Young people are frequently invited into democratic spaces, yet their voices other carry limited influence. This dialogue explores the gap between participation and real decision-making power, drawing on young people’s lives experiences of representation, tokenism, and exclusion in South Africa’s democracy. Through open, facilitated conversation, participants will reflect on what meaningful youth representation should look like and how democratic spaces can move beyond symbolic inclusion toward shared power and accountability.

Youth Capital is a a youth-led advocacy organisation focused on youth unemployment, access to opportunity, and ensuring young people’s voices are reflected in national decision-making