BY PHUMELELE GAMEDZE (INTERN)
MBABANE– A young university graduate from Limkokwing University of Creative Technology, Siphamandla Dlamini, saw frustrated jobless peers and started a non profit to teach entrepreneurship and life skills to students.
What began as a response to a harsh reality facing many graduates has since evolved into Youth Link Eswatini, a youth-led organization dedicated to empowering young people through education, mentorship, and practical skills development. Dlamini’s initiative is rooted in the growing concern over youth unemployment and limited opportunities for school leavers and graduates across the country.
“I saw so many young people with qualifications but no direction or opportunities,” said Dlamini. “I realized that if we don’t create solutions ourselves, we will continue to wait indefinitely.”
Determined to make a difference, he established the organization to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application. Through mentorship programmes, school outreach initiatives, and entrepreneurship training, Youth Link Eswatini equips young people with skills in financial literacy, business development, and personal growth—tools often missing from formal education systems.
The organization has also taken a strong community focus, supporting vulnerable children with school fees, uniforms, and learning materials. These efforts not only improve access to education but also restore hope among learners who might otherwise drop out due to financial constraints.
Dlamini emphasizes that empowerment, not dependency, is at the core of his mission. By promoting entrepreneurship, he encourages youth to take initiative and create their own income-generating opportunities in a challenging economic environment where formal jobs remain scarce.
“Young people need to understand that they are capable of building something from nothing,” he said. “We want to inspire a mindset that values innovation, resilience, and self-reliance.”
Beneficiaries of the programme say the initiative has helped them gain confidence, clarity, and direction. Some have already begun exploring small business ideas, while others have improved their academic focus through mentorship and guidance.
As Youth Link Eswatini continues to grow, Dlamini remains committed to nurturing a generation that is not only educated, but also equipped with practical skills to thrive. His work reflects a shift towards youth-driven solutions, positioning young people as active contributors to national development and long-term economic resilience.
#YouthEmpowerment #Eswatini #Entrepreneurship #PositiveNews
(Courtesy Pic)
