Amapiano, South Africa’s homegrown music that has taken the world by storm, is now doing more than just filling dance floors; it is also opening doors for young people. In an innovative cooperation, the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) has joined up with Amapiano’s top duo, Scorpion Kings (DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small), to generate practical chances for young people in the creative sector.
Through the National Youth Service, 150 young South Africans will participate in this program and obtain practical experience in the entertainment sector. Participants in the program will receive training in vital skills like production support, front-of-house operations and event organising. A Masterclass walkabout with industry professionals will also provide ten more aspiring creatives with unique mentorship, providing them with crucial insights into the inner workings of South Africa’s thriving music and entertainment scene.
The unique aspect of this collaboration is the way it combines organised youth development with the worldwide appeal of Amapiano, a music that originated in the townships. For many young people, Amapiano is more than just music it’s a way of life, a culture and evidence that artistic expression can lead to successful employment. The genre serves as a link between passion and purpose by tying the NYDA to Scorpion Kings.
NYDA CEO Ndumiso Kubheka emphasised that the significance of the collaboration: “The cooperation between the NYDA and Scorpion Kings multiplies the value provided by the Creative and Cultural Industry in terms of job development for young people and social harmony. It is the perfect balance of passion and purpose.”
The creative sector is one of South Africa’s fastest-growing economic contributors, yet opportunities for young people to enter the industry remain limited. However, Amapiano has emerged as a force for change. Scorpion Kings alone have created over 1,000 jobs through their events, primarily employing young people and offering valuable first-time work experience. This new program builds on that momentum by transforming the energy of the dancefloor into pathways to sustainable lives.
The NYDA currently supports over 4,000 youngsters through its creative activities, including over 330 young artists under the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture’s Young Creatives Programme. This current collaboration with Scorpion Kings is a significant step forward, establishing Amapiano as more than just a cultural export, but also a force for empowerment.
From township beats to worldwide recognition, Amapiano’s story has always been about perseverance, solidarity and creativity. Now, thanks to this collaboration, that same energy is forging brighter futures for South Africa’s youth, demonstrating that the rhythm of Amapiano is capable of pushing change rather than just dancing.
