Kagiso Kgomane is a passionate youth advocate and the founder of For The Youth By The Youth (FTYBY), a platform dedicated to tackling youth unemployment and connecting young South Africans to meaningful opportunities. His work is deeply personal—born from grief, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to change.
In 2013, Kagiso lost a close friend to suicide linked to mental health challenges brought on by unemployment. This life-altering experience inspired him to ensure that no other young person would suffer in silence or feel hopeless due to lack of opportunities. It became the foundation for FTYBY—a mission driven by compassion and action.
Initially starting on WhatsApp and Facebook, Kagiso shared verified internships, bursaries, scholarships, and learnerships with his peers. By 2018, he formally registered the organization, creating a structured platform to empower South Africa’s youth through information access and mentorship.
Despite financial constraints cutting his own education journey short, Kagiso turned his struggle into purpose. His relentless drive is seen in the way he wakes at 2am to source and share new opportunities—ensuring someone, somewhere, has a chance to rise.
His efforts were recognized nationally when he was named a Mail & Guardian Young South African Finalist in 2022. Today, FTYBY continues to impact thousands of lives, becoming a trusted resource for young people navigating the path to employment and education.
Kagiso’s story is a powerful example of turning pain into purpose—and using lived experience to lead a movement of hope.
