With all the negative news floating around, it’s often a good idea to take the time to check in on the people in South Africa who spend their time and energy making the world a better place.

This time around we’re looking at the Sozo Foundation, a non-profit organisation based in Vrygrond, Cape Town, that creates opportunities through skills and education development for underprivileged youth.

Digicape, South Africa’s largest independent Apple retailer, is committed to improving the education of all South Africans through initiatives like Apple Teacher, so it makes sense that they’d partner with Sozo.

Through education, Sozo is equipping and raising tomorrow’s leaders by transforming the lives of individuals as well as their families.

To get a better sense of what they do, here’s an informative video:

Sozo provides the young people of Vrygrond with the opportunity to learn new skills, build on existing skills and knowledge, and master new trades, empowering them with the tools necessary to generate an income, find a job, and rise above their circumstances.

They do this by running two development programmes in the heart of Vrygrond.

The Sozo Educentre is an after-school tutoring and mentorship programme that provides a safe space for 100 high school learners. The programme is designed to empower learners by equipping them with the skills that they need to succeed.

Sozo Youth Café is a safe, creative and vibrant space for 85 unemployed young people between the ages of 16 to 25. The annual programme teaches valuable life skills, training and vocational skills.

Sozo also helps to prepare these students for the working world by training them in professional interaction. This includes CV crafting and interview techniques. They’re also provided with the opportunity to job shadow professionals in their chosen fields.

To put it simply, they’re doing a sterling job, and making a massive difference in the lives of people in Vrygrond.

If you want to follow Digicape’s example, you can help out at Sozo by signing up to volunteer your time and skills, on their website.

If you want to partner with Sozo, you can email Kate at fundraising@thesozofoundation.org.za.