The #VIPYouthFest ended on a very high note yesterday after three days, which saw our teams in Cape Town and Joburg come together to launch one of the most exciting youth programmes in South Africa.

We have had exciting panels, performances and engaging guests as well as collaborations with Africa Check, Corruption Watch and young people from all over the country who joined us on social media and in person.

Our last day was packed with many thrilling moments and insightful discussions. Despite the cold breeze, the audience turnout was very impressive and they seemed to have enjoyed the free popcorn, cold drink and the chance to engage with other young people.

The day was filled with many surprises, which had the audience glued to their seats in fear of missing out on the action.

Joburg rapper, Sam Turpin, heated up the stage at our Live office in Braamfontein with an energetic performance that left the audience bobbing their heads to his punchy rhymes and dope beats. The audience also jammed to new sounds from Sipho the Gift, who was the surprise act for the day.

Comedian, Nathaniel Davids, from Livity Africa Digify team, brightened up the mood with his funny jokes.

Our panelists for the day discussed entrepreneurship as a possible solution for youth unemployment. The panel included young entrepreneurs and creatives like RHTC owner Frypan, YouthLab co-founder Zama ka Ndlovu and entrepreneur Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane. They shared their stories. From the discussion, we could see that the panelists are displeased with how ineffective government initiatives are in empowering young entrepreneurs.

As if the surprises were not enough for the day, the festival ended off with another surprise performance from “I’d rather go blind” hitmaker, Vusi Nova.

Check out all the highlights of the #VIPYouthFest on Facebook and follow the VIP campaign  @LiveVIPZA

words by Lesley Tshamano

photography by Siya Mkhasibe