SayPro uses Erasmus+ to empower South African youth through social innovation hackathons that spark creativity and problem-solving. These hackathons bring together diverse young people to develop tech-based and community-driven solutions to pressing social issues. With SayPro’s guidance, participants tackle challenges in education, health, unemployment, and climate change. The events promote collaboration, critical thinking, and leadership in high-energy environments. SayPro ensures that each team is mentored by local and European experts who provide guidance on design thinking and sustainable development. These hackathons transform ideas into action, and SayPro supports winners with seed funding, mentorship, and follow-up to scale their impact.
Erasmus+ enables SayPro to host international hackathons where South African and European youth work side by side. These events foster intercultural learning and collaboration, as participants exchange ideas and apply diverse perspectives to shared problems. SayPro coordinates logistics, mentors, and resources to ensure equitable participation, especially for youth from marginalized communities. SayPro also includes training sessions on innovation, pitching, and entrepreneurship as part of the hackathon experience. These events strengthen global solidarity among young change-makers and inspire local innovation. By connecting youth across borders, SayPro uses Erasmus+ to build networks that last beyond the event, supporting long-term collaboration and innovation.
SayPro ensures that innovation from hackathons translates into real community benefit. SayPro works with local municipalities, schools, and nonprofits to pilot the most promising solutions. Youth gain the opportunity to test their ideas and adapt them to real-world settings. SayPro also trains participants in project management, ensuring they can implement and monitor their solutions effectively. With Erasmus+ funding, SayPro supports mini-grants for social projects born out of hackathons, enabling young innovators to make tangible contributions. These practical outcomes validate the power of youth-led innovation. SayPro fosters an ecosystem where youth see themselves as problem-solvers and leaders in community transformation.
To build momentum, SayPro develops toolkits and guides for running inclusive hackathons, sharing knowledge across schools and youth organizations. SayPro also maintains an online platform where alumni can showcase their projects, network with funders, and collaborate on future events. Erasmus+ supports SayPro in organizing annual national hackathons and participation in global innovation summits. SayPro’s model is inclusive, accessible, and adaptable, ensuring that all youth—regardless of background—can take part. With continued support, SayPro turns South African youth into social innovators who not only dream of change but create it. This Erasmus+ partnership is shaping the future through youth-led innovation.