Cisco Networking Academy—expanding capacity to deliver world-class ICT training.
Nominated for the CompTIA Southern Africa Awards—TPY's impact in tech education receives formal recognition at a national level.
Accredited with Open Edge, strengthening personal development and leadership training pathways.
Nominated again for the CompTIA Southern Africa Awards—maintaining leadership position in youth-focused digital training and innovation.
The dedicated Stakeholders who make our work possible
We are grateful for our team of over 50 dedicated volunteers who contribute their time and skills to make our programs successful.
Become a Volunteer