In honour of Youth Month, the National Institute for Humanities and Social Sciences (NIHSS) proudly presents the Beyond 76 Series: Youth Knowledge in Motion. This series celebrates the bold research, critical thought, and visionary work of Master’s and Doctoral graduates under the age of 35. These dynamic young scholars are reshaping South Africa and the continent through transformative ideas and scholarship. Their work echoes the courage of the youth of 1976 and carries forward a legacy of change, justice, and economic emancipation. Join us as we spotlight the next generation of changemakers in the Humanities and Social Sciences.

1. In 2025, what does Youth Month mean to you — personally, academically, or as a young South African?

As a young South African, youth month means being reminded that the opportunities and access we have today were fought for in order for the current generation to excel and do more especially in the educational space. Furthermore, youth month to me means young people remembering to keep dreaming and to actively pursue their dreams with no fear. Regardless of how big or small the dream is, it is young people doing the work, preparing and ultimately executing their plans to achieve their dreams. In addition, it is young people realising that our past as a country and the traumas that our mothers and fathers endured do not define us nor do they define our destiny instead they serve as motivation to forge ahead and focus on being the best version of themselves even in the midst of adversity.

2. What impact do you hope your NIHSS supported research will have on society or your field?

The impact I hope my research dissertation will have on society is that it will highlight the fact that everyone especially graduates have a place within the labour market and the world. It will also serve to remind recent and upcoming graduates as well as those upskilling themselves that they have a role and purpose to fulfil in societies and the country at large. In addition, it will serve to empower those who have lost hope in themselves, their qualifications and the country by inspiring them to continue to work on their goals as they are deserving of occupying spaces where their skills can be used and voices can be heard. Lastly, it will serve as a reminder that we have come a long way as a country and as a people to a point where we can empower ourselves because we are now exposed to various educational opportunities and other learning opportunities where we can attain the much-needed skills to succeed.