The YearBeyond Social Innovation Leadership Challenge (SILC) is a key part of the of the YearBeyond (Yebo) programme, designed to empower young leaders to tackle real-world issues through innovative thinking and collaboration. The challenge takes place in the fourth quarter of the year of service, and the challenge encourages YeBoneers—youth participants—to develop creative, impactful solutions to pressing community challenges.
The Challenge For 2024
In 2024, 277 teams submitted their final task, showcasing the enthusiasm and determination of young minds committed to making a difference. The teams needed to present their ideas to address the problem posed to them this year. The problem presented was that 8 out of 10 South African children cannot read for meaning by the age of 10.
Teams of four to eight YeBoneers worked together under a designated team leader. The teams were supported by SILC Champions who provide feedback and help select the top fifty ideas. A semi-final panel of judges narrowed down the field further to the top ten ideas, and a final panel selected the top three, which were announced during the live finale event.
Tackling Literacy Issues
The challenge is deeply rooted in problem-solving, design thinking, and social innovation methodologies, which are woven into the curriculum to equip participants with the skills needed to become effective social innovators. By focusing on collaboration, creative problem-solving, and actionable ideas, the Social Innovation Leadership Challenge cultivates the next generation of leaders who are ready to drive meaningful change in their communities.
We are very proud that one of our Marconi Beam Primary teams made it to the top fifty!
Reflections From The Team
Happiness, a ROGZ Academy YeBoneer from Silverleaf, had the following to share about their experience with SILC:
“At first when SILC was introduced I was very curious because I love challenges. It was not an easy one because in teams, there will always be team dynamics. But I do believe arguing and miscommunications here and there is what made us stronger as a team. SILC has enforced some of our skills such as problem solving, critical thinking, good communication and many more. I’m glad we were introduced to SILC to strengthen our relationship and learn to work as a team.”
Congratulations To Our Youth Team
ROGZ Academy and Boost Africa Foundation are proud of our Youth Team who worked on this Social Innovation Leadership Challenge with intent and have learnt such important work skills to help them in future careers.
