By Tanya Vogt, Executive Officer, SAMED

June marks Youth Month in South Africa, an important time for reflection, remembrance and renewed commitment to the future of our country’s young people. This year’s theme, “Skills for the Changing World – Empowering Youth for Meaningful Economic Participation”, resonates strongly with the mission and values of the South African Medical Technology Industry Association (SAMED).

This theme underscores a national imperative to equip young people with the skills and opportunities required to thrive in a rapidly evolving economic and technological landscape. It also reflects a call to action for industry, government and civil society to be part of the solution.

At SAMED, we are proud to partner with the Youth Employment Service (YES) programme, a national initiative that is reshaping employment prospects for young South Africans and redefining what ethical corporate citizenship looks like.

Why the YES Programme Matters to SAMED

  1. Tackling Youth Unemployment
    South Africa’s youth unemployment crisis is well documented. Through YES, SAMED members are helping to create meaningful work opportunities that reduce poverty, promote social stability and drive inclusive economic growth. Employment is more than a job; it is a lifeline, a skill-building platform and a pathway to dignity.
  2. Building Future Talent for MedTech
    As the medical technology industry continues to innovate and evolve, the need for skilled, agile and forward-thinking professionals is greater than ever. Our participation in YES enables us to develop a pipeline of capable young individuals who will shape the future of MedTech in South Africa across engineering, regulatory affairs, sales, manufacturing and more.
  3. Supporting Transformation and Inclusion
    YES is a recognised initiative under the B-BBEE codes, and its impact extends beyond scorecards. It is a powerful mechanism for fostering transformation by empowering young people, especially those from historically disadvantaged backgrounds, to meaningfully and sustainably access the economy. SAMED members who invest in YES are investing in equity and progress.
  4. Demonstrating Leadership and Commitment
    When our member companies step forward to host YES interns, they are not only helping young people enter the world of work; they are also setting a standard for ethical, purpose-driven leadership in the healthcare sector. This is aligned with SAMED’s ongoing efforts to promote integrity, inclusivity and responsible business practices across the MedTech industry.
  5. Creating Scalable, Systemic Impact
    The impact of YES is not confined to individual companies. It has ripple effects across communities, industries and the national healthcare ecosystem. It aligns with SAMED’s broader strategic objectives of shaping policy, enabling partnerships and driving innovation that benefits both patients and the economy.

A Collective Commitment to the Future

As Youth Month draws to a close, we take this opportunity to celebrate the incredible work being done by SAMED members who have partnered with YES. Your efforts are not just changing lives; they are strengthening our industry and building a healthier, more inclusive society.

At SAMED, we are deeply committed to creating real, measurable impact. We encourage more of our members to get involved in the YES programme. Each placement is a chance to change a life, grow a business and uplift a community.

The future of MedTech and the future of South Africa depend on how we empower the next generation today.

Let’s keep saying YES to youth.