The National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) has partnered with Amapiano DJ duo Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa, also known as Scorpion Kings, to create economic opportunities for 150 young South Africans in the creative industry through the National Youth Service.
“Beyond the 150 participants, the programme includes an exclusive Masterclass walkabout for an additional 10 aspiring young creatives, offering direct mentorship from industry leaders on executing a large-scale event.”
According to the NYDA, the initiative provides hands-on experience in critical roles, including event coordination and front-of-house operations.
“The partnership between the NYDA and Scorpion Kings is important as it amplifies the value created through the Creative and Cultural Industry in the creation of employment for young people and social cohesion.
“It also illustrates the value that the agency has for public-private partnerships in the advancement of all youth in SA. This partnership is a perfect harmony of passion and purpose,” said Kubheka.
While it is known for advancing youth development across all sectors of society and government, the agency acknowledged that the creative arts and entertainment industry is a significant contributor to the national economy, yet accessible entry points for youth remain scarce.
The collaboration builds on the more than 1, 000 jobs already created by the Scorpion Kings event, which primarily employ young people and provide vital first-time work experience.
“Currently under the NYDA, over 4, 000 NYS participants are engaged in the creative sector nationwide. Additionally, through its Young Creatives Programme, a partnership with the
Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, the NYDA is supporting over 330 young artists to develop their talents while preserving South Africa’s rich cultural heritage.
“NYDA is setting a new standard for youth empowerment in the creative economy, strengthening both the cultural and economic landscape. This collaboration is part of a longer-term strategy to create sustainable pathways for youth participation, skills development, and career opportunities within the creative industries through structured NYS programmes.”
The announcement of the partnerships comes before the highly anticipated concert to the next level.
The “Scorpion Kings Live with Friends” concert at Loftus Versfeld Stadium is set to run from afternoon until late into the night, with the addition of a pre-show stage showcasing some of South Africa’s top performers.
Fans will be treated to a day full of music starting from 2pm. The stadium will host sets from new-school artists to old-school artists.
Acts such as DBN Gogo, Blxckie, 25K, Venom, Dlala Thukzin, Dinho, Christos, Vinny Da Vinci, Ba Bethe Gashoazen, and Banques will be giving fans an early taste of the country’s musical range.
This will happen before the main Amapiano event begins.
