Changing Lives in South Africa

Young green seedlings sprouting in individual compartments of a brown seedling tray.

Our work

We foster viable entrepreneur opportunities

We help young South Africans from under resourced areas start micro businesses, creating jobs and building resilient, sustainable communities.

Youth unemployment (ages 15 to 24) in South Africa is around 62 percent. (Source: Statistics South Africa’s 2025 Labour Force Survey.) Their future is currently bleak, and we want to change that.

How we do it

We support local experts who can make it happen

Real impact starts with local expertise. That’s why FESA partners with AspireYouth, a trusted South African organization with deep on-the-ground experience and a strong record of empowering small businesses to thrive.

More specifically, we do two things. Provide:

  • Micro-financing to qualified entrepreneurs

  • Support by way of business mentoring and coaching

Learn more

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Why we focus on micro businesses

Our focus is on small businesses – where opportunity and hope are possible

Research predicts that 90% of all new jobs in South Africa by 2030 will be created by small businesses (Source: National Development Plan 2030 - South Africa).

Supporting entrepreneurs strengthens local economies, promotes innovation, and reduces poverty. Employment offers hope and opportunity.