Africa Takes the Lead: South Africa Launches Historic Y20 Presidency in Johannesburg

In a landmark moment for youth diplomacy and African leadership, South Africa officially launched its presidency of the Youth 20 (Y20) at a high-profile event held at the historic Rand Club in Johannesburg. This marks the first time South Africa has assumed leadership of the Y20—the official youth engagement group of the G20—ushering in a bold new era under the rallying cry: “This is Africa’s Y20!”

A Platform for Global Youth Voices

The launch event brought together over 200 in-person delegates, including young leaders, government officials, civil society representatives, media, and members of the diplomatic corps. With more than 800 applications received, the event also welcomed a large virtual audience, reflecting the growing global interest in youth-led change.

Raymond Matlala, Chair of Y20 South Africa, set the tone for the year ahead:

“This is not just South Africa’s Y20—this is Africa’s Y20. We aim to work with youth groups across Africa to uphold this presidency with inclusivity and integrity.”

Five Bold Priorities for 2025

South Africa’s Y20 Presidency will focus on five transformative themes:

Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability
Green Horizons: Leading a Just Energy Transition
Inclusive Economic Growth and Employment
Pathways to Prosperity
AI, Digital Innovation, Education, and the Future of Work
Innovate to Elevate: Building Skills for Tomorrow
Meaningful Youth Engagement and Reforming Multilateralism
For a Just Future
Inclusive Social Development and Fighting Inequality
Leaving No One Behind

These themes reflect a commitment to building a youth-driven, people-centered agenda rooted in equality, solidarity, and sustainability.

Setting the Stage for Global Impact

Levy Singh, Y20 South Africa Sherpa, emphasized the broader vision:

“This launch repositions youth diplomacy and African leadership on the world stage. We are setting the tone for bold, accountable, and actionable youth policy.”

Key initiatives announced include:

Creation of a Y20 Sherpas Council to institutionalize youth participation in G20 processes.
Establishment of a Y20 Alumni Network to leverage the experience of past delegates.
Implementation of a systemic review to monitor and enhance youth engagement across the G20.

What’s Next?

The Y20 SA team will now roll out its working group programs, national consultations, regional dialogues, and thematic forums. These efforts will culminate in the co-creation of the official South African Y20 Communiqué, to be presented at the Y20 Summit in August.

Follow the Journey: