10 September 2026
82nd anniversary programme
The League marked its 82nd anniversary in North West, including an Anton Lembede Memorial Lecture and anniversary programme.
View recent eventsAfrican National Congress Youth League
Young Lions.
Founded in 1944, the ANC Youth League organises young people and addresses matters affecting youth across education, work, enterprise, skills, culture, community life and public participation.
1944 Founding generation to today
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For young South Africans
Direct routes to the information, opportunities and organisational material most often needed by young people.
Young Lions in action
Organising, learning, participating
Authentic photographs supplied from ANC Youth League activities and organisational life.
September 2026
Recent activity
Recent public activities reflected through official ANC Youth League channels.
24 September 2026
Heritage and sport
Youth and community members took part in a Heritage Day soccer programme in Steinkopf, Namakwa.
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25 September 2026
Community action against GBVF
ANCYL representatives joined community action in eThekwini focused on gender-based violence and femicide.
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Generations of Young Lions
From the founding generation of 1944, through the banning years and the 1991 relaunch, to the elected leadership of the present period.
Anton Lembede
First elected president of the ANC Youth League and a leading contributor to its founding manifesto.
Peter Mokaba
Led the Youth League after its re-establishment in the early 1990s following the unbanning of the ANC.
Collen Malatji
Elected in 2023 and re-elected at the 27th National Congress in December 2025.
Youth Hub
Current practical information
External opportunities are identified by provider and link directly to the responsible institution.
NSFAS 2027 applications
The 2027 application cycle opened on 18 September 2026. Applications are free and are submitted through NSFAS.
Go to NSFASSkills, work and enterprise
Browse pathways covering jobs and careers, training, TVET, entrepreneurship and digital resources.
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