The 2026 Youth Citizens Action Programme (YCAP) National Championships took place at the Protea Hotel Wanderers from 16 to 18 October 2026, bringing together learners from across South Africa to showcase their commitment to creating positive change in their schools and communities. The programme, implemented by Empowervate in partnership with the Department of Basic Education (DBE), empowers young people to become active, responsible citizens and community changemakers.

Ms Amanda Blankfield-Koseff, Founder and CEO of Empowervate, delivered the welcome address, highlighting the importance of empowering young people to identify challenges and develop practical solutions that make a meaningful difference. Through the YCAP, learners gain valuable skills in leadership, teamwork, communication, problem-solving and project management.

Mr Likho Bottoman, Director of Social Cohesion and Equity in Education at the DBE, also addressed participants, emphasising the programme’s role in promoting social cohesion, diversity, inclusion and positive values. He encouraged learners to take ownership of challenges affecting their communities, share their achievements and remain committed to making a difference.

Throughout the championships, learners presented projects addressing pressing social and cultural ills, including Gender-Based Violence (GBV), drug abuse, stigma surrounding HIV and AIDS, and vandalism. The presentations demonstrated the learners willingness to confront and solve challenging issues and develop initiatives that promote safer, more inclusive and supportive school environments.

The Championships also recognised learners’ creativity, presentation skills and project planning through various awards. The winners included:

• Best Budget Award – Junior: Roseneath Primary School, Gauteng
• Best Budget Award – Senior: Dendron Secondary School, Limpopo
• Best Presentation Award – Junior: St Patrick’s Primary School, KwaZulu-Natal
• Best Presentation Award – Senior: Postmasburg High School, Northern Cape
• Best Creative Cultures Award – Senior: Soneike High School, Western Cape
• Best Creative Cultures Award – Junior: Ncihana Primary School, Eastern Cape
• YCAP National winners are: Junior category – Inkonjane Primary School, North West and Senior category – Rainbow Preparatory Academy, Eastern Cape

YCAP 2026 celebrated the power of youth leadership, child and youth agency and most importantly, active citizenry amongst participants.