Our Story
Phakamani Young Minds Academy (PYMA) began in 2014 with just six learners and a vision to transform lives. PYMA was born out of a deep passion for youth development and a desire to create a safe, supportive space for young people in Freedom Park, Johannesburg.
Recognizing the challenges faced by learners—overcrowded classrooms, lack of academic support and limited access to resources. What began as a small initiative providing homework supervision and exam preparation quickly grew into a holistic afterschool programme offering mentorship, career guidance, and personal development activities.
As the need for support expanded, so did PYMA’s mission. Beyond academic assistance, we now focus on empowering young people beyond school—helping them access post-school opportunities such as tertiary education, learnerships, and employment. For out-of-school youth (18-35 years), we provide work-readiness training, ensuring they are equipped with the skills and knowledge to navigate the job market and build sustainable careers.
From six learners to a thriving network of empowered youth, PYMA continues to be a catalyst for change—nurturing young minds, creating opportunities, and breaking barriers to success.
Values
Vision
To empower a generation of young people with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to thrive, becoming responsible, independent and contribute meaningfully to society.
Mission
We bridge the gap between potential and opportunity by providing holistic educational support, Mentorship and skills development to young people who are eager to learn but lack the necessary resources ensuring they have access to the tools they need to succeed in school, work and life.
Our Purpose
We exist to unlock the potential of youth, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to become self-sustaining individuals who shape their own futures.
Expanding Our Reach, Strengthening Our Impact
We are committed to expanding our impact and creating lasting change. Over the next 5-10 years, we will reach more children and youth, strengthen our programmes and establish a permanent center to serve as a hub for youth development.
Our focus is on scaling our afterschool and work-readiness programmes, integrating digital learning opportunities and building stronger pathways for young people to access tertiary education, learnerships and employment.
