Geordin Hill-Lewis

In a country as diverse and vibrant as South Africa, the future of our economy rests on the shoulders of our youth. South Africa’s youth population represents both an immense asset and a profound challenge. With over 60% of our population being under the age of 35, it is clear that the future is young. But the question that haunts many policymakers, businesses, and communities is: are we doing enough to unlock the potential of this youth demographic? This is where the National Executive Economic Collective (NEXEC) comes into play. The Birth of NEXEC: A Call for Economic Transformation NEXEC was born from a growing concern about the systemic barriers preventing South African youth from fully participating in the economy. Despite numerous interventions, youth unemployment remains staggeringly high, education gaps persist, and entrepreneurial ecosystems are underdeveloped. South Africa is at a crossroads. Our youth are brimming with talent, innovation, and drive, yet many are trapped in cycles of poverty and unemployment. What we needed was more than policy changes or short-term programs; we needed a movement that could unite public and private sectors, catalyze change, and build sustainable systems for youth empowerment. NEXEC was founded on the belief that collaboration across sectors is the key to unlocking the potential of South Africa’s youth. It serves as a national platform where government leaders, private sector champions, educational institutions, and civil society come together to address the most pressing issues affecting young South Africans. Why NEXEC is Different What sets NEXEC apart from other initiatives is its holistic approach to economic development. We don’t just focus on job creation or education; we aim to transform the entire ecosystem that supports youth. NEXEC recognizes that the future of South Africa depends on a multi-faceted approach: 1. Education and Skills Development: We work with government departments and private institutions to ensure that education aligns with market demands, particularly in emerging industries like technology, renewable energy, and digital services. 2. Entrepreneurial Ecosystem: Many of our youth have the drive and ideas to create businesses, but they often lack the resources or networks to bring these ideas to life. NEXEC fosters entrepreneurial support systems through mentorship, funding opportunities, and business development services. 3. Employment Pathways: Traditional pathways to employment are no longer sufficient. NEXEC collaborates with businesses to create modern, agile employment programs that offer opportunities for internships, apprenticeships, and long-term careers. 4. Public-Private Partnerships: True change cannot happen in silos. NEXEC actively brings together government departments, corporate partners, and civil society to create synergies that amplify impact. Through these partnerships, we tackle structural barriers that limit youth participation in the economy.