UNICEF South Africa Volunteer Programme
Join the movement!
Be a changemaker
UNICEF South Africa’s Volunteer Programme is a youth-driven, grassroots initiative that empowers young people to champion children’s rights, drive social change, and leave a lasting impact in their communities. Rooted in civic responsibility and campus culture, our network has expanded to 14 public universities and over 1,600 active volunteers, making it one of the largest youth-led volunteer movements in South Africa.
Our mission
Our mission is to protect and promote the rights of every child by engaging young people in four strategic areas:
- Education – promoting literacy, mentorship, and equitable access to learning opportunities.
- Ending Violence Against Children (EVAC) – advocating for protection, prevention, and stronger reporting pathways.
- Climate Action – mobilising environmental stewardship through sustainability, recycling, and green initiatives.
- Healthy Lifestyles – advancing nutrition, sexual and reproductive health, and mental wellbeing.
Through advocacy, awareness, community engagement, and fundraising, our volunteers are at the forefront of building a better future for children in South Africa while aligning with UNICEF’s global priorities.
Get involved with key initiatives
When you join the UNICEF South Africa Volunteer Programme, you become part of a movement dedicated to creating change. Here’s how you can make a difference:
Fix My Food
Our nutrition-focused campaign educates students and communities about the importance of healthy eating habits. Through interactive workshops, the programme has transformed dietary choices, promoting balanced meals and well-being among young people.
Green Rising: Climate action
Tackle climate change with hands-on initiatives like tree planting, waste management, and environmental education workshops. Our Green Rising programme mobilises youth to lead biodiversity and sustainability efforts, from planting community gardens to promoting renewable energy.
Mental health matters
Mental health is essential for youth well-being. Join our peer-led workshops to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote mental health support across university campuses. Be part of the solution by offering safe spaces for dialogue and emotional support.
Healthy and safe lifestyles
We promote physical well-being through sports events, fitness challenges, and sexual and reproductive health (SRH) workshops. Learn about contraception, safe sex practices, and how to maintain an active, healthy lifestyle. Extend these critical messages beyond campus and into marginalised communities.
Ending violence against children and adolescents
Help us advocate against violence, gender-based violence (GBV), and child protection issues. Participate in campaigns that raise awareness about violence prevention, gender equality, and safety in schools and communities.
Why join?
- Leadership development: Receive training, mentorship, and tools to become an advocate and leader in your community. Gain valuable skills in advocacy, project management, and entrepreneurship.
- Networking opportunities: Connect with like-minded peers and global leaders, engage in partnerships with local and international organisations, and become a voice for change.
- Contribute to global goals: Align your efforts with UNICEF’s mission and global initiatives like Generation Unlimited, working to create a world where every young person is empowered to thrive.
How to join
Be part of our growing volunteer network and contribute to creating meaningful change. Whether you’re a university student or a young leader in your community, your involvement can make a real impact. Check for a local club on your campus, or start one in your university!
Active UNICEF Volunteer Clubs
Public universities
Durban University of Technology (DUT)
Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
North-West University (NWU) – Mahikeng Campus
North-West University (NWU) – Vaal Campus
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) – Ga-Rankuwa Campus
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) – Main Campus
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) – Soshanguve Campus
University of Cape Town (UCT)
University of Johannesburg (UJ)
University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) – Pietermaritzburg (PMB)
University of Pretoria (UP)
University of the Free State (UFS)
University of the Western Cape (UWC)
University of the Witwatersrand (WITS)
Community clubs
Mary Memela Club
Interested in starting a club?
Are you passionate about making a difference for children and youth? Start a UNICEF Volunteer Club at your institution today! Follow the steps below and complete the registration form to get started.
- Step 1: Identify a group of passionate students.
- Step 2: Secure an advisor.
- Step 3: Register your club with UNICEF South Africa by completing the form below.
Also see our complete guide to starting a UNICEF South Africa club on campus and other resources for volunteers.
If you have any queries please contact us at [email protected] or [email protected] for guidance.
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