How to steady your finances

FOUNDATION: START WHILE YOU'RE YOUNG

- Zihaad Israfil

South Africa's youth face a financial reality arguably more complex than any previous generation. They're entering adulthood amid rising living costs and high unemployment rates. For many, the question isn't just how to build financial stability, but also about how to start. Empowering the next generation starts with financial literacy. We need to provide young people with the knowledge and tools to understand money, take control of their financial choices and unlock opportunities they may not realize are within reach.

The financial challenges facing our youth: Youth unemployment remains above 40%, and even those who are employed are often underpaid, under-resourced, and carrying financial burdens far beyond their years. Many are supporting extended families or navigating student debt without clear guidance on budgeting, saving or investing.

At the same time, today's youth are more digitally connected than ever. They're exposed to global markets, cryptocurrency hype and influencers promising quick riches. But without understanding the basics, exposure becomes noise, and confidence can quickly turn to confusion.