The Youth Charter, a global initiative focused on youth empowerment through sports, has issued a powerful call to action at the Sport for Development Finance Investment Forum in Cape Town. Held as part of the Finance In Common Conference, the event brought together leaders from government, the private sector, civil society, and youth organizations to explore innovative financing strategies that maximize the impact of sport on youth development.

Sport as a Catalyst for Social and Economic Growth

Professor Geoff Thompson, Chair of the Youth Charter, emphasized the critical role of sports in driving social development, economic growth, and community cohesion. He called for integrated strategies that leverage cross-sector collaboration to establish Community Campuses—local hubs where young people can access sports programs, education, vocational training, and mentorship opportunities.

“The potential of sport as a tool for social change is immense, but it requires a concerted effort from all sectors,” Thompson stated. “The Youth Charter’s call for collaboration is not just a plea; it’s a roadmap to harness the power of sport to create sustainable opportunities in the country where the late President Mandela inspired the Sport for Development for Peace movement.”

Building Community Campuses: A Shared Responsibility

The Youth Charter’s vision for Community Campuses involves creating safe, inclusive spaces where youth can engage in sports, leadership development, and career training. The initiative aims to unite:

• Governments, to provide policy support and infrastructure
• Private investors, to fund sustainable programs
• NGOs and civil society, to drive grassroots engagement

“We are calling on governments, private investors, and NGOs to unite and invest in this mission and Global Call to Action,” Thompson added. “By fostering partnerships and pooling resources, we can create a more inclusive environment that supports our youth and enables them to achieve their full potential.”

A Platform for Innovative Financing and Best Practices

The Finance In Common Conference served as a key platform for discussing:

• Innovative financing models for sports-based development programs
• Best practices in youth-focused initiatives
• Collaborative approaches to funding and sustainability

The Youth Charter urges all stakeholders to respond to this global call to action, emphasizing that collaboration is key to creating lasting social impact through sports.